How Ratchet Straps Help to Secure Your Cargo

There may be times when you need to keep a heavy or oversized load secure. Typically, this occurs when you have tools, equipment, and other belongings in the back of a truck. Improperly securing these items could result in damage to the items themselves. Worse, you or someone else could suffer severe injuries. 

Cargo ratchet straps are available to prevent these issues from happening. It’s helpful to understand what these devices do, how they work, and why they are useful. 

What Cargo Ratchet Straps Are Made Of

When it comes to cargo control equipment, you need something durable and strong. The device must stand up to repetitive use. It must also be able to function well under difficult environmental conditions, including poor weather. 

Usually, these straps are made of polyester, but you can also find these made from nylon. Polyester is popular because the material is both flexible and strong. In addition, it effectively resists mildew and mold. It will also continue to function well after exposure to the sun. 

Size of Equipment Tie-Down Straps

Choosing the right size of tie-down straps for the job is important. When you select straps with the proper width, they can firmly hold the items in place. This is why keeping an eye on the working load limit when choosing a tie-down strap is important. The working load limit will tell you how much weight the strap can handle. Ignoring these ratings can cause equipment damage and bodily injuries. 

To determine the weight limit, you can follow a simple formula. First, take the break strength, which is the point at which the strap will break. Divide this number by three, and you will have the lowest-rated strap you should use. 

The width of cargo ratchet straps is normally between 1 and 4 inches. Be mindful of the size you are using, though. For example, a 1-inch strap is best for lighter work and loads of up to 1,000 pounds. If you have a 2-inch strap, the weight limit is up to 3,333 pounds. For the heaviest-duty tasks, you should use 3- or 4-inch straps. With 4-inch straps, you can secure loads of more than 5,400 pounds. 

Strap Hardware

The straps themselves are not the only components you need to be aware of. Choosing the right cargo supplies includes having reliable hardware. You will find some end fittings that are compatible with E-track and L-track. Additionally, there are chain ends and wire hooks too. The type of attachment points you are working with should determine the end hardware you use. For instance, if you are tying down items in a narrow space, a wire hook is the best option. You may also have E-track or L-track in your flatbed truck. If this is the case, be mindful of choosing the right hardware to meet these needs. 

Type of Assembly

There are either full or endless assembly types with equipment tie-down straps. As for full assembly, there is an end fitting along with a ratchet on one end. The other end has an end without a fixture as well as a fitting. They will thread together, making the tie-down. Usually, the full assembly is what most suppliers offer and recommend. This type offers more flexibility and works well with many applications. 

However, if you need to bundle a lot of items together, an endless assembly may be a better choice. It only has a single strap with both fixture-less and ratchet ends. All you need to do is send the fixture-less end through the mandrel, which will make a loop. You then ratchet it to secure it firmly. 

How Many Straps Should You Use

You can have great success using cargo control equipment, but you need to use the correct number of straps. This will ensure the safe and successful transport of the items you’re hauling. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set guidelines on the minimum number of straps you need according to the weight you are tying down. If you have items no more than 5 feet long and 1,100 pounds in weight, you will only need one tie-down. This increases to two die-downs if items weigh more than 1,100 but are no more than 5 feet long. 

However, if your materials are longer than 10 feet and are blocked or braced, you need a different solution. In this case, you may need one tie-down every 10 feet. 

Securing Your Load

Now that you understand the design and requirements of cargo ratchet straps, you can put the devices into action. The first method is to attach the tie-down to the vehicle. You will then use the second attachment point on the cargo. Or, you can pass the tie-downs through or around the cargo and then attach them to the vehicle again. You can also attach the tie-downs to the vehicle, pass them over the cargo, and then attach them to the vehicle. 

Threading the straps is easy. First, open the handle and then insert the loose end into the mandrel. Then, double it back over and pull the strap through the slot. You will then pull the strap to get rid of any remaining slack. To get the tension you need, crank the ratchet. You’ll want to make sure the strap is even with the other strap. Also, don’t forget to lock the handle. 

Making Tough Work a Lot Easier

By using cargo tie down straps, you can safely secure even the biggest loads. To look at the available straps and purchase some, call us today.