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Logistic straps offer flexibility and a reliable hold when securing cargo. Made of industrial grade webbing, these straps are tough enough to secure even some of the largest and heaviest items. Additionally, their ability to wrap around items makes them versatile enough to be used with items of unusual shape and dimensions.
Here we will look at what logistic straps are, their uses, and variations including Cam Straps, E Track Straps, and Ratchet Straps.
What are Logistic Straps?
Logistic straps are strong but flexible straps that can be used to keep cargo from shifting while in transit or to tie cargo down. Made of industrial strength webbing, these straps are strong and resistant to shredding and tearing. Each strap is equipped with a hook on either end and a metal latch that allows you to loosen or tighten the strap as needed.
What are Logistic Straps Used for? Logistic straps have several applications but they are most often used to secure items to a trailer wall. You can also attach anchoring points to the floor of a trailer and secure items this way as well. They can be used in large industrial applications and also for securing cargo in smaller vans and trucks.
What is a Logistic Strap Made of? Logistic straps are made of industrial grade polyester webbing. Used for its durability, industrial grade polyester is highly flexible but will not stretch. This combination of properties helps to keep items securely in place without causing damaging pressure points.
How Much Can a Logistic Strap Hold?
A logistic strap’s strength is measured as a “working load limit.” A working load limit represents the maximum weight that a strap can lift without risk of breaking. However, it is not recommended to use a strap at this maximum capacity long term. Typically, it is best to leave some room for error in weight calculations and for additional stress that may be put on the strap as it moves.
How much weight a strap can hold is dependent on its width. Here are the weight limits you can expect based on a strap’s width
1” Straps: The narrowest of the logistic straps, these are intended for lighter use jobs and can typically hold between 500 and 1,100 lbs. These straps are often good for use in a home or personal vehicle for use with smaller cargo.
2” Straps: These medium width straps will be rated from around 900 lbs all the way up to 3,300 lbs. Use 2” straps for medium strength jobs such as securing small vehicles. The type of hooks and hardware will affect where a strap falls within this range.
3” Straps: Made for the heaviest duty jobs, these straps can each hold up to well over 5,000 lbs. 3” straps are typically reserved for very large cargo and are unlikely to be needed in a personal home or vehicle.
Tips for Choosing and Using Logistic Straps
- It is important to look for a working load limit on a logistic strap since this indicates the strap has been rigorously tested to ensure it can hold as much weight as it claims. Straps without clearly stated working load limits may be of lesser quality and not reliable.
- Wider and stronger straps are not always better. For example, it may seem as if getting all 3” straps makes the most sense since they can hold the most. However, it is important to keep in mind that these thicker straps also have larger, heavier hardware. This extra weight can be difficult to maneuver and can be dangerous if the strap were to snap.
- Use at least 4 straps at 4 different points to ensure extra stability and safety.
- Avoid over tightening your straps as they require some give to move with the objects. Similarly, an overly tightened strap will be more prone to breakage. You will mostly need to look out for this with ratchet straps.
Different Types of Logistic Straps
Along with different widths and weight ratings, logistic straps come with different tightening hardware and hooks.
Cam Buckles: Cam buckles are among the most widely used logistic straps. These straps have a tightening mechanism that allows you to pull the strap tight. This is similar to how you would tighten a seatbelt. Manual tightening like this prevents the strap from being pulled too tight which can damage items.
Ratchet Straps: Ratchet straps have an easy release type ratchet that makes it faster and easier to release cargo. This is ideal for when you are trying to load and unload cargo quickly.
E Track Straps: E Track Straps use a track system that is installed on the walls or floor of a trailer. This allows these straps to easily attach at nearly any point you need them, no need to adjust how your cargo is positioned in order to use individual anchor points. Instead, a track allows this type of strap to attach anywhere along the track’s length.
Logistic Straps vs Load Bars & Decking Beams
Best Uses of Decking Beams and Load Bars: Both load bars and decking beams provide a sturdy yet rigid way to secure shipments. Made of high strength aluminium, these adjustable bars fit securely against trailer or truck walls to hold items in place. While they are extremely useful, they are best used with uniformly shaped cargo, typically in boxes.
Limitations: Obviously, this is not ideal for all items. Along with not accommodating a broader range of shapes, they can also put pressure on softer materials and any items that have protrusions. For example, if you are transporting a bike, 4-wheeler or similar item, a decking beam may keep the items from sliding around the trailer bed but may cause scuff marks or dents against unprotected surfaces. Hard jolts while in transit may even cause the beams to press against handlebars, mirrors, and other areas that stick out.
When to Choose Logistic Straps: If decking beams or load bars are too rigid to serve your cargo securement needs, logistic straps are the answer. They are strong enough to secure items but flexible and soft enough as to not cause damage. Logistic straps are also more versatile in how they can be placed.
Depending on the type, beams and bars will either be attached to a track system or need to be fitted so they are securely extended to fit between the trailer walls, using pressure to keep them in place.
This is in contrast to logistic straps which come equipped with hooks on either end. Install anchor points to walls, floors, or any secure surface to easily attach these hooks. This ability to attach to easily installed anchor points gives logistic straps much more flexibility and versatility in where and how they can be placed.
Safety and Quality
Logistic straps are an important part of keeping you and your cargo safe. Not only will an inferior or damaged strap increase the chances of cargo damage, they can also prove dangerous. A snapped strap at the wrong time and place can cause serious injuries and accidents.
Whether you use logistic straps to secure cargo within a trailer or on an open truck bed, you need quality you can depend on. At Toronto Trailers, we know just how important it is to have reliable equipment to secure your cargo. This is why we stock only the highest quality logistic straps to make your job easier and safer. Shop our logistic straps for our complete selection.
