Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or you regularly move cargo around, you’ll know that tie-down straps are a crucial part of a safe process. Opting to use quality, well maintained straps should always be the number one priority.
When using ratchet tie down straps, it’s essential to know that they can become damaged or worn over time. Using inferior or torn tie-downs can lead to a traffic accident when a strap snaps. Goods can get damaged, or there could be an injury.
Make Safety Your Key Priority
If you’ve been using ratchet straps for some time, you may be accustomed to glancing at them to ensure they’re fine. A first-time user may not always be aware of what to look for. Whether you’re using straps for a one-time move or you’re planning to use them more often, there are a few inspection tips to keep in mind.
1. Add Inspection Time to Your Planning
Getting your cargo load sorted out and tied down shouldn’t be done hurriedly, a few minutes before you’re planned leave time. Rather, plan adequate time to secure the load safely.
This includes taking the time to inspect the vehicle, trailer, and ratchet straps. You can also perform the checks the day before to ensure that you aren’t left taking shortcuts on the day.
2. Check the Straps Load Limit
The number one aspect to check when using tie-down straps is the load capacity. First-time users should know that not all straps are suitable to secure any items. The straps you use should be strong enough to safely hold the weight of your cargo, often referred to as load restraint. Experts recommend using a stronger strap rather than a lighter one to ensure that your goods are safely secured, no matter how short the distance you need to travel.
3. Assess the Fabric Condition
If you’re buying your straps new, then the fabric and stitching should be in perfect condition. However, as with other tools and equipment, it’s not uncommon for people to borrow straps from friends, especially if they’re just “doing a quick trip”. In this case, it’s essential to check the condition of the strap fabric.
Faded colouring can indicate exposure to the sun, which is common if they’re older or have been used often. Straps with sun exposure can be weaker and even frayed. You will need to check that the fabric is strong and not frayed.
4. Look for Worn Stitches
A key indicator that you’re dealing with a ratchet strap that’s too old to use or has become worn, is loose or broken stitching. No matter how durable your straps are, excessive use can eventually lead to small tears, holes, and broken stitches. This can also happen from rubbing against cargo. Straps with worn stitching are potentially weak and should not be used to move cargo.
5. Test the Buckle
Ratchet straps are made up of the strap and the buckle. Despite quality straps having robust buckles, it’s still essential to check this component when you’re doing the other checks. Sun, chemicals, rain, and excessive use can all contribute to the buckle becoming worn or weak.
Fortunately, you don’t have to discard the whole ratchet strap if the buckle is weak or damaged. Simply buy a new buckle. Be sure to opt for a version of the same weight capacity to ensure that your strap remains safe and functional.
6. Look for Signs of Mould or Mildew Build-Up
The fabric used in tiedown straps can become susceptible to mould, mildew, and bacterial build-up. This happens when you move cargo in the rain, snow, or travel through high-humidity areas.
Incorrect storage procedures can also contribute to the fabric not getting the ventilation that it needs. Straps that have signs of mould spores should be discarded, as this can lead to weakened and unsafe material.
7. Don’t Use knotted Straps
Many people purchase very long tie-down straps and then simply knot them to create the desired length. Keep in mind that this isn’t a good idea, and experts advise against doing this.
Not only does the fabric become weaker, but some knots can easily pull loose if they are secured too tightly. Always opt for straps in the right length and be sure to secure and loose pieces to prevent causing an accident or distraction during transport.
Final Thoughts
Ratchet straps, if used correctly, have proven to be the safest way to secure all types of cargo. Whether you’re tying your landscape equipment to the side of your trailer or you’re securing a few boxes for a quick move, always invest in quality straps.
Use our tips to help you perform the necessary checks to ensure that your cargo is secured as safely as possible. Keep in mind that cargo doesn’t only need to be secure at the starting point of your journey, but also needs to remain tightly secured for the whole journey. Give yourself peace of mind that your cargo is secure by opting for quality, well-inspected ratchet straps every time!
