Safe, simple, fast – trailer sheeting systems have got you covered
21st July 2025
The days of manual rollover tarpaulins that only get used in the event of an impromptu rain shower seem long gone for those travelling on the public highway. Now, with uncovered loads attracting the attention of the authorities, farmers are looking to install automatic sheeting systems to speed up the process and keep operators safely within the tractor.
Colin Bartram, business development manager of automatic sheeting system specialists Shur-Co UK, has explained how farmers can keep themselves safe and compliant.
Colin told Farmers Guide a little of the backstory behind the company: “Shur-Co UK has been supplying the UK market for nearly 30 years with automatic sheeting systems to the construction tipper market, and we remain market leader to this day with an estimated 20,000 sheeting systems in service and many hundreds entering the market each year.”
He added that the agricultural side of the business started some years later with specialist industries such as poultry litter companies and carcass disposal vehicles (following the foot-and-mouth crisis) and grew year on year to include silage waggons, potato and sugar beet trailers, dumpers and more.
“What we are seeing now, however, is a widespread enforcement by the DVSA of the Road Traffic Act, and this is driving a widespread retrofitting of sheeting systems onto farm trailers of all kinds,” Colin added.
What sheeting systems are available?
For farmers looking for a simple front-to-rear flip net style system, the Agri-Flip kit is available off the shelf at Shur-Co in both hydraulic and 12V electric options.
“This system is our most popular currently, as it allows farmers to purchase a kit with full instructions and install the equipment themselves relatively easily,” said Colin.
“The system is either operated via our Bluetooth Smart3 remote control for electric or via the tractor switch if hydraulic. Reliable spring-loaded arms power a steel framework up and over the load, and the tarp motor spool opens the cover.
“We also pleat the tarp to ensure it hugs the load and allows the motor to pull it into the trailer. Shur-Co UK ensures that our systems are supplied with overload protection as standard, whether that be in the form of a relay box for 12V electric or flow restrictors/controls for hydraulic.”
The company also offers a side to side rollover option for those who require a waterproof cover with its Agri-Hydroclear system from Dawbarn (part of the Shur-Co Group).
It uses straps and hydraulic motors to reliably cover/uncover your load using just two quick connectors from the tractor and even an electric cable-driven front-to-rear bow slide system in the form of the Shur-Trak that keeps the tailgate free for tipping high and bulky loads.
How quickly does an automatic system cover the trailer?
Sheeting systems are not only safer, but also quicker. At the push of a button, you can cover your load in around 20 seconds, which, when looked at alongside manual covering, would save around five to 10 minutes.
It is also worth noting that covered trailers are proven to reduce drag, saving on diesel costs for those farmers travelling longer distances.
How do I get a sheeting system installed?
Although the Agri-Flip is supplied in a fully adjustable kit with instructions (the only item Shur-Co do not supply as standard is hydraulic hoses), Shur-Co UK have an on-site installation team and an enviable dealer network that can be relied upon for installation and support.
An Agri-Flip installation is usually complete the same day, and the team will often install multiple units during a site visit.
Shur-Co UK also have installation workshops in Rochester, Kent, and Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, available for the full range of fitting services.
Do you need a bespoke tarpaulin? Do you need a cover for your trailer or hopper? Any size or shape – call Shur-Co UK today: 01634 862363 or visit the Shur-Co UK website.
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