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 mount 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. Part 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 smooth end of material on the other.
Straps work when the hook end of part one 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 plain end of part two feeds into the ratchet (making sure the strap is not 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 pushed 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 take up any slack, but not so much that you damage the load. Then, using the ratcheting handle, pull up and down until the strap is tight enough to start carrying your goods. Experts also advise that you use as many leashes as possible and safe. This will provide additional support during transit.
Once you get 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?
It is not only dangerous to drive a vehicle carrying a heavy load that is not properly secured, but it is also illegal. If you are caught doing it, you could face a huge fine. And if your vehicle with unsecured cargo is involved in an accident, then the punishment could be even more severe. Any cargo that falls from a moving vehicle is not only destructive and costly to the cargo itself, but can also cause a significant amount of damage to other people and property on the road.
Mounting of ratchet straps
Therefore, in order to safely transport goods from your company’s 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 correctly involves a certain amount of strength and physical skill, although 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 based on how much weight they can support when broken. 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 seller 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 tighten the straps properly with the ratcheting mechanism. If you have doubts about whether you have correctly secured the load, do not risk the trip. Find someone else with experience 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 kept 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 belts with a breaking strength rating of 800kg, 1,500kg, 2,000kg, 3,000kg, 5,000kg and 10,000kg.
You should also check that any ratchet strap you buy is made in accordance with relevant safety legislation. Look for the security mark on the packaging, and if you’re not sure, ask a salesperson to double check.
You can also buy straps in different lengths. Again, these will vary by individual manufacturer, but you can usually find straps between 4 and 15m. These will cover the various sizes of trailers, trucks and vans, from a small trailer to a large heavy vehicle.
There is also a selection of ratchet 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, all of which are made from high-quality, durable polyester fabric.
How to load goods correctly
First, you need to evaluate the vehicle to make sure it has the proper eyebolts for the straps and that it has the correct strap ends for a secure hold. You should practice attaching the straps to the eyebolts before loading the load so that you know how they work.
When loading, place items on the truck or trailer strategically, making sure there is minimal space between each item and its eye bolt. This will ensure that the items do not move once they are secure. Do not overtighten the straps, especially if the goods you are transporting are fragile. It may be a good idea to try to cover valuable items with a thick sheet or blankets to ensure 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 or collapse when you release the ratchet. When you release the ratchet, it should come off easily, unless the material was twisted during the assembly process.
How to store ratchet straps
Once you’ve purchased a good quality, solid set of ratchet straps that are suitable for your needs, then it’s 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 you put 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 the belts.
And, while it may be more convenient to toss straps in a pile when not in use, taking a little extra time to sort them will pay dividends the next time you wear them. Unwinding tangled webbing can be a frustrating task. Plus, straps stored safely and neatly won’t pose a safety hazard or trip in your workshop 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 strap on each sock. Zip 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 commercial or simply for personal use, these straps are a welcome addition to any workshop or tool collection. And with proper use and storage, you’ll find uses for your straps for years to come.