Cam Buckle Straps Vs Ratchet Straps: Best Tie Down Options Explained

As a trucker, you know the importance of using the best gear in hauling your cargo during transportation.

Having the right straps secure your loads and make your every mile safe and successful becomes necessary. In the world of straps, there are two widely recognized types – Ratchet Straps and Cam Buckle Straps.

While many individuals get confused differentiating between these two, we decided to settle the confusion for once and all. In this blog about cam straps vs ratchet straps, we will cover the key differences between them so that you can know the straps you need to do your job.

Ratchet Straps

They are known for providing phenomenal tension to straps while securing cargo. Ratchet straps have established their name and are used in commercial and domestic practices.

Common uses: They are primarily used on vans, flatbeds, pickup trucks, and low loaders.

Pros: Ratchet straps show their efficiency in securing cargo securely and reliably. They are proficient in handling heavy weights and easy to use.

Cons: It needs appropriate practice as over-tightening of cargo happens to many first-time users.

When to use: If you want to provide better tension control on large-size items, ratchet straps are an excellent choice you can make.

Cam Buckle Straps

cam buckle straps are crafted for light-size cargo, providing easy usability and convenience as absolute aspects. They are appropriate for securing small size and weight loads using hand strength.

Pros: They provide essential tensioning as they use hand strength, so no over-tensioning. They also serve well in adjusting while securing lighter loads.

Cons: They should not be considered for heavy-weight loads.

Where to use: If you want to secure small and fragile items where security is a paramount aspect. They can be used for dirtbikes, pickup truck beds, and trailers.

Cam Straps Vs Ratchet Straps: Key Differences You Should Know

Comparison Of Tensioning Mechanisms:

If you are looking forward to applying high tension with secured fastening, Ratchet Straps are a better option than Cam straps.

However, To use a cam strap, you literally just pull it tight to get the tension you want. If you need to release the strap, it’s very easy. Most of the time, cam buckles have a small plate that you press to let go. When you press, the lock plate stops pressing on the roller, so the strap comes off easily. It’s quick, easy, and painless.

Difference In Weight Capacities:

In this aspect of cam buckle vs ratchet, there is a major difference. Ratchet Straps are crafted for heavy and large cargo items and offer higher weight capacity than Cam buckles. 

Cam buckles offer lighter weight capacity, hence best for small-size cargo.

Ease Of Use And Handling: 

Ratchet Straps provide the best solution for securing cargo, but it takes time to get accustomed. Many first-time customers feel inconvenienced securing cargo, which they overcome with little time. 

Cam Straps uses a manual mechanism and hence features simple to understand design. It provides the best handling for small-size products.

Suitability For Different Types Of Cargo:

Ratchet Straps: Heavy and large-size cargo that needs to be transported to a longer distance.

Examples are cars, Heavy Machinery, and big-size industrial equipment.

Cam Straps: It is ideal for lightweight cargo products that need swift adjustment. Example are  Furniture, Bicycle, Small Machinery.

Durability & Maintenance Considerations:

In durability and maintenance, ratchet straps rank above cam buckle straps as they are made using polyester material. You can clean them with mild soap if you observe any dirt.

Cam buckles aren’t durable compared to ratchet straps. They can also be cleaned using mild soap and water. 

Choose the right strap according To Your Need

Ratchet Straps and Cam Straps are best in their specific usage and can provide suitable outcomes to their users. If you wish to secure your bigger and bulkier goods, you can consider ratchet straps for better outcomes.

However, if you look to secure lower-weight items, or if you frequently need to open and close straps, ensuring they can get secured easily, Cam Straps can do your job as a better alternative to ratchet straps.