How to Choose the Right Towing and Lashing Equipment for Trucks

Transporting heavy loads safely is one of the top priorities for any trucking or logistics business. Whether you’re moving vehicles, machinery, or building materials, using reliable towing and lashing equipment for trucks is critical to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency.

The right cargo securing system not only protects your cargo and trucks but also reduces downtime and minimizes the risk of accidents or damage on the road.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to select the right towing and lashing products — including towing chains, ratchet straps, lashing chains, and load binders — and why working with an experienced manufacturer like Qingdao Kailipu can make all the difference.

1. Understanding the Types of Towing and Lashing Equipment For Trucks

Truck cargo securing systems include many different products designed for specific load types and work environments. Here are the main categories:

1.1 Ratchet Straps and Trailer Straps

Ratchet straps, also called lashing straps or tie-down straps, are one of the most widely used tools for securing light to medium cargo. Made from durable polyester webbing, they’re lightweight, flexible, and easy to operate.

Advantages:

• Smooth tensioning with the ratchet mechanism

• Prevents cargo movement during transport

• Non-scratching surface ideal for delicate goods

• Available in multiple lengths and load capacities

 

 

1.2 Lashing Chains and Trailer Chains

For heavy-duty loads, lashing chains offer superior strength and longevity compared to webbing straps. They are used in flatbed transport, industrial hauling, and heavy machinery shipping.

Common Grades:

• G70 (Transport chain): Suitable for general truck and trailer lashing.

• G80 / G100 (Alloy steel chain): Designed for demanding, high-tension operations.

Advantages:

• Higher Working Load Limit (WLL) than straps

• Long service life in tough environments

• Compatible with a variety of hooks and load binders

 

 

1.3 Towing Chains and Rescue Chains

Towing chains are essential for roadside recovery, rescue, and towing operations. They’re made from high-strength alloy steel to withstand shock loads and dynamic tension.

Key Features:

• Excellent resistance to wear and deformation

• Compatible with slip hooks, grab hooks, and shackles

• Available in different lengths and grades to match towing requirements

 

 

1.4 Load Binders and Tensioning Tools

A load binder (also called a chain binder) is used to tighten and secure lashing chains when anchoring cargo on flatbeds or trailers. There are two main types:

• Lever Load Binder: Quick operation, ideal for frequent use.

• Ratchet Load Binder: Offers controlled tensioning and safer handling.

Best Practices:

• Always match the load binder’s WLL to the chain’s grade.

• Check threads and pivot points regularly for wear or damage.

 

 

1.5 Winches, Hooks, and Other Accessories

Every cargo securing system is only as strong as its weakest component. Accessories like winches, hooks, shackles, and D-rings are critical to maintain tension and ensure safety.

 

2. Matching Equipment to Your Operation

Choosing the right combination of towing and lashing equipment for trucks depends on your cargo type and working environment:

Each combination forms a complete cargo securing system, optimized for both performance and safety.

 

3. Key Considerations Before Buying

When selecting your towing or lashing equipment, pay attention to the following factors:

3.1 Working Load Limit (WLL)

Always ensure each component’s WLL exceeds the maximum expected load. Overloading or using mismatched grades can lead to failure and safety violations.

3.2 Chain Grade and Material

• G43: General-purpose chain for lighter work.

• G70: Transport-grade chain widely used in trucking.

• G80 / G100: High-strength alloy steel for professional towing and recovery.

3.3 Surface Treatment

Galvanized, powder-coated, or zinc-plated finishes protect against corrosion and extend the equipment’s lifespan, especially for outdoor or marine applications.

3.4 Compatibility

All parts — from the load binder to the ratchet strap — must be compatible in WLL, size, and connection type. Mixing incompatible components can weaken the system.

3.5 Certification and Compliance

Choose products that comply with EN 12195-3, ASTM, or US DOT standards to ensure reliability and legal compliance in international logistics operations.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced operators should watch out for:

• Using straps or chains beyond their rated capacity

• Mixing components of different grades

• Reusing frayed or stretched ratchet straps

• Over-tightening, which can damage cargo or anchor points

Regular inspection and proper maintenance will keep your cargo securing system safe and long-lasting.

5. Why Choose Qingdao Kailipu

At Qingdao Kailipu, we manufacture and export a comprehensive range of towing and lashing equipment for trucks, including:

• Ratchet straps and lashing straps

• Lashing chains and towing chains

• Load binders and chain tensioners

• Winches, hooks, shackles, and other cargo securing accessories

With over twelve years of experience in rigging and transport hardware manufacturing, we combine:

• Professional-grade materials and heat treatment processes

• Strict quality inspection for every production batch

• Competitive pricing backed by an efficient supply chain

Our products meet international safety standards and are trusted by clients in logistics, transportation, and construction industries worldwide. Whether you manage a truck fleet or run a trading business, our team can help you build a reliable and efficient cargo securing system suited to your market.

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6. Conclusion

Choosing the right towing and lashing equipment for trucks — including towing chains, load binders, lashing chains, and ratchet straps — is essential for safe and efficient cargo transport. The right combination ensures your cargo stays secure, your operations stay compliant, and your business maintains its professional reputation.

If you’re looking for dependable, certified, and cost-effective cargo securing systems, Qingdao Kailipu is ready to support your needs.
📩 Contact us today to request a quotation or get expert advice for your next project.

📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.qd-kailipu.com