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Best Ratchet Straps

Keep your cargo secure and your ride ding-free with the best ratchet straps.
Written and Tested By:
Ben Kasierski
Written and Tested By: Ben Kasierski Contributor – Motor1 Review Team

Ben Kasierski is a North Carolina native who covers the latest automotive and motorcycle products. He has tested hundreds of car detailing products – including tire shines,  car wash soaps, and full detailing kits – as well as gadgets to make life easier for the everyday driver like key finders and GPS trackers.

Last Updated 01/09/2024

Motor1 Reviews Team Take:

  • The best ratchet straps are from top brands including Rhino USA, Rocket Straps, Augo, and Vulcan based on installation, tightness, accessories, and value.
  • Ranging from $25—$70, ratchet straps are a small price to pay for protecting your valuables. With an average cost of just under $40 among the ratchet straps in this review, they will save you money in the long haul.
  • Straps with easy installation that tightly secure cargo will give you peace of mind and scored highest during our testing.
Best Overall
Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps

These ratchet straps come with formidable power.

Runner-Up
Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps

Soft hook ratchet straps with great hold.

Best
Ratchet Straps Kit
Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack

Amazon’s Choice for best ratchet straps available.

Easiest Installation
Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps

Easy-to-use ratchet straps with little installation hassle.

Best
Heavy-Duty
Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks

Reliable heavy-duty ratchet straps for large cargo.

Ratchet straps are useful for securing items to your vehicle, keeping both your vehicle and your cargo damage-free. They can be used for tying down boxes to a trailer, fastening luggage onto a roof rack, or even fixing a kayak onto your car for a lake trip. Whatever you need to move, choosing the best ratchet straps is essential for safe travel and peace of mind when transporting large cargo.

In this review, we discuss the best ratchet straps on the market and what makes them stand out from the rest. All of the straps in this roundup were tested by members of our product team. For more information on how to choose the best ratchet straps for your needs, check out our buyers guide at the end of this review.


Ratchet Straps Reviews

One of our product testers installing a ratchet strap onto a vehicle.

To review each product, our team thoroughly researched and evaluated each ratchet strap based on its installation difficulty, strength, accessories, and overall value. The scores in each category are compiled into a single overall rating that ranges from 1.0 to 5.0 stars.

What Is The Best Ratchet Strap?

We named ratchet straps from Rhino USA, Rocket Straps, Augo, and Vulcan as the best-rated ratchet straps on the market in 2024.

Brand/ModelCostOverall RatingAward

Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps

$35

4.9

Best Overall

Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps

$30

4.8

Runner-Up

Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack

$30

4.8

Best Ratchet Straps Kit

Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps

$30

4.5

Easiest Installation

Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks

$75

4.4

Best Heavy-Duty

*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.

Ratchet Strap Ratings: Our Testing Process

We first selected each ratchet strap by searching Amazon and other vendors for top-selling products. We looked at factors like two-day shipping eligibility, customer ratings, vendor superlatives, and prices. Our team ordered the five ratchet straps that best met these standards and each item was rated out of 5.0 stars based on its performance.

Learn more about how we tested ratchet straps here.

1. Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps: Best Overall

The Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps attached to a truck bed.
  • Cost: $35
  • Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5.0 (approx. 15,000 ratings)
  • What’s in the box: Four 1.0-inch by 15.0-foot ratchet straps, four 1.0-in. by 15.0-ft. spare loop hitches, a carrying bag, and a set of Rhino USA stickers
  • 1,823.0-pound Working Load Limit (WLL)
  • Polyester-silk blend coated 1.0-in. by 15.0-ft. straps
  • Ergonomic locking ratchet buckle
  • Anodized ratchet
  • End-capped padded handles
  • Full-bend S-hooks
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Multiple color options

Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps Review

There are many reasons to love the Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps, such as their medium length of 15.0 ft. per strap. This length makes them ideal for car use so there isn’t too much spare strap to tie down. The bodies of the straps are coated in a full polyester-silk blend to prevent tearing and water damage. With their ergonomic padded handles and locking coated S-hooks, these Rhino straps are just as easy to assemble as they are to dismantle.

You can see how the Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Installation5.0
Tightness5.0
Accessories5.0
Value4.5
Overall Rating4.9

Below are the pros and cons of the Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps:

Pros Lifetime warranty Ergonomic ratchet buckles Carrying bag included
Cons Narrow straps

Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps: Our Experience

Based on our experience with the Rhino USA ratchet straps, we rated the product 4.9 out of 5.0 stars. The straps were easy to install and stayed tight throughout our tests, and the additional soft belt loops were very handy for fixing the straps to our testing vehicle’s frame without scratching it. The only thing these straps lost points on was their width, which is narrower than most of the best ratchet straps.

Installation: Setting up these straps was very easy. We hooked the S-hook to one side of our truck and the opposing ratchet end to the other, and the two attached together with little hassle. We especially liked that Rhino USA included a step-by-step instruction manual with images to demonstrate how to best use their straps.

Tightness: We had no problems tightening these straps, and they didn’t come loose with pressure. The locking ratchet buckle didn’t take more than a few clicks to create a secure hold.

Accessories: Rhino USA went above and beyond when they designed this kit. On top of the four ratchet straps, Rhino USA included spare belt loops, a carrying bag, and stickers. We were also impressed with the instructions they included for how to use and store their straps.

Value: These straps come at a low price compared to competitors and offer just as much, or even more, support than other pods. The narrowness of the straps is hard to look past, however, since they are only 1.0 in. wide and limited because of this.

The Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps in the packaging box.

Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps: What Customers Are Saying

A majority of the written reviews are positive, with satisfied customers commending their Rhino USA straps for their versatility and strength. One customer even wrote that they use their straps on a daily basis for tying production equipment around for transport and their straps haven’t faltered even with extensive use.

Negative customer feedback is mostly centered around Rhino USA’s advertising and not the straps. Although they say that their products are ‘designed and engineered’ in the United States, the straps themselves are manufactured in China. Many complain that this is false advertising by Rhino USA.

2. Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps: Runner-Up

The Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps in a packaging box.
  • Cost: $30
  • Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5.0 (approx. 1,100 ratings)
  • What’s in the box: Four 1.0-in. by 17.0-ft. ratchet straps, four 1.0-in. by 12.0-ft. soft loops, and a carrying bag.
  • 1,760.0-lb. WLL
  • Polyester 1.0-in. by 17.0-ft. straps
  • Wire-gate S-hooks
  • Waterproof, rustproof, and scratch-resistant
  • Ergonomic ratchet handle
  • Lifetime warranty

Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps Review

Performing similarly to the Rhino USA straps, Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps are a slightly longer, more vibrant alternative. They have an extra 2.0 ft. of length than the Rhino USA straps, plus they’re more competitively priced. The major difference between these two straps is the material: the Rocket Straps are made of polyester. This makes them more prone to wear and tear over time.

You can see how the Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Installation5.0
Tightness5.0
Accessories5.0
Value4.0
Overall Rating4.8

Below are the pros and cons of the Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps:

Pros Step-by-step instructions Waterproof, rustproof, and scratch-resistant Lifetime warranty
Cons Low WLL

Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps: Our Experience

Our product review team awarded the Rocket Straps ratchet straps a 4.8 out of 5.0 stars. Their soft hooks and size made them great for tying onto our testing vehicle. Points were lost for these straps’ lower-quality materials and low WLL.

Installation: Installing the Rocket Straps was very simple. The kit included instructions that gave us a clear step-by-step visual, and the straps stayed locked onto our vehicle. Taking them off was quick and painless.

Tightness: We were able to ratchet the straps down to full tightness without expending much energy. The straps even stayed tight after use.

Accessories: The belt loops were great for securing straps to our vehicle’s frame, and the bag helped keep our straps organized and safe from environmental damage.

Value: Rocket Straps ratchet straps are one of the most inexpensive kits on Amazon but at the expense of their quality. A polyester-only body is more prone to damage than a blended one, and the Rocket Straps’ 1,760.0-lb. WLL limits them to smaller loads.

The Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps attached to the exterior of a truck.

Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps: What Customers Are Saying

Top reviews of these ratchet straps are mixed, with the most-shared review scorching these straps for their poor longevity. Positive reviews claim these straps are great for moving large objects like dressers and couches. Negative reviews cite short lifespans and bleeding colors as the reason for their low ratings.

3. Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack: Best Ratchet Straps Kit

The Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack in their packaging box.
  • Cost: $30
  • Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5.0 (approx. 21,000 ratings)
  • What’s in the box: Four 1.0-in. by 15.0-ft. Augo ratchet straps, four 1.0-in. by 12.0-ft. soft loop tie-downs, two 36.0-in. bungee cords, and one premium storage bag.
  • 2,200.0-lb. WLL
  • Ultra-durable stitching
  • Polyester weather-resistant webbing
  • Ergonomic handles
  • Rubber-coated S hooks
  • Quick-release latch
  • Available in red, blue, or black
  • Limited warranty

Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps Review

The Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack is Amazon’s Choice for “ratchet straps,” and with good reason. This kit is a beginner’s delight, packed with ratchet straps, tie-down loops, a storage bag, and even bungee cords. Although only 15.0 ft. long and 1.0 in. wide, these straps have a WLL of 2,200.0 lbs., so they can securely transport anything from a few small boxes to a UTV.

You can see how the Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Installation5.0
Tightness4.5
Accessories5.0
Value4.5
Overall Rating4.8

Below are the pros and cons of the Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps:

Pros Water-resistant Quick-release hatch
Cons Limited warranty

Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps: Our Experience

The Augo kit earned 4.8 out of 5.0 stars for its ease of use and bountiful accessories. It lost points for its shorter length.

Installation: There was no hassle when installing these ratchet straps to our vehicle. The kit came with detailed instructions on how to set up the straps and storage techniques to extend their life.

Tightness: These straps had no problem tightening and created a very strong hold. However, our team noticed that there was very little extra strap to work with once tightened. This is due to the Augo’s 15.0-ft. length, which is shorter than most ratchet straps.

Accessories: This was the best kit for extra accessories hands down. The soft loops were helpful for latching onto the frame of our testing vehicle. We also thought the bungee cords added an extra layer of security.

Value: With its current listing price on Amazon, the Augo kit gives other straps a run for their money. It offers more accessories than its competitors, but the build quality and limited warranty weaken its long-term value.

The Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack attached across a truck bed.

Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps: What Customers Are Saying

By feature, the Augo kit scored highly for its versatility, value for money, and ease of use. Positive reviews of the Argo kit complement its longevity even after extensive use in harsh weather conditions. Some negative reviews claim their straps began to rust shortly after purchasing them.

4. Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps: Easiest Installation

The Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps.
  • Cost: $30
  • Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5.0 (approx. 800 ratings)
  • What’s in the box: Four 1.0-in. by 15.0-ft. Augo ratchet straps, four 1.0-in. by 12.0-ft. soft loop tie-downs, and one carrying bag.
  • 1,700.0-lb. break strength
  • Polyester webbing
  • Durable stitching
  • Rubber-coated S-hooks
  • Ergonomic handles
  • Limited warranty

Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps Review

Installation can make or break how well a set of ratchet straps performs. Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps are incredibly easy to install with their locking S-hooks that can attach to nearly any surface.

You can see how the Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Installation5.0
Tightness4.5
Accessories4.5
Value4.0
Overall Rating4.5

Below are the pros and cons of the Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps:

Pros Easy installation Rubber-coated hooks
Cons Short strap length

Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps: Our Experience

We scored these Augo straps at 4.5 out of 5.0 stars. They were very simple to install and performed well under our testing conditions.

Installation: Installation was very easy with these straps. The S-hooks latched onto our vehicle with no problem and stayed firm as we tightened our straps.

Tightness: These straps tightened with a few clicks and stayed tight with little wobbling.

Accessories: This kit comes with soft loops and a carrying bag, putting it on par with some of our other choices in this roundup.

Value: Fairly priced compared to other ratchet strap kits on Amazon, this Augo kit offers many of the same features as its competitors at a similar price. The only downside to this kit is its straps’ lengths are shorter than most others.

The Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps attached across a truck bed.

Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps: What Customers Are Saying

Amazon reviews skew positive for this Augo kit. Many positive reviews praise the Augo kit for remaining tight under various weather conditions and holding down moving loads on trailers, specifically using D-rings and O-rings. Some negative reviews claim their straps snapped under little pressure.

5. Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks: Best Heavy-Duty

The Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks.
  • Cost: $75
  • Amazon review score: 4.8 out of 5.0 (approx. 40 ratings)
  • What’s in the box: Two 2.0-in. by 27.0-ft. Vulcan ratchet straps
  • 3,330.0-lb. WLL
  • Ultra-durable hard plastic-coated edges
  • Optic Orange Extra Durable webbing
  • Flat hooks
  • Coated weatherproof end fittings
  • Heavy-duty alloy steel wide ratchet buckle
  • One-year limited warranty

Vulcan Tie Down Straps Review

Unlike other ratchet straps, heavy-duty ratchet straps are designed to handle immense weight loads without suffering major wear. Vulcan Tie Down Straps are professional-grade quality with a WLL of up to 3,330.0 lbs. Their flat hooks create a sealed grip against any surface they’re latched on to and ensure a secure fit.

You can see how the Vulcan Tie Down Straps performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Installation4.0
Tightness5.0
Accessories3.5
Value5.0
Overall Rating4.4

Below are the pros and cons of the Vulcan Tie Down Straps:

Pros Weatherproof end fittings Secure fit
Cons One-year limited warranty No instruction manual No extra accessories or carrying bag

Vulcan Tie Down Straps: Our Experience

After testing the Vulcan ratchet straps, we awarded them an overall score of 4.4 out of 5.0 stars. They’re incredibly durable and create a very tight lock on cargo. Installing them can be tricky, though.

Installation: Vulcan doesn’t provide an instruction manual with these ratchet straps, so users must already be familiar with how to set them up. The flat hooks do not stick well unless the strap already has tension in it, so two people are necessary to secure them down. And be ready for a lot of excess strap once your cargo is locked in.

Tightness: Tightening the Vulcan straps took some extra effort, given their 2.0-in. width and heavyweight materials. Once tightened, it was nearly impossible to undo these straps.

Accessories: This kit didn’t come with any extra accessories such as a carrying bag for protected storage.

Value: Because they were professional-grade, these straps cost more than most others on the market. Their relatively more expensive price only gets customers the two straps, whereas other kits with more tools can be purchased for half of the price. Although more costly, the Vulcans are made with high-quality materials and are built to last a lifetime.

The Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks attached to the exterior of a truck.

Vulcan Tie Down Straps: What Customers Are Saying

Customers on Amazon love the Vulcan ratchet straps. Written reviews on Amazon commend these straps for having superb durability when transporting large cargo, even after daily use.


Ratchet Straps Buying Guide

For those who are new to using ratchet straps, we’ve provided a buyers guide with some key ratchet strap information.

Compare Ratchet Straps

Brand/ModelWorking Load Limit
(WLL)
End-FittingMaterial
Rhino USA1,823.0 lbs.S-hookPolyester-silk blend
Rocket Straps1,760.0 lbs.S-hookPolyester
Augo2,200.0 lbs.S-hookWeather-resistant Polyester
Augo Extra Strong1,700.0-lbs.S-hookPolyester webbing
Vulcan3,330.0 lbs.Flat hookPROSeries webbing

What Are Ratchet Straps?

Ratchet straps are cargo tie-down straps that are used for securing cargo onto vehicles. They are typically made of durable polyester or nylon webbing. Unlike rope, ratchet straps do not need to be tied using knots: a ratchet mechanism cranks the straps down until there is enough tension to drive freely with a secured load.

Types Of Ratchet Straps

Ratchet straps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with each able to maintain various Working Load Limits (WLL), or the maximum amount of weight for safe transporting. There are four widths of ratchet straps:

  • 1.0-inch straps: Working Load Limit (WLL) of up to 3,333.0 lbs.
  • 2.0-inch straps: WLL of 3,333.0 lbs.
  • 3.0-inch straps: WLL of 5,000.0 lbs.
  • 4.0-inch straps: WLL of 5,400.0 lbs.

If your load exceeds the weight limit of your straps, it’s best to use more than one strap to secure it. Using multiple straps takes tension off any individual strap and increases safety. For more information on how many straps are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration when transporting different types of cargo, check out this helpful breakdown of their rules and regulations.

End-fittings also play a key role in a ratchet strap’s functionality. There are four types of end-fittings for ratchet straps:

  • Flat hooks: These have a low-profile design and are typically made of steel or a similar metal. Compatible with flat anchor points, flat hooks can also hook to other ratchet straps.
  • J-hooks: Also known as wire hooks, J-hooks typically require an anchor point such as a D-ring or O-ring for the most stable fit. Many truck beds come equipped with these rings pre-installed.
  • S-hooks: Similar to J-hooks, S-hooks require an anchor point to attach to a vehicle. An important feature of S-hooks is that they have a locking function to prevent slippage.
  • Chain hooks: These must be connected to another chain end-fitting to function. They are typically forged from steel alloy and are incredibly strong, commonly used for automotive shipping or towing.

Best Ratchet Straps: Bottom Line

In this article, along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing ratchet straps, we reviewed the top ratchet straps in 2024:

  1. Best Overall: Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps
  2. Runner-Up: Rocket Straps Tie Down Straps
  3. Best Ratchet Straps Kit: Augo Ratchet Tie Down Straps 4-Pack
  4. Easiest Installation: Augo Extra Strong Ratchet Straps
  5. Best Heavy-Duty: Vulcan Tie Down Straps With Flat Hooks

Ratchet Straps: FAQ

Below are some common frequently asked questions about ratchet straps: 

How often should you replace ratchet straps?

A set of ratchet straps should last anywhere from two to four years depending on their usage. They can be damaged over time from overuse, moisture, direct sunlight, and mildew, so check your straps regularly and store them properly.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing ratchet straps?

The three most important things to consider are: Working Weight Limit (WLL), grip design, and length and width of the strap. All of these factors determine how suitable a ratchet strap is for the job at hand. Ratchet straps with a higher WLL, chain or flat hook, and greater length and width will be better for very heavy loads such as automotive shipping.

Is it possible to overtighten a ratchet strap?

Yes, overtightening a ratchet strap can cause lasting damage. If you hit the release handle on your ratchet strap and it doesn’t easily unravel from the buckle, then it is too tight. Be sure to check the tightness of your ratchet strap every time you tie down a load.

Can I use ratchet straps to transport a vehicle?

Transporting a vehicle requires more than just ratchet straps: you will need an axle strap, a flatbed or pickup truck with a trailer, and e-track support rails. Consult your vehicle’s manufacturer to learn the safest methods of moving your vehicle.


Full Ratchet Straps Testing Methodology

Each set of ratchet straps was evaluated based on the following criteria:

Installation: This determines how easily the ratchet straps could be attached to our testing vehicle. The shape of the straps’ hooks, the buckle feature, and the durability of the straps’ bodies were all variable.

Tightness: How tightly the straps could be wound was vital to its purpose. Straps that could be tightened without loosening scored better in this category.

Accessories: Many ratchet straps on Amazon come with various accessories such as bungee cords, extra fasteners, and carrying bags. Ratchet straps that came with usable extras were awarded points.

Value: This serves as a measurement of the quality of the straps compared to their asking price on Amazon. Straps that performed better at a lower price earned points.

How We Score Products

Star ratings help us differentiate between products so we can provide an honest review of the best ratchet straps on the market. We calculated an average of 4.7 out of 5.0 stars among the ratchet straps in this review.

  • 5.0 Stars: A 5.0-star rating is a well above average score meaning the product exceeded our expectations while testing. For example, if installation took little to no time and was easy for us to tighten securely, you’ll see a 5.0-star rating.
  • 4.0 Stars: A 4.0-star rating is an above-average score when considering the ratchet straps in this review. This means we were pleased with the performance of the ratchet straps, but one aspect maybe didn’t deserve a 5.0-star rating if the price was higher than other similar products.
  • 3.0 Stars: A 3.0-star rating is an average score for the products we tested. For example, if there was slight difficulty with installing a set of ratchet straps, but they still adhered securely, you would see an average score for installation and tightness.
  • 2.0 Stars: A 2.0-star rating is a below-average rating for the ratchet straps in this review. If the strap seems to lack durability or tightening ability to safely secure any cargo, you’d see a 2.0-star rating.
  • 1.0 Star: While rarely seen in our reviews, a 1.0-star rating for ratchet straps would be given in at least one of our testing criteria if part of the ratchet strap was defective or broke during our testing process.

Why Trust Motor1.com

Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.

We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.

*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.