Ratchet straps are indispensable tools for various cargo transport operations. These include moving heavy items like furniture and cars, as well as transporting multiple boxes from one location to another.

If you haven’t used ratchet straps before, we’ll take a closer look at how to use them correctly and safely, as well as a deeper look at certain situations where they could be very useful. We’ll include tips and tricks from the pros, as well as information on how to fit ratchet straps, how to store them safely, and what materials they’re made from.

Ratchet straps: what to look for

If you’ve never seen or used a ratchet strap before, the basic design consists of two long pieces of sturdy material. Piece number one comes with a hook on one end and a ratchet on the other. Piece number two has a hook on one end and a plain end of material on the other.

Straps work when the hook end of the one piece is attached to a loop or eyebolt, either inside, on the floor, or under the vehicle in which you are transporting goods. At the other end of piece one is the ratchet strap. The smooth end of piece two goes into the ratchet (making sure the strap isn’t twisted, as this can cause problems when it’s time to use the ratchet mechanism), with its hooked end also attached to an eyebolt. in the vehicle. The two straps are brought together until they are tight. The ratcheting mechanism is then used to tighten the straps a bit more, securing the goods to be transported.

To ensure a snug fit, experts say you should pull on the strap by hand to remove any slack, but not so much that you damage your load. Then, using the ratcheting handle, pull up and down until the strap is tight enough to start hauling your goods. Experts also advise that you use as many straps as possible and safely. This will provide additional support during transit.

Once you have experience using ratchet straps, it will be a quick and easy way to transport heavy and unwieldy goods with minimal effort. You’ll also find that high-quality ratchet straps are much safer than using ropes, chains, or other unreliable solutions.

Why do you need ratchet straps?

Not only is it dangerous to drive a vehicle carrying a heavy load that is not properly secured, it is also illegal. If you are caught doing it, you could face a huge fine. And if your vehicle with an unsecured load is involved in an accident, then the punishment could be even more severe. Any load dropped from a moving vehicle is not only destructive and costly to the load itself, but can also cause a significant amount of damage to other people and property on the road.

Mounting of ratchet straps

Therefore, to safely transport goods from your company warehouse, or simply during a move, you need to know how to properly assemble ratchet straps. This knowledge will help you avoid potential damage from poorly insured property, as well as the cost of paying fines.

Securing a ratchet strap properly takes a certain amount of strength and physical skill, though you don’t have to be a superhero. It is also vitally important that you use well-made straps from a reputable brand and supplier. Poorly made straps can provide false confidence, and buying cheap often means buying twice, at best. In the worst case, it can result in an accident.

It is also very important to know that ratchet straps are rated by how much weight they can support when they break. This weight limit will be clearly marked on the product label and in the instructions. If you are unsure, you should seek the advice of a salesperson or product expert. It always pays to err on the side of caution and choose the strongest straps you can to ensure a strong and secure fit.

When securing the straps, make sure they fit completely around the load and that you can properly tighten the straps with the ratchet mechanism. If you have doubts about whether you have correctly secured the cargo, do not risk the trip. Find someone else experienced in using ratchet straps and have them do a quick inspection. You really can’t be too careful. For your own benefit and that of anyone else who may be using the road, you have a duty to ensure that your cargo is held securely in place.

The range of ratchet straps

As we mentioned earlier, ratchet straps are available in a selection of different strengths. Load resistance levels will vary by manufacturer, but you will typically find straps rated at 800kg, 1,500kg, 2,000kg, 3,000kg, 5,000kg and 10,000kg breaking strength.

You should also check that any ratchet strap you buy is made in accordance with the relevant safety legislation. Look for the security mark on the packaging, and if you’re not sure, ask a seller to double check.

You can also buy straps in different lengths. Again, these will vary by individual manufacturer, but you can generally find straps between 4m and 15m. These will cover all sizes of trailers, trucks and vans, from a small trailer to a large heavy duty vehicle.

There is also a selection of ratcheting strap ends to choose from, depending on the type of attachment points you have available. This extensive range includes claw hooks, D-rings, snap hooks, chassis/rave hooks, S-hooks and endless straps, which are made from high-quality, durable polyester fabric.

How to load goods correctly

First, you need to assess the vehicle to make sure it has the proper eyebolts for the straps and that it has the correct strap ends for secure attachment. You should practice attaching the straps to the eyebolts before loading the load so you know how they work.

When loading, strategically place items on the truck or trailer, making sure there is a minimum gap between each item and its eyebolt. This will ensure that the items do not move once they are secured. Do not over-tighten the straps, especially if the goods you are carrying are fragile. It may be a good idea to try to cover valuable items with a sheet or thick blankets to make sure they don’t get damaged during transit.

At the destination, take a few seconds to make sure nothing has moved (if you’ve used the straps correctly you should be fine, but it’s always best to check). The last thing you need is for the load to tip over or collapse when you release the pawl. When you release the ratchet, it should come out easily, unless the material was twisted during the assembly process.

How to store ratchet straps

Once you have purchased a good quality, solid set of ratchet straps that are suitable for your needs, then it is a good idea to take care of them. By using them correctly, as described above, and storing them correctly, you can make your straps last for years.

Before putting them away, you need to make sure your straps are clean and dry. If they are still wet when you fold them, this can damage the material. Preventing mold and mildew buildup will help extend the life of your belts.

And, while it may be more convenient to toss the straps in a pile when they’re not in use, taking a little extra time to sort them out will pay dividends the next time you use them. Unwinding tangled straps can be a frustrating task. Plus, straps stored safely and neatly won’t present a safety hazard or tripping hazard in your shop or garage.

Some people prefer to use a bag for storage, with specialized versions available. Another great way to store them is in old socks, with a strip in each sock. Cable ties are also useful, as are rubber bands.

With a good quality ratchet strap set, you can secure and move all kinds of objects. Whether on a commercial level or just for personal use, these straps are a nice addition to any workshop or tool collection. And with the right use and storage, you’ll find uses for your straps for years to come.