The Basics of Tie-Down Straps

The Basics of Tie-Down Straps

A tie down strap is a length of webbing that is tensioned and used to secure cargo or equipment for transportation. They are available in lengths ranging from around six feet for small loads to 40 feet for commercial trucking applications and typically range from one inch to four inches wide. Tie-down straps come with two ratings to indicate overall strength; break strength describes the maximum comfortable weight that can be supported before the strap fails, and working load describes the maximum weight that a tie-down can support with regular day-to-day use without becoming damaged. The working load is generally calculated as one-third of the break strength.

Towing Ropes

Towing ropes feature an easy-to-use gator clip, and are generally the lightest-duty tie-down strap with a maximum of 100-lb working load and 220-lb break strength. They are designed for use on cargo carriers, game carts, and other small loads.

Cam Buckle Straps

Cam Buckle Straps are generally lighter-duty than ratchet straps but heavier-duty than lashing straps. They are designed for use with medium-sized loads such as dirt bikes and ATVs, and can have up to a 500-lb working load and 1,500-lb breaking strength. They are easy and quicker to tighten and release than a ratchet strap, but cannot safely secure as much weight.

Ratchet Straps

Ratchet tie down straps are named for their method of locking and securing the strap via an easy-to-use ratcheting system. Ratchet straps can have a working load limit up to 5,000 lbs. with a 15,000-lb break strength rating and can create a tighter and more secure restraint – ideal for solid, heavy loads. 

Bungee Cords, also known as shock cords, are better suited to light-duty applications such as hanging a tarp or tying up small items for storage.

If you're like us, you're probably using your garage for anything but a place to park your ride. And that's because it's become a warehouse for all of the stuff you can't find room for in or around your home, like toys, cleaning supplies, gardening equipment, and tools. Getting the space clean and orderly has probably been on your to-do list for ages, which is why we searched far and wide for the best garage storage ideas. Whether you're looking to give the area a whole top-to-bottom makeover, or just want a convenient, tidy method to sock away your family's bikes, we have what you need.

One of the best ways to organize your garage is by grouping gear of the same kind together so it's easy to find. Using a combination of shelves and storage hooks, this gardening equipment is stored neatly side-by-side, with a large, labeled bin for holding smaller items.

Kick clutter to the curb with a sturdy slat wall hooks and panel that uses baskets, and more to hold necessities like cleaning and gardening supplies.

  For a indoor place to hang your go-to jacket or everyday bag, consider a wall-mounted coat rack or hooks. We have plenty of recommendations in our guides to coat hooks, which are sturdy, take little space, and add a pop of style.