What Are Poly Tarps Used For?
Poly tarps (polyethylene tarps) are versatile protective covers used across industries to safeguard goods from environmental damage. Common applications include:
- Warehouse storage: Cover pallets, equipment, and inventory to prevent dust buildup
- Construction sites: Protect materials and tools from moisture and debris
- Manufacturing: Shield machinery during downtime or maintenance
- Agriculture: Cover feed, hay bales, and equipment
- Shipping & logistics: Additional moisture protection for freight
Low Density vs. High Density Poly Tarps
Our poly tarps are made from low density polyethylene (LDPE), which offers:
- Flexibility: Conforms easily to irregular shapes
- Tear resistance: More durable than high density alternatives for covering applications
- Moisture barrier: Excellent waterproof properties
- Food-safe: FDA compliant for use near food products and packaging materials
How to Choose the Right Poly Tarp Size & Gauge
Size: Measure the item you need to cover and add extra on all sides for complete protection. For pallets, standard sizes work well. For machinery or custom applications, consider ordering larger tarps that can be folded or trimmed.
Gauge (thickness): Thicker gauges provide greater durability and puncture resistance. Consider:
- Light duty (1-2 mil): Temporary dust covers, short-term storage
- Medium duty (3-4 mil): General warehouse use, pallet covering
- Heavy duty (6+ mil): Long-term outdoor storage, construction sites
Poly Tarps vs. Canvas Tarps: Which Is Better?
While canvas tarps are breathable and reusable, poly tarps excel at moisture protection and cost-effectiveness:
| Feature |
Poly Tarps |
Canvas Tarps |
| Waterproof |
✓ Excellent |
✗ Not waterproof (unless treated) |
| Cost |
✓ Low cost |
✗ Higher cost |
| Weight |
✓ Lightweight |
✗ Heavy |
| Durability |
Good (disposable) |
✓ Excellent (reusable) |
For single-use or short-term protection, poly tarps are the cost-effective choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Poly Tarps
What is a poly tarp?A poly tarp is a protective cover made from polyethylene plastic film, used to shield pallets, machinery, inventory, and building materials from dust and moisture. Prism Pak's poly tarps are low density polyethylene (LDPE), which is flexible enough to conform to irregular shapes, inherently waterproof, and FDA compliant for use around food. Are poly tarps waterproof?Yes. Low density polyethylene is inherently waterproof — it does not absorb water and needs no coating or treatment — which makes poly tarps a reliable moisture barrier for storage and transport. What thickness poly tarp do I need?Use 1-2 mil for temporary dust covers and short-term indoor storage, 3-4 mil for general warehouse use and pallet covering, and 6 mil or heavier for long-term storage, construction sites, and anywhere the tarp may be dragged over sharp edges. Thicker gauges resist punctures and tearing but cost more and are less flexible. Are poly tarps food safe?Yes. Our poly tarps are made from FDA-compliant low density polyethylene, so they can be used in food packaging, food processing, and food warehousing environments where the cover may contact product or food-contact surfaces. Can poly tarps be used outdoors?Yes, but untreated polyethylene degrades under sustained UV exposure. Poly tarps work well for outdoor jobs measured in weeks to a few months; for exposure beyond roughly six months, choose a UV-stabilized tarp or a canvas alternative, and step up to a heavier 6+ mil gauge for wind and abrasion. Poly tarps vs. canvas tarps — which is better?Poly tarps win on waterproofing, weight, and cost; canvas wins on breathability and long-term reuse. Choose poly when the job is single-use or short-term moisture and dust protection, and canvas when you need a breathable cover you will reuse for years. What sizes do poly tarps come in?We stock a range of standard sizes, from small equipment covers up to large tarps sized for covering loaded pallets and bulk storage. Measure the item and add extra on every side so the tarp drapes past the base; oversized tarps can be folded or trimmed. Call 1-800-548-4568 for custom sizes. Who uses poly tarps?Warehouses and distribution centers covering pallets and inventory, construction contractors protecting materials on site, manufacturers shielding machinery during downtime and maintenance, farms covering feed and equipment, and shipping and logistics operations adding moisture protection to freight. How do I dispose of or recycle used poly tarps?Clean, dry poly tarps are LDPE (#4) plastic film and are accepted by many film recycling programs and store drop-off bins. Check with your local recycling center for LDPE film acceptance; tarps contaminated with dirt, paint, or chemicals generally must go in the trash. Order Poly Tarps Wholesale from Prism Pak
Prism Pak has been a trusted supplier of packaging materials since 1976. We offer:
- Wholesale pricing on bulk orders
- Fast shipping from our Pennsylvania warehouse
- Quality products from trusted manufacturers like LK Packaging
- Expert support to help you choose the right products
Browse our poly tarps above or call us at 1-800-548-4568 for assistance with your order.
Related products: Poly Bags | Pallet Covers | Furniture Covers | Poly Tubing
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