How to Use a Ratchet Strap?

Ratchet straps are the easy and flexible way to secure cargo of nearly any shape or size. Attach them easily to your truck bed or moving van or even use them to secure items to each other. Here we will look at the basics of how to use a ratchet strap including safety and storage tips for ratchet straps.

Step By Step Guide to Ratchet Strap Basics

Ratchets can be used in several ways to secure and support cargo. However, some basics apply to most ratchet usage. Here are the main steps to using a ratchet.

How to Thread a Ratchet Strap

  1. Open the Ratchet: On the center top of the ratchet you will see a small handle. Pull up on this lever to open the ratchet to its max position. Once this is open, you will see a spiked cog. Position the ratchet so the spiked cog is facing up at you.
  2. Pull the Strap Through: To begin threading the strap, pull it through the underside of the ratchet. This opening at the bottom of the ratchet is known as a mandrel.  Pull the strap through the mandrel just until it cannot be pulled any further. It should be taut but do not force it as you can tighten it more later with the ratchet. This will allow you to adjust the length to ensure your cargo is held securely.

How to Secure Cargo with a Ratchet Strap

Ratchet straps can be used to secure cargo in a vehicle or they can be used to secure items to each other. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. To Secure Items to a Truckbed: For securement to a moving van or truck bed, simply pull the strap tight across the items then secure the hooks to either the 1) Slots located in the walls of the van or 2) Sides of the truck bed.
  2. Use Multiple Straps: If you have taller or heavier cargo, multiple straps may come in handy. To do this, secure a strap at both the top and bottom of the cargo. For extra protection, use three straps with the third strap placed in the middle.  You will also use this method should you want to secure items to each other and to the van or truck. Start by securing the items together, then use a second or third strap to secure them to the vehicle.
  3. Secure Items to Each Other: To secure items to each other, simply create a loop by hooking the ends of the ratchet strap together. This loop can then be fitted around the items and then pulled tight with the ratchet mechanism.

Ratchet Strap UseTightening the Ratchet Strap

  1. Pull the Strap: Ratcheting or tightening the strap will be fairly self explanatory as you simply pull the strap until it is taught. Once it feels right, give an extra tug to test if it is secure.
  2. Don’t Over Tighten: Though it might be tempting to give an extra tug or two on a ratchet strap to make it extra taut, this can sometimes do more harm than good. It can create too much stress on your strap or create pressure points on the cargo itself.
  3. Test for Tautness: While you should have a good feel for if the ratchet is secure, one small test is to simply stick your index finger between the cargo and the strap. You should be able to get your finger in but it should fit snugly. In other words, if you are unable to get your finger in at all, the strap is likely too tight but if there is too much slack, then you need to pull the ratchet tighter.

How to Lock a Ratchet

To lock a ratchet, you simply flip it closed until you hear a click. The click is very important. Unless the latch is unsecure, broken, or defective, the click should be there. If you do not hear this secure sound, give the strap another pull to ensure it does not come loose. If the strap does loosen, you likely need to change out your ratchet as it is not functioning properly.

How to Release a Ratchet Strap

  1. Locate the Release Tab: The release tab should be located on the top of the ratchet. Simply press this until the latch pops open easily.
  2. Loosen the Strap: Once the tab is released, open the ratchet completely and then pull the strap free.

How to Store Your Ratchet Strap

  1. Coil Your Ratchet Strap: Ratchet straps are designed to easily tighten into a neat coil. Make sure to coil your straps whenever they are not in use to avoid them getting tangled. Once coiled, the ratchet can be locked into place to keep the coil secure.
  2. Store in Locked Position: After releasing the strap, it is best to store the ratchet in the closed position. This can help prevent the internal mechanism of the ratchet from being damaged or the hinge being compromised.
  3. Other Options: If you have smaller straps or ones that do not lock together in a coil position, they can also be bundled and secured with zip ties, heavy duty rubber bands, ropes, or bungee cords.
  4. Storage Containers: While quality ratchet straps can withstand the elements and a good amount of stress, they should still be stored away when not in use. Choose a large, heavy duty plastic storage bin to keep your straps away from moisture that could corrode the metal of the ratchet. This also keeps the straps from rubbing against rough surfaces that may wear them down.

Tips for Using Ratchet Straps

  1. Choose the Right Sized Ratchet Strap: Ratchet straps come with a working capacity and fastener breaking strength rating. The working capacity denotes the weight that the strap can comfortably support cargo on a regular basis. However, the fastener breaking strength is the maximum weight the ratchet can support before breaking.  While the breaking strength may be up to three times the working capacity, you do not want to test this limit. It is always best to stay at or below the working capacity unless there are special circumstances.
  2. When in Doubt Use Multiple Straps: If you have a particularly heavy cargo load, it is best to distribute the weight across two or more straps. Use multiple straps for additional security and to increase the overall working capacity.
  3. Check for Damage: Ratchet straps frequently have a tough job and they can become damaged quite unexpectedly. This is why you should aim to inspect a ratchet strap before use. Check for any kind of fraying or damage to the strap and the ratchet mechanism. There should be no visible damage, rust, loose fibers, or any other issues. Make sure you are always using undamaged ratchet straps to avoid injury to yourself, your cargo, and your vehicle.
  4. Be Aware of Ratchet Safety: Be careful when releasing a ratchet strap. Your vehicle should always be parked in a level position to prevent cargo from sliding when the strap is released.

Expert Help with Ratchet Straps

While ratchet straps are extremely useful, they can pose a danger when used improperly. If you are unsure about using ratchet straps on your own, Ontario Container Transport can help. We offer ratchet straps for customers and also a ratchet strap service to complement our comprehensive container transport offerings.

Contact OCT for free cost estimates on all your cargo transportation needs.

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