It’s no secret that ratchet straps or tie-down straps are quite possibly the most effective ways to secure all types of light to mildly heavy loads to your Ute, truck, or trailer. However, have you given any thought to what you can use if you’re moving a very large or significantly heavier load?
Fortunately, you can easily secure your heavier loads with quality ratchet load binders, which you can easily get from the same supplier that provides you with your regular ratchet straps. How do your ratchet load binders work? Are there safety tips you should be aware of? Keep reading as this post answers these questions.
What Exactly are Load Binders?
Ratchet load binders are commonly referred to as chain binders and can be defined as the tension devices that are used in conjunction with chains to secure larger loads. When using the chains, the load binder serves as the ratchet mechanism.
Load binders are available in a wide range of sizes and capacities, and the one you opt for will depend on the type of cargo you plan to secure. These gadgets are typically used to safely secure loads such as heavy machinery on your trailer.
Always Handy to Have
If you’re planning to haul a lot of cargo in varying sizes, it’s always a good idea to invest in both ratchet straps and load binders to ensure you’re prepared, no matter how big or small your next load is going to be. Our cargo specialists have compiled a list of a few pointers to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to use the load binders for the first time.
1. Know Which Load Binder Type You’ll Need
As we’ve already mentioned, load binders are available in a wide range of sizes. That said, it’s essential to know which one you need to use. There are two common options to choose from:
- Ratchet load binder: As the name suggests, this type of load binder uses a ratcheting mechanism. This means that there’s very little tension build-up, which in turn makes this a safer and more efficient option. These types of binders boast two tension hooks, which are known as a cam and a handle. There’s also a strong prawl mechanism that creates a smooth ratcheting move to easily secure thin or thick chains. The use of a handle creates minimal pulling force, making it super easy to loosen or secure.
- Lever load binder: Often regarded to be the easiest load binder to use when you’re prepared to unload your cargo. Our experts want to highlight that tension builds up in the binder as it’s secured. The user must then expect this when releasing the binder. These binder types also require more pulling force to release and extra tension to tighten.
2. Follow these Basic Steps for First Time Use
Using your load binder for the first time doesn’t have to stress you out. We’ve shared the key steps to make the process quick and simple:
- Open the load binder: Start by opening the load binder to its complete extension. Next, hook the chain to the existing tension hooks on the load binder.
- Set the hook & anchor points: One end near the cargo needs securing, hook your binder here. The other end needs to hook to the bottom of the same chain, but on the anchor point. Pull the chain as tightly as possible.
- Tighten the chain: Next, tighten the chain by pulling the lever down and adjusting as much as needed to safely secure the cargo. Gently tug at the chain to ensure that it’s not loose.
- Check attachments: If the chain is still loose after you have tightened it, reposition the binder attachment and attempt the process again. Loosen a link or two at the attachment point and check if this is effective.
- Wrap: Once the links have been secured, it’s crucial to wrap up and secure all the excess chain. Ensure that there aren’t any loose chains.
3. Put Safety First, No Matter What You’re Hauling
Load restraint binders are by far not the biggest cargo securing gadgets you can use. However, despite being small gadgets, it’s essential to use them as safely as possible. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Liase with your load restraint supplier for the right binder for your cargo and chain type.
- Don’t climb on top of the cargo while securing the binder.
- Never lean over the binder when securing or loosening it, as this can lead to injury.
- Don’t rush the process. Take the time to do it properly.
- Wearing gloves gives you a better grip on the chain and binder.
Final Thoughts
By using the right type of load binder, you’ll easily be able to ensure that your heavy cargo is secured correctly and safely. Start the process by buying the right mechanism for your type of cargo. Incorporate those with our tips, and you’ll be easily moving cargo of all shapes and sizes in record time!
