Transport Chain & Binders

Grade 70 Transport Chain (Logging Chain)

Grade 70 transport chains, also known as logging chains, binder chains, or G70 chains, are high-strength, heat-treated carbon steel chains designed for heavy-duty towing, cargo securement, and transportation applications.

Unlike lower-grade chains, G70 chains are engineered to elongate before breaking, providing a critical visual warning before failure occurs.

Note: 4:1 Safety Factor (Breaking Strength = 4x Working Load Limit)

Because of their widespread use in different industries, Grade 70 chains go by several names:

• 1) Logging Chains (Originally used in forestry applications)
• 2) Transport Chains (Standard for trucking and cargo securement)
• 3) Binder Chains (Used with lever or ratchet binders)
• 4) G70 Chains (Industry shorthand for Grade 70)
• 5) Trucker’s Chains (Commonly used in commercial transport)

Lever Binders (Lever Chain Binders)

A lever binder, also known as a snap binder or lever chain binder, is a heavy-duty load-securing device that uses mechanical leverage to tension transport chains. This type of load binder consists of:

• 1) A forged steel lever handle (which stores kinetic energy when tensioned)
• 2) Two tension hooks (typically clevis grab hooks or slip hooks)
• 3) A central pivot mechanism that multiplies applied force

Common applications include:

• 1) Flatbed trucking (when frequent adjustments are needed)
• 2) Agricultural equipment hauling
• 3) Construction site load management

Ratchet Binders (Ratchet Chain Binders)

A ratchet binder, sometimes called a ratcheting load binder, is a precision load-securement device that uses a gear-and-pawl system to apply controlled tension. Key components include:

• 1) A ratcheting handle (with multiple engagement positions)
• 2) Dual tension hooks (often grade 70 clevis hooks)
• 3) A pawl-and-gear mechanism for incremental tightening
• 4) Safety lock pins (on premium models)

The ratcheting action provides distinct advantages:

✔ Safer operation – minimal stored energy means almost no snapback risk
✔ Greater tension control – allows precise adjustment of chain tightness
✔ Reduced operator effort – mechanical advantage requires less physical force

Grab Hooks

A grab hook is a specialized lifting hook designed to securely grab and hold chains or other rigging components. Unlike other hook types, grab hooks feature an open cradle design that allows them to firmly grip individual chain links without slipping.

Key Features of Grab Hooks:

• 1) Open throat design – Allows easy attachment to chain links
• 2) No safety latch – Provides quick, direct engagement
• 3) Common in towing and transport – Used with grade 70 chains and load binders
• 4) Variants available – Including clevis grab hooks and foundry grab hooks

Slip Hooks

A slip hook is a lifting hook with a safety latch, designed for adjustable and secure load connections. Unlike grab hooks, slip hooks have a closed design with a spring-loaded latch that prevents accidental release.

Key Features of Slip Hooks:

• 1) Safety latch mechanism – Prevents accidental disengagement
• 2) Closed throat design – Offers more security than grab hooks
• 3) One-way action latch – Only opens when manually pressed
• 4) Common in rigging and overhead lifting

Load Binders

Load binders, also known as chain binders, are devices used to tighten and secure transport chains around cargo. They ensure that chains remain taut, preventing loads from shifting during transit.

D.O.T. Compliance

D.O.T. compliance refers to meeting the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation. These standards ensure that cargo securement products, such as chains, binders, and hooks, are safe for use in commercial transportation.

CVSA Specifications

CVSA specifications are standards set by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance for cargo securement. These specifications outline the requirements for working load limits (WLL), chain grades, and binder types to ensure safe and efficient transport.