Load Straps, Chain/Straps. Chains. What type/size to buy

What do you haul, thats fine for just about all general freight.

 

I prefer 3/8s for flat bed and 6 axle step and rgn, but 5/16s really is,ok

 

Depends entirely in the weight of what your hauling. 5/16 are good for tying down dunnage/tarps. Small pieces. You have to do the math with our chain ratings and weight of load. Be very careful with this!!! For your own safety, and You will be checked. Me jus 3wks ago in Ok. Very through, checked rating on hooks, chains and stretch links. All good
my 2cents....start out all g-7's, 6-20' 3/8...6-10' 3/8...6-4" straps w/ratchets.
about 15 3/8 ratchet binders you'll need the extras. I avoid snap binders, seen to many friends get hurt w them.
NEVER EVER!!!! Skimp on safety...and you'll make it thru the learning curve..
tarps?? Aren't those some kind of fish?
good luck.

 

If you're not pulling an RGN or a heavy duty stepdeck with 10000WLL D Rings, there's really no point in buying 1/2 inch chain. Most flats and steps have a 6000-6600 lb WLL rating on their rings, spools and pockets. What's the point in carry around big chain when you will still need the same number of securement points as 3/8 chains?

 

When I was still driving I used to use 1/2 and 3/8 lifting grade on the oversize/weight loads we did.
On our general cargo flats we use 3/8 chain and binders as we do on our heavy haul units but on the heavy haul units these are of lifting grade.
The difference in price is about 400% but no point in using this on general type trailers as stated before the limited rating of the lashing points render the extra on rating on the chains pointless.