There’s a range of tools or methods that are regularly used to secure cargo and heavy loads in trailers and in the back of vehicles. Have you ever wondered if there are certain methods that are more effective than others, and what makes them better? If so, you’re in the right place!
What are the main methods and tools used to secure loads?
With all of the different ways for you to secure your load, it can get complicated knowing which are best, what the benefits of each are and why certain methods can only be used in certain cases. Here are the main ones and some information on each of them.
Chains – Chain Binders are long chain tensioning devices that are used to hold down and secure heavy loads. Due to their strength and durability, they are primarily used to secure vehicles and machinery onto the back of trailers. Due to them being hard and uneven, they are not as ideal for using with general cargo or securing painted vehicles as they can potentially scratch and damage your cargo.
Cargo Nets – Cargo netting is usually a large, singular net that can be tied down in multiple places along each side. They are great for securing items with an odd shape or for specific load and load carrying types. For example, for truck beds – you can find one that matches the exact size of your truck bed so that it fits on and off perfectly. However, for larger trailers, they often don’t fit properly. They’re also designed for light-duty usage only and can allow for movement of your cargo, so any heavy duty or fragile loads should not be secured with nets.
Rope – Rope can be a good method of securing loads as it is cheap, strong and won’t cause too much damage to your cargo. However, not all ropes are legally allowed to be used for load securing, so you must make sure that any rope you use is officially load rated. In addition to this, the only way to secure a rope is by tying a knot – if this isn’t done properly or securely enough, then it can create a dangerous and unstable load.
Ratchet Straps – Ratchet straps (also known as tie down straps or securing straps) are another good way to secure your cargo. They are all created with the sole purpose of keeping heavy cargo secure, so they’re designed perfectly for this application. They are also adjustable and have sturdy hooks at each end, allowing you secure them properly over your cargo, no matter what size it is. Although they can be more expensive than other load securing methods, they are created to withstand weather and resist any stretching, meaning that they’re likely to last longer than other equipment.
So which method is best and why?
As you can see, each of the main load securing methods and equipment have their own benefits and drawbacks, and often it comes down to your personal requirement as to which is best.
Overall, ratchet straps are likely to be the best option as they can cover the widest range of uses. Whether you’re securing small loads, motorbikes onto trailers, kayaks onto cars, or extremely heavy loads on trucks, ratchet straps have you covered. On top of that, they’re durable and easy to use safely – other methods are liable to breaking sooner and are harder to secure entire loads properly and safely.