flat bed equipment

I would start out with at least 10 3/8" M70 grade chains that are 20' long. I like snap binders, but you can go with ratchet binders. You will need at least 10 of them. You also need at least 10 4" straps. I would get a couple of extra's in case you cut one. You will need 20 chain protectors, 20 edge protectors for your straps. I would also get a minimum of 2 sets of coil racks, 5 would be better. You should have 2 4"x4" beveled pieces of hardwood to cradle your coils. 2 pieces of belting for each coil rack would also be good. I would get a set of tarps. 2 steel and 1 lumber tarp with 8' drops would cover most anything. Get some carpet or blankets to protect tarps. You can get 6' blankets at Harbor Freight for about $10 or less. You will also need straps. I would start with a box of 50 21" straps. I think that is all you should need to get started. I keep a few hand ratchets for loads where I need them. While I mentioned 10 4" straps, I would buy enough for all the winches you have on your trailer. You will need 2 edge protectors for each strap. Some trailers have 12 or 13 winches. What I noted is the minimum.

 

Adding to g/man's list, I'd get few 2" ratchet straps, at least 4 1" shackles, and a ladder.

 

At one time I kept 13 2" ratchet straps on my trucks. They really come in handy. I had a load the other day which I had to use every 2" strap, a couple of 4" strap and all the winches on the trailer in order to secure it. I met a guy once who had a great ladder for flat bedders. It collapsed down to about 6' and expanded to enable him to get on top of any load. I have a couple of places on my step deck that doesn't have a way to use the sliding winches due to my container locks and sliding rear axle. For those places I use 4" ratchet straps. As time passes you may find other things that you want to add. I would not over buy starting out. Once you start hauling you will find more of what you are going to need.

 

Also I would reccommend 2 boxes of 21" bungee's if you are going to carry a full set of 8' drop tarps, 2 different length winch bars, a good pocket knife, as well as all the other stuff listed already. I would also consider some 5/16" chains as well for smaller and lighter stuff, and for header chains. The smaller chains make it a little easier sometimes, but just make sure you use them according to their WLL

 

If you are going with ratchet binders, I suggest the Quickbinders. They have fold down handles and store much easier than regular ratchet binders. Cost a little more, but worth it.

 

Walmart sells this ladder for $139 on their website, but it was only $79 when i went to my local store and bought it and it has been a great help. I keep mine inside my headache rack and use it all the time. It extends out to 13' tall

http://www.walmart.com/ip/COSCO-13-World-s-Greatest-Ladder/11150978

I have also ran into a guy who had this ladder and it was really nice if you have limited storage space, but about $100 more

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Xtend-Climb-Pro-Series-785P-15.5-Telescoping-Ladder/14971895

 

I bought a similar foldup ladder from Home Depot, except it is a 17 footer. Got lucky and caught it on sale for under $100.

 

You need a ladder just to climb up to your seat at the lunch counter LOL

 

Smartarse! Keep it up and I'll beat the heck out of your kneecaps.