Top Tips for Properly Using Ratchet Tie Down Straps for Safe Transportation

Ratchet tie down straps are vital for securing cargo during transportation. But, each year, these straps become damaged by poor storage and improper use.

For the purpose of securing a load the hook end of the strap needs to be secured to an anchor point on your truck or trailer bed. To tighten the strap you have to then rotate the ratchet handle in a circular motion.

Instructions

If you’re an OTR trucker, professional mover, or just secure cargo on your pickup using flatbed trailers or moving van ratchet straps is an essential item to have in your toolbox. They are unbeatable in security and strength, and can be used to avoid shifting of loads during transit.

A ratchet belt is a webbing strap that is fitted with tie-down hardware. The hardware has fittings at the ends that permit the strap to be attached to anchor points wrap over or around cargo or equipment and also a method of tightening and locking into place.

Once you’re ready for using your ratchet strap, you must first let it open to its fully flat position. In order to unlock the ratchet strap, first press the release lever.

Open and close the ratchet until the strap feels secured, however, it shouldn’t be too tight. You’ll know if you overtightened the strap by putting your finger between the strap and the object that is being secured. If you are happy with the outcome, turn the ratchet back into it’s closed position. Press it until it snaps.

Securing Cargo

Whether hauling ATVs on a trailer or lumber on a flatbed truck there is one common goal to ensure the cargo is secured in order to keep it from moving in transit. The best method for accomplishing this is to use the right ratchet straps designed to handle the weight. Calculate the maximum workload of a ratchet strap by divising its strength in breaking by three.

Set each end of the tie-down straps into anchor points such as rails, e-track or other secure anchor points. Then take the free end of the strap through the wide slot on the ratchet mandrel. Make sure the free end of the strap is not too long, as it could block the ratchet while tightening.

Once the free end of the strap is in place, pump the ratchet handle to remove the excess slack, and then begin tightening it. Make sure to keep your finger on the ratchet handle to know when you’re reaching the working load limit and have to stop. Be cautious not to tighten too much the strap, since this could cause damage to the cargo as well as result in the ratchet breaking.

Proper Use

Ratchet straps are a must-have flatbed trailer accessory that is designed for high-end cargo securement. It’s simple to use the straps in a wrong way, which can compromise the load and the ratchet.

Check the webbing of the ratchet assembly as well as the ratchet handle for damage prior to making use of it. Apply WD-40 or dry silicone spray to the handles of the ratchet to make them more comfortable.

Then you can then thread the free end of your ratchet through the open slot on the mandrel, making sure that there is no excess tension in the webbing. When the webbing is threaded, you’ll be able to close and flip the handle of your cao chang hang ratchet to secure it around the load.

Repeat the process until you have reached the desired tension. In excess tension can cause damage to your cargo as well as the ratchet system. Make sure to use a ratchet strap with the correct end-fittings such as wire hooks, grab hooks, flat hooks chains and S-hooks. When storing your ratchet rope ensure it is kept out of the direct sunlight since the sun’s UV rays can alter the quality of synthetic webbing.

Tie-down Strap Safety Tips

It is crucial to inspect ratchet belts for signs of wear and damage regularly, just as you would with any other piece of equipment or tool. Moisture is a huge problem for ratchet straps, as it can cause mildew and mold as well as affect the polyester tie-down webbing that these straps are made from.

A ratchet belt fading in color can also be a sign of degradation. Exposure to sunlight can also result in webbing being weaker due to UV radiation It is recommended to store these straps in areas away from sunlight.

Lubricating ratchets straps is a excellent idea. This will allow the hardware to move smoothly and prevent corrosion. Use only a silicone spray that’s dry. Solvents such as WD-40 can cause damage to the webbing when they come in contact with the webbing.

Ratchet Strap Tightening Guide

Making sure your ratchet belts are maintained properly is the best method to be sure they work correctly and last a long time. Regular cleaning and lubrication help to keep your ratchet straps operating in good operating condition. Keep them in a place that is free of moisture and free of sharp edges or other objects that could cause harm.

There are numerous alternatives when it comes down to ratchets straps. You can select depending on your security requirements. There are numerous hooks, etrack fittings (also known as e-tracks) and flat hooks and wire hooks. Choosing the right end fitting can help keep your ratchet straps in good condition and secured while you are out and about.

When you are choosing ratchet straps, look for ones that have an easily-read working load limit tag the straps. It is against the law in multiple states to utilize a ratchet strap that does not have one and it could expose you to the risk of being charged fines or even worse being fired from your trucking position due to of it. Also, be sure to pick a high-quality the ratchet strap has been constructed to be durable enough to hold the load it is rated for.