Ratchet Straps

Types of Ratchet Straps

Ratchet straps come in various sizes, styles, and configurations to suit different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

By Width

• 1-Inch Ratchet Straps: Ideal for light-duty applications like securing ATVs, motorcycles, and small loads. These straps are lightweight and easy to store.
• 2-Inch Ratchet Straps: The most popular size for everyday use, perfect for hauling vehicles, furniture, and medium-sized cargo.
• 3-Inch Ratchet Straps: Designed for heavy-duty applications, commonly used in flatbed trucking for oversized or heavy loads.
• 4-Inch Ratchet Straps: Built for the toughest jobs, these straps are used in professional trucking to secure massive or oddly shaped cargo.

By End Fittings

• Flat Hooks: Perfect for flatbed trailers, these hooks latch securely onto rub rails.
• J Hooks: Versatile and easy to use, ideal for connecting to D-rings or other tie-down points.
• S Hooks: Great for light-duty applications, often used with ATVs and motorcycles.
• Snap Hooks: Quick and easy to attach, these hooks are popular for general-purpose use.
• Chain Extensions: Added for extra strength and flexibility, commonly used in heavy-duty applications.

By Application

• E-Track Ratchet Straps: Designed for use with E-track rail systems in trailers and moving vans.
• Endless Ratchet Straps: Loop-style straps that provide continuous tension, ideal for securing irregularly shaped loads.
• Wheel Straps: Specifically designed for securing vehicle wheels during transport.

1. Ratchet Mechanism:
   The core component of a ratchet strap that allows you to tighten and secure the webbing. It consists of a handle, spool, and release lever, making it easy to apply tension with minimal effort.
   
   
2. Webbing:
   The durable polyester or nylon fabric used in ratchet straps to secure cargo. Polyester webbing is preferred for its high strength-to-stretch ratio, resistance to UV rays, and moisture resistance.
   
   
3. Working Load Limit (WLL):
   The maximum weight a ratchet strap can safely secure. It is calculated as one-third of the strap’s breaking strength, ensuring a safety margin for sudden stops, shifts, or other dynamic forces during transport.
   
   
4. Breaking Strength (BS):
   The maximum force a ratchet strap can withstand before failing. This is a critical factor in determining the strap’s overall durability and suitability for heavy-duty applications.
   
   
5. End Fittings:
   The hardware attached to the ends of a ratchet strap, such as hooks, chains, or rings. These determine how the strap connects to anchor points and are available in various styles, including flat hooks, J-hooks, S-hooks, and snap hooks.
   
   
6. Endless Ratchet Straps:
   Loop-style ratchet straps or Tie-Down Ratchet Straps with No End Fittings - that provide continuous tension. These are ideal for securing irregularly shaped loads and are often used in conjunction with other tie-down methods.
   
   
7. Heavy-Duty Ratchet Straps: 
   Ratchet straps designed for securing extremely heavy or oversized loads. These straps feature reinforced webbing, heavy-duty hardware, and higher breaking strengths to handle the toughest jobs. Typically Ratchet Straps with 2-Inch Wide - 4-Inch Wide Webbing
   
   
8. Light-Duty Ratchet Straps: 
   Typically for 1" Wide Ratchet straps -  designed for smaller, lighter loads such as ATVs, motorcycles, or household items. These straps are easier to handle and store but are not suitable for heavy-duty applications.
   
   
9. Custom Ratchet Straps: 
   Ratchet straps made to order with specific lengths, colors, or hardware configurations. These are ideal for unique cargo securement needs or branding purposes.