Ratchet buckles are a simple mechanism but aren't maintenance free.

Maintaining ratchet buckles properly ensures they stay safe, functional, and long-lasting.

Here's a straightforward guide to help you keep them in good condition:

1. Regular Cleaning

• After use, especially in dirty or wet environments, clean the buckle and strap.

• Use warm water and mild soap to remove dirt, grease, or salt.

• Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the metal or strap material.

• Dry thoroughly to prevent rust or mildew.

2. Lubrication

• Apply a light lubricant (like WD-40DRY, PTFE or silicone spray) to the moving parts of the ratchet mechanism.

• Wipe off excess to avoid attracting dust and debris.

• Do this periodically or if the ratchet feels stiff.

3. Inspection

• Check for fraying, cuts, or excessive wear on the strap.

• Inspect the ratchet teeth and handle for damage or deformation.

• Ensure the release mechanism works smoothly.

4. Storage

• Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

• Avoid leaving them exposed to the elements for long periods.

• Coil the straps neatly to prevent tangling or creasing.

5. Usage Tips

• Don't over-tighten as this can damage both the buckle and the cargo.

• Always align the strap properly in the ratchet to avoid jamming.

• Use the correct strap rating for the load you're securing.

Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about how to look after your Tensys ratchet straps. You may also want to download our handy maintenance checklist and log (PDF opens in new window).

Buy Ratchet Straps from Tensys Direct

Storing your ratchet straps correctly is crucial if you want to prevent premature wear and minimise the risk of a dangerous accident caused by a strap failing.

When attaching ratchet straps to securing / lashing points or the vehicle chassis, it’s important that the hooks fit correctly into the base radius.

Both round slings and flat slings are used to secure, support and move heavy loads. They are a popular lifting solution as they distribute the load's weight evenly, providing stability, preventing damage and enabling the safe handling of objects that lack attachment points.

A point load is when the weight of a heavy load is acting on one specific point instead of being spread across a wider area.

You may be using or have recently purchased cranked claw hooks for use as standalone diverter hooks, over-wheel straps or parts thereof primarily when transporting vehicles.

A cranked claw hook is designed to lift the strap away from the deck at an angle to route over the wheel/tyre combination.

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.

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.