Strap it down right.
Working load limits, the federal tie-down rules, how to thread and release a ratchet, and spec-by-spec reviews of the straps people actually buy. Written from manufacturer specs and the regulations, not sales copy, with free calculators to check your own load.
A guide to ratchet straps that starts with the label
Most strap listings advertise break strength, the number that sells. The number that keeps a load on the trailer is the working load limit, usually a third of that. Ratchet Strap Guide explains the ratings, the federal cargo-securement rules in plain language, and how to thread, tighten, release and store a strap so it lasts.
The reviews compare straps on their published specifications, hook types and what each is built for. We do not invent test results. Some links are Amazon affiliate links, and AUGO pays a bonus commission on its straps, so every page that recommends a product says so in the first screen.
Start here: Working load limit explained · How many straps do I need? · Free calculators · AUGO straps · Disclosure
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Latest guides
- AUGO Heavy Duty Ratchet Straps Review (4-Pack, 15 ft, 2200 lb)
Spec-based AUGO heavy duty ratchet straps review: what the 1 in x 15 ft, 2,200 lb set is rated for (about 733 lb WLL), who it fits, and what it is not for.
Updated Oct 2026 - Best Ratchet Straps for Motorcycles: What to Buy and How to Strap
The best ratchet straps for motorcycles by published spec: 1" to 1.5" webbing, soft loops, latched hooks, four-point tie, plus how far to compress the forks.
Updated Oct 2026 - How Many Ratchet Straps Do I Need? FMCSA Rules Made Simple
How many ratchet straps you need by cargo length and weight, using the FMCSA tie-down count and aggregate working load limit rules, with worked examples.
Updated Oct 2026 - How to Use Ratchet Straps: Thread, Tighten, Release, Tie Off
How to use ratchet straps step by step: thread the mandrel from below, keep 2-4 wraps, tighten without crushing the load, release the pawl and tie off the tail.
Updated Oct 2026 - Working Load Limit vs Break Strength on Ratchet Straps
Working load limit vs break strength: the 3:1 design factor, how 49 CFR 393.108 defines a tiedown's WLL, and why strap listings quote break strength.
Updated Oct 2026
Free planning tools
All tools →- FreeTie-Down WLL Calculator
Add up tiedown working load limits the 49 CFR 393.106 way, check them against half the cargo weight, and get the 393.110 minimum strap count.
- FreeStrap Angle Calculator
See how much of a strap's rating pushes the load down versus along the deck at any tie-down angle, with a diagram.
- FreeRatchet Strap Length Estimator
Work out the strap length a load needs, with mandrel wraps and hardware allowed for, rounded to a common size.
How we make these guides
Official sources first
Fees, hours and rules come from operators and official pages where we can find them, with the source noted in our research.
Honest about gaps
When we cannot verify a number we say so and give a range, instead of printing false precision.
Dated and kept current
Every guide shows when it was last updated, and we re-check prices and schedules on a regular cycle.
Free tools, no sign-up
Budget calculators, maps and checklists that run in your browser. Nothing is stored or sold.