Abstract: An improved overhead covering device is provided for transportable open top cargo compartments of rectangular configuration. The covering device consists of a flexible cover, the underside of which has a number of parallel reinforcing slats adapted to slidably engage channels associated with the side walls of the cargo compartment. A drum, driven by a motor, enables the cover to be wound up for storage within a housing. The same motor pulls a cable which travels about a pulley wheel at the end of the cargo compartment and deploys the cover from the housing.