Straps versus Chains

Straps versus Chains    

One of the biggest dilemmas for carhaulers is whether to buy a strap unit or a chain unit. While chains are still popular among many autohaulers, many manufacturers will only allow their cars to be hauled with straps as the tie down method. Some Manufacturers like Toyota require 100% compliance with the total strap use policy

Strap trailers make it easier to secure your loads

The reasons are pretty simple. Chains put pressure on the frame of the car. After one or two trips with chains there WILL be damage to the vehicle. While chains offer the ability to reduce height, straps are much safer on the frame of a vehicle. Some vehicles don’t even have eyelits any more for chains. This is a risk that car sellers just do not want to take. Thus a migration has begun for many carhaulers and fleet managers to begin outfitting their vehicles with straps or purchasing new strap units altogether.

Another huge advantage that Straps have over chains is that they put a lot less pressure on the driver. Chains require the driver to secure the vehicle on top of and under the ramp. This requires additional reach and strain on both your back, shoulders, and knees. Over time this can lead to a repetitive strain injury. Straps prevent this by requiring that the vehicle only be secured on top of the ramp from a standing position. For this reason alone straps have a huge advantage for the long term health of the driver.

Regardless there is still a big following of carhaulers who prefer chains. There are some interesting solutions. Some drivers purchase straps and use them in tandem with their chain unit. “Some carhaulers come in and buy 30 to 40 straps at a time to outfit their chain units” according to E.Jacoby, carhauler specialist at East Coast Truck and Trailer. As long as the customer does not require a truck that was designed for strap use only, this is a versatile solution.

While we still sell a lot of chain units, strap units are definitely the future. Manufacturer mandates ,coupled with huge improvements in driver loading ergonomics, give strap units a lot of appeal. Here at East Coast Truck and Trailer we still carry both types. We also sell straps individually that are made in America, both in our store and online. Whatever direction you choose to go, we have you covered.

New Strap Trailer At ECTTS