When it comes to road safety, visibility saves lives. DOT-approved reflective tape is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep trucks and trailers visible at night and in poor weather. At Heskins, we manufacture and supply a complete range of DOT tapes that meet FMVSS 108 requirements, helping commercial vehicles stay compliant and clearly visible in all conditions.
Our range includes several material types and constructions to suit different surfaces, levels of performance, and operating environments. Understanding these variations will help you choose the best option for your trailer or fleet.
Glass Bead DOT Tape
Glass bead DOT tape is a trusted and cost-effective choice. It uses thousands of microscopic glass spheres to reflect light, producing a bright, wide reflection that’s visible from many angles. This type of tape is ideal for:
- Flat or slightly curved trailers
- Standard commercial vehicles
- Fleets seeking reliable compliance at a lower cost
Glass bead tape offers proven performance and is easy to apply, making it one of the most common solutions in the industry.
Micro-Prismatic DOT Tape
Micro-prismatic DOT tape provides higher reflectivity and longer-distance visibility than glass bead types. It uses precision-engineered prisms to reflect light more efficiently, helping drivers see your vehicle from farther away. Its advantages include:
- Superior brightness in low light or highway conditions
- Excellent weather and UV resistance
- Long-lasting color and performance in harsh environments
This is the best option for long-haul trailers and heavy-duty fleets where visibility and durability are essential.
Sealed (Air-Backed) Prismatic DOT Tape
Sealed prismatic DOT tapes are designed for maximum protection and a cleaner appearance. A sealed surface layer shields the reflective prisms underneath from moisture, dust, and UV exposure. The result is a tape that:
- Stays brighter for longer in outdoor environments
- Resists dirt buildup and surface damage
- Provides a premium, professional look on polished or white trailers
Fleets that value both aesthetics and performance often choose this grade for its clean finish and long-term reliability.
Custom and Pre-Striped Options
Heskins can produce custom DOT tape variations to meet specific needs, including:
- Custom widths and roll lengths
- Pre-striped or perforated rolls for faster installation
- Roadside and curbside orientation versions for easier application
These options help save time during installation, reduce waste, and improve consistency across fleet applications.
Choosing the Right Tape for Your Trailer
The right DOT tape depends on your trailer’s surface and environment:
- Flat or smooth panels: All grades perform well; prismatic provides higher brightness.
- Curved or uneven surfaces: Flexible glass bead or micro-prismatic tapes conform best.
- Textured or painted surfaces: Clean thoroughly before application; glass bead adheres well to coarse coatings.
- Outdoor exposure: Sealed prismatic tape offers the longest service life and resists fading.
No matter which you choose, proper surface preparation and firm application are key to achieving the strongest bond and optimal reflectivity.
Why Choose Heskins DOT Tape
Heskins DOT tapes combine precision engineering with proven performance. Each type offers:
- High retroreflectivity for improved nighttime visibility
- Strong pressure-sensitive adhesive for secure bonding
- Resistance to moisture, dirt, and UV light
- Full FMVSS 108 compliance for peace of mind
Whether you manage a single truck or an entire fleet, Heskins DOT tapes deliver lasting visibility, compliance, and safety on every mile of the road.
