Straps vs chains - trailering

[CMV]

I don't trailer my tractor often but wonder if ratchet straps are sufficient/safe or are chains necessary?

Pretty light at maybe 2300 lbs for the tractor w/ FEL + any implement. Trailer is a typical landscape/utility with a reinforced mesh back gate and rail all around. 2x 3500 lbs axles, electric brakes, bumper pull. F150 ecoboost w/tow package pulls it.

I like CGU/1-B aircraft tiedown straps. I keep them stored indoors when not in use and they are in great shape. Is there any reason those aren't acceptable and I should be using chains & binders instead? 4 x 5000lbs straps * 50% means that should secure 10,000 lbs & I'm maybe 1/4 of that.

In general, I go from my land to my house which is 10-15 min trip. For that, I can't see taking the extra time with chains when the straps are so much faster. But I can see lending a hand on some family projects 6.5 hrs away, all highway, going thru several states and would want to be safe and legal for a longer trip like that (not meaning I DON'T want to be safe & legal for a short local trip...).

 

[3Lfarms]

Those straps are used to tie down 2000lb bombs as well as nuclear cruise missiles to weapons trailers for transport. You’ll be fine. LOL

 

[CMV]

Thinking of all the big stuff I've ridden with in C-130s, C-141's, & C-5's secured with them that's kinda what I'm thinking, but figured I better get some input.

Not that my machine is huge by any means, it's a lot more than the typical riding mowers or ATVs I generally haul around.

 

[bcp]

Do they have a load rating label a DOT inspector can see?

Bruce

 

[George2615]

The straps are fine but I found they don't last as long as chains. They do get frayed in places. Personally I use 4 chains and ratchet binders for the tractor and either chains or straps for attachments.

 

[StuartDK45SE]

I have dedicated chains, cut to the right length for front and back. I can actually put them on as fast as straps.

 

[oldnslo]

For infrequent use and lighter loads I find straps are far more useful and convenient for me. I have only been stopped and weighed once while hauling my 2400H and the state cops did not seem concerned about me using 3" ratchet straps on four corners.

 

[4570Man]

I prefer chains, but if you can protect the straps from fraying they'll be fine.

 

[bdog]

Do they have a load rating label a DOT inspector can see?

Bruce

Don’t need one. If a label is absent they have a chart based on strap size.
Driver's Handbook on Cargo Securement - Chapter 2: General Cargo Securement Requirements | Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

That being said chains are far better. Straps will work but chains last practically forever and won’t fray or get abrasion damage like straps do.

 

[bcp]

But if not marked, the rating from the chart is often considerably lower, just like for chains.

Bruce