Ratchet straps are must-have tools for various cargo hauling 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 more in-depth 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 of.
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 assembly on the other. Piece number two has a hook on one end and a plain end of material on the other.
The straps work when the hook end of part one is attached to a loop or eye bolt, either inside, on the floor, or under the vehicle in which you are transporting goods. At the other end of part one is the ratchet strap. The smooth end of piece two goes into the ratchet (making sure the strap is not twisted as this can cause problems when it is time to use the ratchet mechanism), with its hook end also attached to a bolt eye on the vehicle. The two straps are pulled together until snug. The ratchet mechanism is then used to tighten the straps to an additional degree, securing the merchandise to be transported.
To ensure a perfect fit, experts say you should pull the strap firmly by hand to remove any slack, but not so tight that it causes damage to the load. Then, using the ratchet 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 will also see 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, but it is also illegal. If you are caught doing it, you could face a large fine. And if your vehicle with an uninsured cargo is involved in an accident, then the punishment could be even more severe. Any load that falls from a moving vehicle is not only destructive and costly to the load itself, but it can also cause a significant amount of damage to other people and property on the road.
Assembling ratchet straps
Therefore, to safely transport goods from your company’s warehouse, or just during a move, you need to know how to properly assemble ratchet straps. This knowledge will help you avoid the possibility of damage from poorly insured property, as well as the cost of paying penalties.
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 lead to an accident.
It is also very important to know that ratchet straps are rated based on the weight they can support when breaking. 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 estate expert. It is always worth erring on the side of caution and going for 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 using the ratchet mechanism. If you are in any doubt as to whether you have properly secured cargo, don’t risk the journey. Find someone else with experience in using ratchet straps and ask them to 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 safely held 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 nominal breaking force of 800kg, 1500kg, 2000kg, 3000kg, 5000kg, and 10,000kg.
You should also verify that any ratchet strap you buy is made in accordance with the relevant safety legislation. Look for the safety mark on the packaging, and if you’re not sure, ask a salesperson to verify it.
You can also buy belts of different lengths. Again these will vary by individual manufacturer, but you can generally find straps between 4m and 15m. These will cover the different sizes of trailers, trucks and vans, from a small trailer to a heavy truck.
There is also a selection of ratchet strap ends to choose from, depending on the type of attachment points you have available. This wide range includes claw hooks, D-rings, snap hooks, chassis / rave hooks, S-hooks and endless straps, which are made from a high quality, strong polyester webbing.
How to load goods correctly
First, you need to evaluate the vehicle to make sure it has proper eyebolts to hold it down 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, ensuring there is minimal space between each item and its eyebolt. This will ensure that the items will not move once they are secure. Do not over-tighten the straps, especially if the merchandise you are transporting is fragile. It might be a good idea to try to cover any valuable items with a sheet or thick blankets to ensure that no damage occurs in transit.
At the destination, take a few seconds to make sure nothing has moved (if you’ve used the straps correctly, it should be fine, but it’s always best to check). The last thing you need is for the load to drop or collapse when you release the ratchet. When you release the ratchet, it should come loose 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, it is a good idea to take care of them. If you use them correctly, as described above, and store them correctly, you can make your straps last for years.
Before storing them, you need to make sure that your straps are clean and dry. If they are still damp when you fold them, this can damage the material. Preventing mold and mildew build-up will help extend the life of your belts.
And while it may be more convenient to toss the straps in a pile when not in use, taking that little extra time to sort them out will pay dividends the next time you wear them. Unwinding tangled webbing can be a frustrating business. In addition, straps stored safely and neatly do not pose any safety or tripping hazards 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, strapped into a sock. Cable ties are also helpful, as are rubber bands.
With a good quality ratchet strap set, you can secure and move all kinds of objects. Whether commercially or simply for personal use, these straps are a nice addition to any workshop or tool collection. And with the correct use and storage, you will find uses for your straps for years to come.