The biggest misconception is that a 10 tonne ratchet strap can secure twice the load of a 5 tonne strap. In practice, the difference is more nuanced.

Strength

A 10 tonne strap is manufactured with heavier webbing and a larger ratchet, giving:

• Higher breaking force
• Higher lashing capacity
• Higher standard tension force (STF)

This means it can apply more restraining force when tensioned.

Practical Example

For...

• Palletised goods
• Building materials
• General curtain-sided loads
• Small plant and machinery

...a 50mm 5 tonne strap is usually the industry standard.

For...

• Excavators
• Large plant equipment
• Steel fabrications
• Abnormal loads

A 75mm 10 tonne strap is often preferred because it provides more restraint force and is more resistant to damage from sharp edges and abrasion.

Size & Handling

A 10 tonne strap is considerably:

• Heavier
• Bulkier
• Harder to throw over loads
• More expensive

Many operators prefer to use several 5 tonne straps rather than one 10 tonne strap because they are easier to handle and often provide better load distribution.

Compliance

Under BS EN 12195 load securing calculations, simply fitting a stronger strap does not automatically mean you can use fewer straps. The required number is determined by:

• Load weight
• Friction coefficient between load and truck/trailer
• Securing method
• STF value
• Load dimensions

This is why STF-based lashing calculations are important for determining the actual number of straps required.

Rule of Thumb

Choose a 5 tonne strap when:

• General haulage loads are being secured
• Ease of handling is important
• Standard UK transport applications are involved

Choose a 10 tonne strap when:

• Securing heavy plant or abnormal loads
• Higher STF is required
• Extra durability and robustness are needed

For most UK haulage operators, a quality 50mm 5 tonne ratchet strap remains the go-to restraint product, while 10 tonne straps are generally reserved for specialist heavy-duty applications.

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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).

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If you've ever looked closely at one of our ratchet strap labels, you may have spotted the term BFmin. This is short for minimum breaking force – a very important measurement, and one that's often misunderstood.

Basically, the minimum breaking force is your brand new ratchet strap's absolute limit. If the strap is subjected to forces equalling or exceeding the BFmin, the strap will fail.

BFmin should not be confused with the strap's lashing capacity (LC), which refers to the maximum force your ratchet strap is designed to sustain in actual working conditions.

Read on to learn more about BFmin and what it actually means in relation to our ratchet straps.

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.

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.