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We get it, you're busy and need to move things quickly. There are trailers full of mowers, boats, and motorcycles to be towed, and a truck bed's worth of mulch, compost, and pavers to haul. But doing so unsafely will only lead to headaches and potential danger. That’s why it's time you learn how to use a ratchet strap!

A ratchet strap is a tool used to safely and securely strap-down or fasten a particular load to a trailer, pickup truck bed, or car. It’s a simple and easy-to-use tool that increases the safety of your cargo ten-fold when applied correctly.

So grab The Drive's informational team's hand and walk with us as we explain exactly how to use a ratchet strap and do so safely. Let's get safe!

What Is Ratchet Strap?

A ratchet strap is a fastener or tie-down tool made of a fabric belt and a ratchet tie down set that allows the user to create tension between two ends that typically feature hooks. It is used to secure cargo, whether that’s in a truck bed, on a trailer, or on top of your car’s roof.

What Are The Parts of a Ratchet Strap?

Here are all the parts of a packaged ratchet straps.

Handle and Release

The handle actuates the ratchet strap’s axle, which tenses the strap and allows you to secure your load. The handle also features the ratchet strap’s release, a small piece of metal or plastic that you squeeze to release the strap’s tension.

Axle

A spinning mechanism that is actuated by the handle and tenses the strap.

Slot

A thin opening on the axle that the strap is fed into.

Strap

There are two pieces to the strap. The strap attached to the front of the handle and the non-attached strap that is fed into the ratchet strap’s slot and axle.

Hooks

Two metal hooks are attached to the straps, one on each end, and act as anchor points. And hook types include double J hooks, single J hooks, S hooks, U hooks, twist hooks.

Ratchet Straps Safety

Working with ratchet straps can be dangerous. When properly secured, the ratchet strap is under a great load, and frayed, cut, or improperly secured ratchet straps can snap. Here’s exactly how you can safely use a ratchet strap and not die, get maimed, or lose a finger—hopefully.