Ratchet Strap Glossary
Everything you need to know about ratchet strap terminology, from hook types and strap specifications to load ratings and compliance standards.
Hook Types
Claw Hook
A heavy-duty hook with a spring-loaded claw mechanism, designed to grip anchor points securely without slipping. Ideal for flatbed and curtainsider applications where a positive lock is required.
S Hook
A simple S-shaped hook offering quick attachment and release. Suited to lighter securing tasks and anchor rails where speed of use is prioritised over maximum retention.
Snap Hook (Flat Hook)
A flat, low-profile hook that slides under anchor rails and cargo bars. Preferred for van lashing and enclosed trailer use where clearance is limited.
D Ring / Delta Ring
A fixed D-shaped ring used as a termination point rather than a hook. Often used on the fixed end of a strap to loop through anchor points or connect to shackles.
Chassis Hook
A wide, flat hook engineered to grip vehicle chassis rails and subframes. Common in vehicle recovery and machinery transport.
Looped Ends
Straps with no hook — just a sewn loop at each end. Used with shackles, pins, or custom anchor hardware for specialist securing applications.
Strap Specifications
Strap Width
Typically 25mm, 35mm, or 50mm. Wider straps distribute load over a greater surface area and generally carry higher Working Load Limits.
Strap Length
The total webbing length including the ratchet body. Common lengths range from 3m to 10m+. Choose based on the distance between anchor points plus tensioning slack required.
Working Load Limit (WLL)
The maximum load a strap is rated to secure under normal use. Always match or exceed the weight of the cargo being secured. Expressed in kg or tonnes.
Breaking Strength
The force at which the strap will fail under laboratory conditions. Typically 3× the WLL. Not a working figure — never use breaking strength as a load guide.
Ratchet Mechanism & Webbing
Ratchet Mechanism
The toothed gear and handle assembly that tensions the webbing. A pawl locks the gear in place, preventing the strap from loosening under load.
Webbing
The polyester flat strap material threaded through the ratchet. Polyester is preferred for cargo securing as it has low stretch, high UV resistance, and is unaffected by moisture.
Tensioning
The process of pulling the webbing taut using the ratchet handle. Correct tensioning prevents cargo movement without over-stressing the strap or the load.
Lashing Capacity (LC)
An EN 12195-2 compliant rating indicating the strap's contribution to securing a load. Used in professional transport to calculate the number of straps required per load.
Standards & Compliance
EN 12195-2
The European standard governing the manufacture and testing of lashing straps. All compliant straps must be marked with WLL, LC, and manufacturer details on the label.
CE Marking
Indicates the strap meets EU safety and performance directives. Required for professional haulage use in the UK and EU.