How do truck drivers use ratchet straps?

Ratchet straps are a crucial tool for truckers securing cargo. Proper use ensures safe transport and prevents cargo from loosening or falling.

1. Preparation

Inspect the ratchet strap:

Confirm that the strap is free of cuts, wear, or rust (metal parts).

Check that the ratchet locking mechanism is flexible and not binding.

Ensure that the hook is free of deformation or cracks.

Choosing the Right Ratchet Strap:

Load Matching: The Working Load Limit (WLL) of a single ratchet strap must be greater than the cargo weight (common sizes: 1 ton, 2 ton, and 5 ton).

Length Appropriate: The strap length should be at least 30 cm longer than the cargo circumference for ease of handling.

Prepare the following tools:

Anti-slip pads (to protect the cargo edges)

Rubber corner guards (to protect the strap from sharp objects)

Tension meter (optional, for measuring tightening force)

2. Proper Lashing Procedure

Step 1: Securing the Hooks

Attach the hooks at each end of the ratchet strap to the designated anchor points (D-rings, track grooves) on the truck bed. Do not attach to non-load-bearing components (such as side rails).

The hooks must be fully closed and facing in a direction that prevents them from coming loose (e.g., if hooked in reverse).

Step 2: Wrapping the Cargo

Wrap the ratchet strap around the cargo, ensuring it lies flat and free of twisting (twisting reduces strength by 30%).

If the cargo has sharp corners, rubber corner guards or anti-slip pads must be installed.

Step 3: Tightening the Ratchet Strap

Thread the slack in the strap through the ratchet mechanism and tighten until it is no longer loose.

Repeatedly rotate the ratchet handle (usually 5-10 times) until the strap is sufficiently tensioned (you can press the strap with your hand and there is no noticeable looseness). Do not overtighten: Excessive tightening may cause cargo deformation or strap breakage (nylon strap elongation ≤ 10%).

Step 4: Locking and Securing

Pull the ratchet handle down to the locked position to ensure the self-locking mechanism is fully engaged.

Secure the excess strap tail with an elastic cord or cable tie to prevent it from flapping during operation.

3. Key Notes

Safety Regulations:

Do not stand directly in front of a tightened ratchet strap (it could eject and injure people if it breaks).

Wear non-slip gloves when operating to prevent your hands from being cut by the strap.

Optimizing the Lashing Angle:

The ideal lashing angle is 30° to 60° (horizontally). A larger angle reduces the payload.

Environmental Adaptability:

Rainy Weather: Nylon straps lose 15% of their strength after absorbing water. Additional tightening and reduced inspection intervals are required.

Low Temperatures: Polyester straps may become brittle in temperatures below -20°C. Preheating is recommended before tightening.

4. Inspection During Transport

Circumstances in which the vehicle must be stopped for inspection:

Initial inspection after one hour of driving (newly tied straps may become loose).

After traveling over bumpy roads or sudden braking.

Regular inspection every 2-3 hours (for long-distance transport).

Key Inspection Points:

Is the ratchet lock secure?

Is the strap worn or rubbing against the cargo?

Is the hook loose or deformed?