types of tie-down straps

Types of Tie-Down Straps: Your Complete Guide to Securing Any Load

Written by Pierce Bryant
December 22, 2023

Choosing the right types of tie-down straps for your cargo isn't just a good idea – it's essential for safe and responsible transportation. From hauling furniture across town to strapping down motorcycles, proper cargo securement protects you, your belongings, and everyone on the road.

At Rhino USA, we offer many different types of tie-down straps to choose from. The best choice for you will depend on the specific application you have in mind. To help you decide, we've provided a list below that explains the different uses for each type of strap.

Heavy-Duty (HD) Ratchet Straps:

heavy duty ratchet straps

  • Applications: Securing heavy cargo like motorcycles, furniture, appliances, and machinery during transport.
  • Features: 1.6" poly/silk webbing with double-diamond stitching, a high break strength (max 5,208 lbs), full-bend s-hooks with integrated safety clips, and a heavy-duty ratcheting mechanism for precise tensioning.

Medium-Duty Ratchet Straps:

medium duty ratchet straps

  • Applications: Securing medium-weight cargo like kayaks, lawnmowers, coolers, and smaller furniture.
  • Features: 1" poly/silk webbing, a medium break strength (max 1,823 lbs), full-bend s-hooks with integrated safety clips, less bulky and easier to handle than heavy-duty straps.

Retractable Ratchet Straps:

retractable ratchet straps

  • Applications: Convenient for securing cargo in trailers, trucks, and beds where storage space is limited.
  • Features: 1" poly/silk webbing, medium break strength (max 1,209 lbs), full-bend s-hooks with integrated safety clips, built-in spring mechanism that automatically retracts the strap, keeping it tidy and preventing tangles.

Cambuckle Straps:

cambuckle tie-down straps

  • Applications: Quick and easy to use for securing medium cargo like bikes, kayaks, dirtbikes, ATVs, and camping gear.
  • Features: 1.5" poly/silk webbing with double-diamond stitching, a medium-high break strength (max 3,328 lbs), full-bend s-hooks with integrated safety clips, and a tensioning mechanism operated by a cam buckle, no ratcheting needed.

Bungee Cords:

bungee cords

  • Applications: Lightweight and versatile for securing small items like luggage, coolers, and tarps.
  • Features: Double braided rubber and latex core, heavy-duty 3.5mm steel core hooks, ultra-durable plastic coating, and a US lab-tested break strength (max 185 lbs)

Axle Tie-Down Straps:

axle straps

  • Applications: Specifically designed to secure vehicles by wrapping around the axle.
  • Features: 2" x 38" poly/silk webbing, a very high break strength (max 11,128 lbs), triple-stitched looped ends, heavy-duty reinforced steel d-rings on each end, and anti-scratch protective sleeves.

Transom Tie-Down Straps:

transom straps boat buckles

  • Applications: Securing boats and personal watercraft to trailers by attaching to transom tie-down points.
  • Features: 2" x 96" poly/silk webbing, a very high break strength (max 10,000 lbs), full-bend s-hooks with integrated safety clips, heavy-duty padding, and corrosion-resistant hardware.

Lashing Straps:

lashing straps

  • Applications: Perfect for tying down large or odd-shaped cargo together for stability during transport or storage.
  • Features: 1" x 12' poly/silk webbing, rust-proof zinc alloy buckle in a silicone housing that's easy on your hands. It also has an integrated hook and loop fastener for easy storage.

Heavy-Duty Tarp Straps:

tarp straps

  • Applications: Securing tarps to trailers, sheds, or other outdoor structures.
  • Features: EPHD Rubber, Industrial Strength, 3 connection points for adjustable length, extra-thick straps, and strong hooks for attachment.

E-Track Ratchet Straps:

e-track ratchet straps

  • Applications: Used with E-track cargo tracks in vans, trailers, and truck beds for secure and versatile cargo tie-down.
  • Features: Poly/silk webbing, a high break strength (max 4,500 lbs), fittings designed to slide into and lock onto E-track, heavy-duty padding, and corrosion-resistant hardware.

UTV Wheel Chock Tie-Downs

UTV tie-down straps

  • Applications: Securing UTVs and other off-road vehicles in trailers or on truck beds using wheel chocks with integrated tie-down straps.
  • Features: Cradles the wheels to prevent movement, integrated straps provide additional security, fittings designed to slide into and lock onto E-track fitted wheel chocks.

Car Lasso Straps:

lasso straps

Applications: Designed for transporting mid-sized vehicles like Cars, Trucks, UTVs, and Jeeps.

Features: Heavy-duty stitching, pro-grade materials, a high break strength (max 10,000 lbs), a unique lasso design that provides a secure and adjustable connection to your vehicle's tires, eliminating the risk of damage or shifting during transit.

Why Are Tie-Down Straps So Important?

Now, let's go over some of the most important reasons why tie-down straps should be part of your hauling gear.

1. Preventing Accidents:

Loose cargo is a hazard waiting to happen. Sudden stops, turns, or even bumps can send unsecured items flying, potentially causing:

  • Collisions: Loose cargo can become projectiles, crashing into other vehicles or causing drivers to swerve dangerously.
    • Vehicle Damage: Unrestrained cargo can slam into your own vehicle, damaging the interior, exterior, or even compromising its handling.
      • Road Hazards: Lost cargo creates obstacles for other drivers, increasing the risk of accidents and property damage.

        Tie-down straps prevent these scenarios by anchoring your cargo firmly in place, minimizing movement and ensuring it stays put through all road conditions.

        2. Protecting Your Belongings:

        Unsecured cargo is vulnerable to damage during transport. Bouncing around can lead to:

        • Scratches and Dents: Furniture, appliances, and even delicate items like bikes can become scratched or dented when colliding with each other or the inside of your vehicle.
          • Cracks and Breaks: Fragile items are especially susceptible to breaking when jostled about without proper support.
            • Internal Damage: Loose machinery or equipment can suffer internal damage from bouncing and shifting, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

              Tie-down straps provide essential support and stability, minimizing movement and protecting your belongings from bumps and bruises.

              3. Peace of Mind:

              Knowing your cargo is secure brings peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the road instead of worrying about potential disasters. Securement straps give you the confidence that:

              • You're following the law:** Most regions have laws requiring proper cargo securement. Tie-downs ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or citations.
              • You're being responsible:** Securely transporting your cargo is not just legal, it's your responsibility as a driver to keep everyone safe.
              • You'll Arrive with Everything Intact:** Whether you're moving household goods or delivering valuable equipment, tie-down straps provide the assurance that your items will arrive safe and sound.

                    In conclusion, using tie-down straps is an investment in both safety and peace of mind. They prevent accidents, protect your belongings, and ensure responsible transportation. Don't let your next trip turn into a disaster – buckle down and secure your cargo properly before hitting the road.