How to Measure for a Custom Tarpaulin Cover in the Philippines

A custom tarpaulin can only fit properly when the measurements describe the real object, the fixing method and the required overlap. A simple length-by-width figure may be enough for a flat groundsheet, but it is not enough for a machine cover, truck cover, stack cover or three-dimensional enclosure.

This guide explains how Philippine buyers can measure for PE, PVC or canvas tarpaulin covers before requesting a quotation. It also identifies the fabrication details that affect fit, strength, handling and price. For material options and common applications, first review our tarpaulins page.

Finished size and cut size are not the same

The finished size is the usable dimension expected after hems, seams and fabrication. Cut size is the dimension of the material before those operations. Hems consume material, while large covers may require several fabric panels joined by welding or stitching. For this reason, buyers should state that the quotation and production drawing must use the required finished dimensions.

Tarpaulin material can also behave differently depending on construction, temperature and tension. A cover intended to fit equipment closely should therefore include a sensible practical allowance rather than being ordered to the exact metal-to-metal dimension.

How to measure a flat tarpaulin sheet

1. Measure the area to be covered

Measure the maximum length and maximum width of the load, floor area, roof section or material stack. Do not measure only the visible top surface if the sheet needs to extend down the sides. Record dimensions in one unit system and label them clearly, for example 6.0 m long by 4.0 m wide.

2. Add the required side drop or overlap

If the sheet must hang 500 mm down both sides, add 1,000 mm to the top width. Apply the same method to the length if front and rear drops are needed. For a tied cover, extra overlap may be useful so the fixing points are not located directly on a sharp edge.

3. Allow for slope and drainage

A horizontal sheet can collect tropical rainwater and place a very high load on the cover and its supports. Measure along the intended slope where possible, not only the horizontal distance. The installation should direct water away and avoid unsupported pockets where rain can pool.

How to measure a fitted equipment cover

For a basic rectangular cover, record the maximum length, maximum width and total height. Measure every projection, handle, control panel, pipe, wheel or irregular section that changes the outer profile. If the equipment is not rectangular, provide front, side and top sketches with dimensions.

Measure the widest points

Take dimensions from the outermost points rather than the main body alone. A protruding motor, bracket or pipe can prevent an otherwise accurate cover from fitting. For circular equipment, provide the outside diameter and overall height. For tapered shapes, provide both the upper and lower dimensions.

Specify the bottom finish

State whether the cover should finish above the floor, reach the floor or extend underneath the equipment. Then identify the preferred closure: plain hem, eyelets, rope in the hem, elastic, webbing straps or buckles. If the equipment needs ventilation or regular access, mark the required flap or opening on the drawing.

Include a fitting allowance

A fitted tarpaulin should not be so tight that it is difficult to install or places continuous stress on seams. The correct allowance depends on the material, shape, handling method and required fit. Rather than guessing a universal amount, show the actual object dimensions and ask for the proposed finished dimensions to be confirmed before fabrication.

How to measure truck loads and stacked goods

Measure the loaded condition, not only the empty truck bed or pallet. Record the overall loaded length, width and height, including any uneven or projecting cargo. Decide how far the tarpaulin must extend below the load and where ropes or straps can safely attach.

For repeated transport use, the cover must tolerate wind pressure, flapping and frequent handling. Closely spaced reinforced fixing points, protected corners and suitable PVC or heavy-duty PE may be appropriate depending on the route and service conditions. The driver should still inspect the cover and tie-downs before travel and after stops.

Select PE, PVC or canvas after defining the use

PE tarpaulin

PE is lightweight, economical and easy to handle. It can suit temporary construction protection, stored materials, agriculture and general rain covers. Common weights include approximately 120, 150, 180, 200 and 250 GSM. Where sharp edges or strong wind are expected, reinforcement and installation become especially important.

PVC tarpaulin

PVC-coated fabric is well suited to welded seams, fitted shapes, industrial covers and repeated handling. Project grades may range from about 300 GSM to 900 GSM or more. If fire-retardant or anti-static performance is required, identify it separately and request the relevant documentation for the offered material; it should never be assumed from GSM alone.

Canvas tarpaulin

Canvas can be useful when breathability and abrasion resistance are important. Waxed or proofed cotton canvas may be specified by ounce weight, such as 18 oz or 25 oz. It is not identical to fully waterproof PVC, and damp canvas should be dried before storage to reduce mildew risk.

If you are comparing standard dimensions before deciding on a custom cover, see the tarpaulin sizes page. Custom work should still be based on the actual application and finished-size requirements.

Eyelets, hems and reinforcement details

Eyelet spacing should match the expected wind and tie-down arrangement. A specification such as eyelets every 500 mm gives the fabricator a clear requirement, but closer spacing does not replace adequate edge reinforcement. Ask whether the cover includes reinforced hems, reinforced corners, rope in the hem or webbing at high-load points.

Fixings should pull in the intended direction without rubbing the cover against sharp edges. When a rope is forced around a corner, the local load can become much higher than expected. Protective padding or a shaped reinforcement patch may be needed at contact points.

Photos and drawings prevent costly mistakes

Send clear photos from the front, rear, both sides and above where safely possible. Add a simple marked-up sketch showing every dimension and the position of openings, seams, straps and eyelets. Place a known scale or measuring tape in close-up photographs when the feature size is difficult to understand.

For complex covers, request approval of a fabrication drawing before production. The drawing should show the finished dimensions, panel arrangement, closure system, fixing points and any special reinforcement. Confirm corrections in writing so the production specification is unambiguous.

What to include in your quotation request

Provide the finished dimensions, quantity, application, material preference, GSM or ounce weight, colour, expected weather exposure, frequency of use and delivery city or port. Add the required eyelet spacing, hem construction, seams, straps, buckles, access flaps, certificates and packing requirements. Photos and a dimensioned drawing should be attached for fitted covers.

TarpaulinPH accepts enquiries from buyers across the Philippines. Production origin, freight method, delivery scope, lead time and charges are confirmed in the formal quotation for each order. No physical Philippine office is claimed unless a specific verified location is stated on the website.

For additional buyer guides covering material selection, weather, fabrication and maintenance, visit the TarpaulinPH blog.