Tie down straps are used to secure items during shipment or movement. There are many different types of products. Examples include hold downs and ratcheted tie downs; winch, cargo, and axle straps; cam buckles and bungee cords. Tie down straps are also used with tie-down clamps, D-shaped rings or T-shaped cleats that are made from heat-treated aluminum, chrome-plated zinc, or stainless steel. 

Specifications

Specifications for tie down straps include length, width, rated capacity, working load limit, and materials of construction. Most tie down strap suppliers carry a wide range of products and meet safety standards from organizations such as the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), the Web Sling and Tie Down Association (WSTDA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). 

Types of Tie Down Straps

Winch straps, cargo straps and axle straps are common types of tie down straps. Winch straps are designed for use with industrial winches, pulling devices that are powered by an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic motor. Winch straps come in widths of 2, 3 or 4 inches and vary in terms of length and color. Most products are made of flexible, durable materials such as leather, nylon, polyester, or resin-coated polymers. 

Cargo straps, cam straps, and ratchet straps are also types of tie down straps that include hooks at each end and a ratcheted tightening mechanism. Like cam buckles, cargo straps are often sold in pairs. Axle tie down straps are rated for heavy loads and can be used to secure automobiles and heavy machinery for transport. These types of tie down straps that are used in conjunction with ratchet wheel straps should have comparable ratings. Other types of tie down straps may also be commonly available.