How much weight can ratchet straps hold?

Ratchet straps are used to secure cargo of all different shapes and sizes across a wide variety of vehicles, from cars to heavy goods lorries.

How much weight can a ratchet strap hold?

Ratchet straps can be used to restrain loads of anywhere between 400kg and 5,000kg.

However, they come in many different sizes and strengths and choosing the right ratchet strap for the job is key to ensuring that cargo is held in place securely.

So, an answer to the question “How strong are ratchet straps?” isn’t straightforward.

The maximum weight a ratchet strap can safely hold depends on several factors, including its width, materials, and rating.

Understanding ratchet strap ratings

Ratchet straps are only safe to use if they’ve been tested and certified to European standards.

A certified ratchet strap should have a label sewn onto it (usually on the webbing near the ratchet mechanism).

The label should state that the product complies with the relevant European standards and provide details about the strap’s Lashing Capacity (LC), Breaking Strength (BS), and length.

The lashing capacity is the maximum tension the strap should be subjected to, measured in daN (decanewtons).

The breaking strength is the force at which a strap is likely to fail, and the lashing capacity is usually about half of the breaking strength.

Ratchet strap weight limits by strap width

We’ve created a guide to typical load capacities (also known as the weight load limit) based on strap width.

Always check the label on your ratchet strap first, as these can vary.

Ratchet strap width	Load capacity (LC)	Application
25mm (1 inch)	Up to 400-750kg LC	Ideal for light loads, small machinery, and bikes.
35mm (1.38 inches)	Up to 1,000 – 1,500kg LC	Suitable for medium-duty applications like vehicle recovery and in lightweight commercial vans.
50mm (2 inch)	Up to 2,500kg LC	Used for heavy goods and general transport.
75mm (2.95 inches) and above	4,000 – 5,000 kg LC	Heavy-duty straps for industrial use and large machinery.

What are the legal requirements when selecting a ratchet strap?

Everyone involved in transporting the cargo has a legal responsibility to ensure that the right strap is used.

This includes:

• Ensuring loads are secured to prevent movement under normal driving conditions

• Only using certified ratchet straps

• Not overloading ratchet straps

• Using multiple straps to distribute a load

Need help selecting a ratchet strap for the job?

At Load Straps & Slings, we sell a wide range of certified ratchet straps that deliver safe and dependable performance.

We also offer a fast and efficient delivery service; most of our products are available with next-day delivery, providing you place an order before 3pm.

Browse our range of ratchet straps online, or contact us by calling 020 3978 2137.

Alternatively, send an email to sales@loadstraps.co.uk if you can’t find what you’re looking for.