Provided herein is an auto locking mechanism for use with a flat bed and a sliding tarpaulin system. The auto locking mechanism comprises a stationary guide having a longitudinal axis, where the stationary guide is securable to the flat bed between the flat bed and the sliding tarpaulin system, and a mobile component slidably coupled to the stationary guide along the longitudinal axis. The auto locking mechanism also includes an actuator that is operatively coupled to the mobile component. The actuator is adapted to impart motion to the mobile component relative to the stationary guide. The auto locking mechanism further includes an engagement arm secured to the mobile component for engagement with the sliding tarpaulin system. Movement imparted on the mobile component by the actuator slides the mobile component and the engagement arm relative to the stationary guide, thereby moving the sliding tarpaulin system relative to the flat bed.