Know your Ratchet Straps

A ratchet strap is used to ensure a load remains secure when it is in transport or stored. Webbing ratchet straps can be used to secure most types of loads, but it is essential to make sure that you use and store them properly.

Ratchet straps are made from a highly durable and tough polyester webbing that has very little stretch. The tension applied to the handle secures the load, allowing a range of tension from the user, for this reason they are often the preferred choice for load restraint of large or heavy loads over rope or other straps. A ratchet strap is most commonly used in the transport industry on trailers, trucks, shipping containers and other hauling vehicles.

Safe use & Tips

• When you’re not using straps, you should store them in a weatherproof container or compartment, so they don’t get damaged.
• Choose straps that are strong enough to secure the loads you carry. There are different styles of ratchets, hooks and webbing that determine the working load limit (WLL) of a ratchet system, always check the label.
• Secure the Straps correctly, ensure anchor points are secure and suitable for the loading, ensuring a firm and stable connection.
• As a rule, if you’re transporting palletised goods, boxes and stillages, you will need at least one strap per row.
• If you carry loads like steel, concrete, and scrap metal that can damage the strap material, use corner protectors or webbing sleeves to protect the straps.
• If you’re transporting pipes or poles, it’s often better to use loop lashing, where the strap wraps around the load to make sure the load stays together.
• Check your straps regularly.
• Never use a knot in any part of the strap that’s under tension.
• Cuts, tears, water, rock salt and oil contamination can lead to straps wearing out.

Protier offer a full range of Quality Ratchet systems and components through our Lifting-Slings.org online store. You can find our products HERE.