Use Ratchet Straps and Other Boat Trailering Tips

Assuring that you secure your boat trailer is probably the least exciting part of your day on the water. But, having properly functioning equipment - like ratchet straps, winch straps and other trailer straps - can make this job easier, and safer ride home for you, your passengers, and the motoring public. Ratchet straps are the preferred tie down method for boats, but straps come in various lengths, weight ratings, and end hook configurations. So how do you choose which is best for your application?

 

It is important to consider the size of your load. Load safety standards are in place from various government entities, but for boats, the general consensus is that at least three tie down points should be used for smaller vessels, and boats above 10,000 lbs. require a minimum of four tie down points. Quality straps are rated with a working load limit (WLL) and break strength tag or decal. Generally speaking, WLL is one third of break strength, so a 2” wide ratchet strap rated at 10,000 lbs. break strength only has a working load limit of 3,333 lbs. This allows a safety factor so that as you slam on the brakes and G forces are applied to the boat, the strap is able to hold back that 3,333 lbs. To allow that safety margin, federal rules require four of the 3,333 lbs. WLL straps to secure a 10,000 lbs. load.

The theory that your boat is heavy and will stay on the trailer is false. Trailers often have carpeted bunks to reduce friction, and the small metal “bow stand” that your winch is mounted to will break or fold during heavy braking or a crash impact. Your winch strap is probably looking a little faded and weak anyway.

Since the next thing in front of your boat is your tow vehicle (with you in it), PartsVu encourages you to take adequate steps to prevent your boat from jumping onto or over your vehicle. Owners with roller trailers should be especially aware of the opportunity for problems as those trailers can load and unload very easily both forward and aft. In most cases, ratchet straps are superior to cam-buckle straps or rope because you can ratchet them to proper tension. Simply cut your ratchet tie down straps to the proper length to eliminate excess webbing and make installation easier in the future after the first use.

Most boats have metal tie down points like bow eyes and stern eyes as a part of their construction. For vessels that do not, finding a suitable method of securing the boat could include going up and over the gunnels, or looping through cleats. Properly matching the hook for your ratchet strap to the mounting point on your vessel will prevent fiberglass damage. Most big-box retailers do carry ratchet straps, but their twisted wire hooks are not suited to the bow eyes and stern eyes of most vessels. PartsVu uses a flat snap hook that easily clips onto bow eyes and stern eyes without contacting the fiberglass. It also works well for securing race cars, equipment, and bulky items in the bed of your truck. These straps have a WLL of 2,000 lbs. each, so you can use multiple straps on each attachment point to properly cover heavier loads.

We also offer a smaller size all stainless strap for smaller boats. This stainless strap is also ideal for securing motorcycles, ATVs, and personal watercraft. Additionally, avoid straps with nylon webbing which become significantly weaker when wet and will stretch when damp.

It is also important to know that ratchet straps do have a life expectancy. The webbing degrades from exposure to sun, and the hardware will age from saltwater and the environment. While you would not intentionally dunk your ratchets in the ocean, the boat will be wet when you load the trailer, and drips on the straps are a fact of life. As a rough rule, nylon will generally last about five years, and the ratchets and snap hooks should be treated regularly with a good corrosion inhibitor like Boeshield T-9.

You will also need to select an appropriate tie down point on your trailer. Generally, hooks can be installed directly to the trailer frame or bunk brackets, but make sure these points are up to the job and not weathered themselves. Straps from the bow eye of the boat should be installed to pull aft on the boat – holding it from coming forward while also holding it down to the trailer. Straps from the stern of the boat should be installed to pull forward and down – preventing rearward travel. If your trailer does not have suitable mounting points, PartsVu offers a stainless d-ring that can easily be installed anywhere on your trailer frame with a couple of bolts.

Did you know that properly strapping your load can also help prolong the life of your trailer? Aluminum trailer frames are especially prone to flex and fatigue, and by strapping the boat securely to the trailer, you will help eliminate trailer frame flex and bounce. It will also result in a smoother ride for your boat and tow vehicle. Spending a few dollars and a couple minutes to properly secure your cargo will keep your load safe, increase your own peace of mind, and probably result in a more pleasurable trip to the ramp. Just remember to unstrap before launching!

Interested in learning more about operating and maintaining your boat trailer? Check out these articles: Boat Trailer Checklist for Season Breakout Selecting & Installing M-Y Wedge Transom Supports