Introduction
PE tarpaulins, also known as polyethylene tarpaulins, are widely used across various industries due to their waterproof, lightweight, UV-resistant, and cost-effective properties. Whether for agriculture, construction, transportation, or emergency relief, PE tarpaulins offer flexible coverage solutions. Understanding the common sizes of PE tarpaulins is essential for wholesalers, importers, and end-users to ensure proper usage and reduce material waste.
This article explores the commonly available sizes of PE tarpaulins in the global market, industry-specific size preferences, and customization options. It also provides insight into the production standards and considerations for selecting the right tarpaulin size based on application.
Overview of PE Tarpaulins
PE tarpaulins are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric laminated with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) on both sides. They are lightweight, flexible, waterproof, and UV-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor applications. Common uses include:
- Covering goods in transportation
- Temporary shelter or emergency tents
- Agriculture ground covers
- Construction site protection
- Boat and vehicle covers
PE tarpaulins come in a variety of sizes, thicknesses (measured in GSM – grams per square meter), colors, and eyelet configurations.
Standard Sizes of PE Tarpaulins
2.1 Metric Sizes
PE tarpaulins are often produced in metric dimensions. Here are some standard sizes used internationally:
| Size (Meters) | Approximate Area | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 2 x 3 m | 6 m² | Household, small equipment cover |
| 3 x 4 m | 12 m² | Garden, camping, outdoor tools |
| 4 x 5 m | 20 m² | Small boats, machinery, temporary roofs |
| 5 x 6 m | 30 m² | Vehicle cover, small warehouse roofs |
| 6 x 8 m | 48 m² | Construction, tents, large object covers |
| 8 x 10 m | 80 m² | Agricultural storage, shelters |
| 10 x 12 m | 120 m² | Industrial and commercial use |
| 12 x 15 m | 180 m² | Large-scale logistics, construction sites |
| 15 x 20 m | 300 m² | Bulk cargo cover, large-area shelters |
2.2 Imperial Sizes
In markets like the USA and UK, sizes are often specified in feet:
| Size (Feet) | Approximate Metric Size | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 6′ x 8′ | 1.8 x 2.4 m | Personal use, backyard |
| 10′ x 12′ | 3 x 3.6 m | Gardening, tools |
| 12′ x 16′ | 3.6 x 4.8 m | Car, furniture covers |
| 16′ x 20′ | 4.8 x 6 m | Tents, truck covers |
| 20′ x 30′ | 6 x 9 m | Industrial |
| 30′ x 50′ | 9 x 15 m | Agriculture, relief work |
| 40′ x 60′ | 12 x 18 m | Large warehouses |
Note: Finished sizes may be slightly smaller due to hemming and heat sealing during manufacturing, usually by 10-15 cm.
Thickness and GSM Range
Size alone is not sufficient; thickness matters. PE tarpaulins are classified by GSM (grams per square meter). Common specifications:
- Light-duty: 70 – 90 GSM
- Medium-duty: 100 – 150 GSM
- Heavy-duty: 180 – 300 GSM
- Extra heavy-duty: 300+ GSM
A thicker tarpaulin is generally more durable and suitable for large-area coverage and harsh environments.
Industry-Specific Size Requirements
4.1 Agriculture
Farmers use PE tarpaulins to protect crops, hay bales, or cover soil. Common sizes include:
- 6 x 8 m
- 8 x 10 m
- 10 x 12 m
These sizes offer adequate ground coverage and are easy to maneuver.
4.2 Construction
Construction companies need tarps for scaffolding, cement curing, and machinery cover. Preferred sizes are:
- 12 x 15 m
- 15 x 20 m
- 20 x 30 m
They often require reinforced corners and eyelets every 1 meter.
4.3 Transportation & Logistics
Truck covers must match standard truck bed dimensions:
- Small trucks: 2 x 3 m or 3 x 4 m
- Medium trucks: 4 x 6 m or 5 x 8 m
- Large trucks: 10 x 12 m or custom sizes like 8 x 18 m
These tarps are often UV-resistant and come with double-stitched edges for durability.
4.4 Emergency Relief
NGOs and government agencies stock tarps for disaster response:
- 4 x 6 m and 6 x 8 m are common emergency shelter sizes
- UNHCR often uses tarps of 4 x 5 m with 200 GSM minimum
4.5 Retail & Household
For retail or hardware store packaging, small sizes like:
- 2 x 3 m
- 3 x 4 m
- 4 x 5 m
are widely distributed, folded and packaged with color labels.
Custom Sizes and Manufacturing Flexibility
Many suppliers offer custom sizes to meet specific project or client needs. Large rolls (e.g., 2 m x 100 m) can be cut and sealed into desired dimensions.
Custom options include:
- Special sizes like 18 x 24 m, 20 x 40 m
- Eyelet spacing (every 50 cm / 1 m)
- Reinforced rope in hem
- Corner reinforcements
- UV or fire-retardant treatment
MOQ for Custom Sizes:
- Often starts at 1000 pieces or 1 ton per specification
- Lead time: 10-20 days depending on complexity
PE Tarpaulin Roll Sizes
For bulk users or secondary converters, rolls are available:
- Width: 1.5 m, 2 m, 3 m
- Length: 50 m, 100 m, or customized
- Thickness: 80 – 300 GSM
Rolls can be processed into sheets, bags, or tents based on demand.
Packaging and Shipping Dimensions
PE tarpaulins are folded, baled, or packed in cartons:
| Tarp Size (m) | Folded Size | Carton Size (approx.) | Units per 20′ Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 x 4 m | 40 x 40 x 6 cm | 40 x 40 x 20 cm (4 pcs) | 7,000–8,000 pcs |
| 6 x 8 m | 45 x 60 x 12 cm | 45 x 60 x 25 cm (2 pcs) | 4,000–5,000 pcs |
| 10 x 12 m | 60 x 75 x 15 cm | 60 x 75 x 30 cm (2 pcs) | 2,500–3,000 pcs |
Carton customization is available for OEM/ODM clients with logo printing.
Choosing the Right Size: Key Considerations
When selecting PE tarpaulin sizes, consider:
- Application area: Measure the length, width, and necessary coverage margin
- Weather conditions: Use larger, thicker tarps in storm-prone areas
- Ease of handling: Avoid overly large tarps if frequent setup/removal is needed
- Weight vs flexibility: Larger sizes become heavier and harder to fold
Market Trends and Regional Preferences
Asia-Pacific
- Metric sizes dominate
- Bulk agricultural and logistics use
- Popular sizes: 4 x 6 m, 6 x 8 m, 10 x 12 m
Europe
- Strict quality standards (e.g., REACH, UV-resistant)
- Custom sizes preferred for construction
- Popular sizes: 5 x 8 m, 10 x 15 m
North America
- Imperial sizes dominate
- Retail focus for home and camping
- Popular sizes: 10′ x 12′, 16′ x 20′, 20′ x 30′
Middle East & Africa
- Relief applications
- UN/NGO-standard tarps in 4 x 6 m or 6 x 8 m sizes
- Heavy-duty preferred due to sun exposure
Conclusion
PE tarpaulins come in a wide range of sizes to serve different applications, from household use to industrial projects and disaster relief. Understanding the common sizes and selecting the right specifications can significantly improve application efficiency and durability.
Whether you’re a wholesaler looking to stock standard items or a buyer sourcing custom-size PE tarps for a specific need, being familiar with size variations, usage trends, and regional preferences is crucial.
As a professional manufacturer and supplier, offering a wide range of standard and customized PE tarpaulins can help you stay competitive and meet the diverse demands of your clients.
