Every Tensys ratchet strap has a label with lots of numbers and technical jargon on it. Some of these terms can be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with them, so we've put together this handy infographic to help you read and understand the information on your ratchet strap's label.

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Ratchet straps are great for securing loads during transportation. Their design combines a sturdy textile strap (usually made of polyester webbing) with a powerful ratcheting mechanism that applies and retains tension in the strap. This type of lashing strap is commonly used on trucks, vans and trailers to prevent cargo from moving around.

Never used a ratchet strap before? Don't worry – we've put together an illustrated guide to walk you through each step.

Here's how to use a ratchet strap...

1) Open the ratchet.

Pull the spring-loaded release lever by hand to open the ratchet mechanism.

Then, operate the handle until the slot in the spreader bar opens up enough for the webbing to pass through it.

2) Thread the strap.

Thread the end of the strap through the open slot in the ratchet mechanism and pull through as much slack as possible. There's no need to pull it as tight as you possibly can; it just needs to be pulled taut so the ratchet mechanism can take up the tension.

Next, you can either flip the end of the strap over and feed it back over the top of the ratchet mechanism so that it is doubled over on itself (see Method 2 in the diagram below) or leave to route straight through the buckle (see Method 1 below).

You don't want to overfill the mechanism with webbing as this may cause it to jam. To avoid this, pull the webbing taut by hand to start with, then operate the handle.

3) Wrap it around.

It's important when tensioned that the webbing wraps around the spreader bar 2.5 times to lock itself in position and apply the correct amount of tension.

4) Crank the handle.

Now, crank the ratchet handle back and forth to tighten the strap. Once it feels secure, stop ratcheting – too much pressure can damage your ratchet strap and the cargo you are securing.

A force of 50daN (kg) on the handle should apply sufficient tension to the load. If you need more tension, consider using an alternative ratchet such as an ergo 'pull down' type. Browse ergo ratchet straps here >>

5) Secure the handle.

Secure the tension and lock the handle into position. Most ratchets are fitted with a double lock, so you will need to pull the spring-loaded release trigger down to allow the handle into its stored position. Release to engage the double lock.

How do you release a ratchet strap?

To release your ratchet strap, pull and hold the release trigger, then rotate it 180° so that it sits flat with the cogs facing upwards. The release lever will engage with two idents, and the cam profile of the upper handle will release the rear pawl. You can then pull the strap loose by hand.

Here at Tensys Direct, we stock a wide range of ratchet straps in a variety of different sizes and strengths to accommodate many different load sizes.

Click the button below to browse and buy Tensys ratchet straps online – or if you have any further questions, please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to help!

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