With harvest only a few months away, now is the ideal time to give your tipper and tarp system a thorough check-over. Taking care of a few simple maintenance tasks now can help reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly delays when the season is in full swing.
To help you get harvest-ready, we've put together a few simple checks that are well worth doing before the busy season begins:
Check for any tears, worn areas or damaged seams. Small repairs completed now can often prevent much larger (and more expensive) problems during harvest.
Open and close the tarp several times to make sure it operates smoothly and evenly. If it's becoming difficult to operate - or, in the case of a retractable system, isn't retracting properly - it's worth investigating before harvest begins.
The new tarps were manufactured using waterproof materials and incorporated an extended side block, allowing the tarp to sit further down the sides of the trailer for improved weather sealing. The tarps were also fitted waterproof rear flaps, which can be secured during wet weather to create a fully enclosed load when transporting grain.
Inspect ropes, cables, bearings, pulleys and other moving components for signs of wear. Replacing worn parts now can help prevent unexpected breakdowns during the busiest time of year.
Look over the bows, flip-over bars, arms and framework for bends, cracks or loose fasteners. Bent bows or bars can place extra stress on the tarp, causing premature wear and potentially leading to problems during harvest. Keeping the structure in good condition helps your tarp operate reliably and extends its lifespan.
Removing built-up grain, dust and debris helps reduce unnecessary wear and makes it easier to spot any damage that may need attention.
As harvest approaches, demand for repairs and replacement tarps increases significantly. Organising any maintenance early gives you the best chance of having everything ready before the season gets underway.
Having helped Australian growers and transport operators prepare for harvest for many years, we know that a few simple checks now can help prevent costly downtime later.
Need a hand before harvest?
Whether you need a small repair, replacement tarp, spare parts or simply some advice, our team is always happy to help. Organising any maintenance early can help you avoid the pre-harvest rush.
Give us a call or send us an email.
We wish you a safe and successful harvest season!
© 2026 | Ellis & Sons
Website 
Is a product you’re after not listed? Contact us today to discuss a custom solution.
