Ratchet straps are an essential tool for securing loads during transport and storage. They provide a quick and easy way to tightly fasten down cargo. However, ratchet straps can become tangled and damaged if not stored properly when not in use. Having a few extra straps on hand is always a good idea in case one breaks or you need additional tie downs. But how should you store those extra ratchet straps to keep them organized, protected, and easily accessible? There are a few good storage solutions to consider.
Hang Them
One of the best ways to store extra ratchet straps is to hang them on the wall or rafters in your garage or storage area. This keeps them up and off the floor so they don’t get dirty, run over by vehicles, or tangled up with other items. Hanging them also makes the straps easy to see and grab when you need them. You can hang each strap over a sturdy nail, hook, or strap hanger. Be sure to store them somewhere out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage over time.
Tools Needed
- Nails, large hooks, or strap hangers
- Hammer
- Tape measure
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Measure and mark where you want to place the nails, hooks, or strap hangers on the wall. They should be spaced equal distances apart to neatly hang each strap. Place them high enough up on the wall so the straps don’t drag on the floor.
- Use a hammer to insert a nail or hook at each marked location. Make sure they are securely installed in a stud or rafter, not just drywall. For extra strength, pre-drill pilot holes for each nail.
- Hang each ratchet strap over one of the nails, hooks, or strap hangers. Neatly lay out the strap so it’s not tangled. Let the ratchet end hang down.
- Add labels, tags, or mark the wall next to each strap if needed for identification. Organize them from shortest to longest or group by size/weight rating.
Coil and Bin
An alternative approach is to neatly coil up each spare ratchet strap and place in a storage bin. This keeps them contained in one portable container for quick access. Plastic bins work well to protect the straps from dust, dirt, and moisture while in storage. Just be sure not to overly pile them in, or they can still get tangled up.
Tools Needed
- Storage bin(s)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Lay each ratchet strap out flat on the floor.
- Start coiling the strap from one end, keeping the coils loose and consistent in size. Avoid kinking the strap.
- Use zip ties, rubber bands, or rope to secure the coiled strap so it retains its shape.
- Place the coiled straps inside a plastic storage bin, stacking them vertically if needed.
- Label the outside of the bin for easy identification. You can also label each strap.
- Store the bin in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Mounted Tool Box
For the most compact and portable storage, mount a small tool box in your truck, trailer, or garage to hold extra ratchet straps and other tie downs. Look for a tool box with decent depth to accommodate rolled straps. It should also seal tightly to protect contents from moisture and dust. Attach it in an easily accessible spot for convenience.
Tools Needed
- Tool box
- Screws or hardware to mount it
- Power drill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select a tool box large enough to hold your spare straps while rolled or coiled up. Make sure it’s moisture resistant.
- Choose a suitable mounting location on truck rail, trailer frame, garage wall, etc. Allow room to fully open the lid.
- Hold the tool box in place and mark spots to drill pilot holes for mounting screws.
- Drill pilot holes then attach the tool box using appropriate screws and hardware.
- Place straps inside, coiled or rolled up to maximize space.
- Optionally add small storage bins or dividers to organize contents.
On a Shelf
For low cost and simplicity, store extra ratchet straps folded or loosely rolled on an existing or new shelf. Use an open rack-style shelving unit to easily see and select needed straps. Or place on enclosed shelving to keep them free of dust and debris. Just be cautious of setting heavy objects on top that could crush or deform the straps over time.
Tools Needed
- Shelf or shelving unit
- Optional: Shelf dividers, bins, labels
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Designate or install a shelving area for storing spare straps, allowing adequate height.
- Neatly fold or roll up each ratchet strap and stand upright or lay flat on the shelf.
- Position straps side-by-side with larger sizes on bottom shelves.
- Optional: Install dividers to separate straps, or use storage bins.
- Label shelves or use tags to identify strap sizes if needed.
- Keep area clean and free of heavy objects to avoid damaging straps.
On Reels
For fast access and deployment, consider storing ratchet straps on spring-loaded reels. Wall or ceiling mounted reels keep straps neat, untangled, and ready to pull out when needed. Choose reels with brake mechanisms to prevent uncontrolled rewinding. Open style reels allow grabbing any point along the strap. Enclosed reels help protect from dust and moisture.
Tools Needed
- Ratchet strap reels
- Screws/anchors to mount reels
- Power drill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select suitable ratchet strap reels with protected housing and braking mechanism.
- Determine mounting location – on wall, ceiling, or vehicle interior.
- Drill holes for mounting screws in a solid surface capable of holding reel weight when straps are loaded.
- Use appropriate screws and anchors to securely mount each reel.
- Extend strap through reel opening and align properly to spool onto reel drum.
- Rotate reel to wind strap onto drum, leaving some exposed for grabbing.
- Pull strap out and retract to check for smooth operation.
On a Peg Board
Peg boards provide a versatile organization solution for hanging all kinds of tools and gear. You can easily mount long pegs to hold ratchet strap rolls in your workspace. Position your peg board so the straps are readily accessible when loading cargo. Just make sure to leave enough clearance so the rolls don’t rub against wall or obstructions.
Tools Needed
- Peg board
- Long pegs
- Power drill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select suitable peg board size and mount securely to wall at desired height.
- Determine needed peg length so rolls fit loosely and clear other items underneath.
- Install pegs in board spacing them equal distance apart.
- Neatly roll up each spare ratchet strap.
- Slide ratchet end of strap roll onto one of the pegs.
- Keep rolls secure but loose enough for easy on/off.
- Optionally use peg board bins for small strap accessories.
On Hangers
An easy DIY approach is to hang extra ratchet straps on basic wire hangers. Bend the hangers straight and hang them from a suspended metal rod or pipe. The ratchet ends then slide over the hanger wires to nicely display the straps. Add labels or color code the straps for size identification.
Tools Needed
- Wire coat hangers
- Suspended metal rod or pipe
- Pliers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Straighten the bottom triangle shape of each wire coat hanger using pliers.
- Bend a small hook at the end of each hanger to allow hanging from a suspended metal rod.
- Mount a pipe or rod horizontally with supports at each end. Allow enough space for hangers.
- Neatly fold or roll up each ratchet strap. Hang ratchet end on one wire hanger.
- Space hangers evenly apart down length of rod so straps don’t tangle.
- Use tags or label rod to identify different strap sizes.
On a Wall Strip
For displaying straps in your garage or workshop, mount a metal strip or rail horizontally on the wall. Magnetic strips allow quickly grabbing straps without fussing with hooks. Or use slots/holes to neatly hang straps from bolt hooks. Position your wall strip close to vehicle access doors for convenience.
Tools Needed
- Metal strip or rail
- Mounting hardware
- Power drill
- Optional: Magnetic strip, bolt hooks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select metal strip with either magnetic surface or holes/slots for hanging hooks.
- Determine desired mounting location – ideally near cargo access doors.
- Use proper hardware to mount metal strip horizontally on wall, secured firmly into studs.
- If magnetic – simply place rolled or folded straps against strip surface.
- Or use bolt hooks in holes to neatly hang individual straps.
- Arrange straps organized by size and use tapered hooks to indicate strap ratings.
On Peg Board Hooks
Specialized peg board hooks make it easy to hang ratchet straps vertically for tidy storage and display. Look for hooks designed to cradle the ratchet end and keep the straps from slipping off. Install them in your peg board so the hooks orient the right way. Leave enough space between columns of hooks to prevent strap overlap.
Tools Needed
- Peg board
- Ratchet strap hooks
- Power drill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select compatible ratchet strap hooks with peg board mount and strap cradle.
- Arrange hooks on peg board with spacing that prevents strap overlap.
- Install hooks into board following included directions.
- Neatly fold or roll up each spare strap.
- Slide ratchet end down into cradle to vertically hang each strap.
- Group hooks by strap sizes for easy size identification.
On Row Hooks
For heavy duty storage, mount a row of large hooks on a wall or post. Look for sturdy hooks rated for holding significant weight. Evenly space hooks to properly display each ratchet strap. The hooks allow easily sliding straps on and off as needed. Just position hooks so straps don’t drag or get stepped on.
Tools Needed
- Heavy duty hooks
- Mounting hardware
- Power drill
- Tape measure
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select thick, steel hooks able to hold suspended weight of ratchet straps.
- Mark where each hook will go, spacing them evenly apart.
- Use proper mounting hardware to securely install hooks into solid surface.
- Neatly fold or roll up each spare ratchet strap.
- Slide a strap onto each hook, suspended by the ratchet end.
- Check straps periodically for wear and move hook locations if dragging.
On Wall Hooks
For compact storage, ratchet straps can hang on sturdy wall hooks. Coat rack style hooks allow neatly arranging straps close together on a vertical surface. Stagger hooks from top to bottom for easy strap access. Just be mindful of rubbing or friction against the wall over time on the straps.
Tools Needed
- Wall hooks
- Power drill
- Tape measure
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select wall hooks with rounded ends that won’t rip or tear straps.
- Determine hook layout and use tape measure to mark evenly spaced locations.
- Use proper drill bit to make pilot holes then install hooks securely.
- Fold or roll up each strap and slide onto one of the wall hooks for storage.
- Arrange straps on hooks neatly without overlapping.
- Consider placing padding between straps and wall to prevent rubbing.
On a Ladder Rack
For transportation vehicles, install a ladder rack along the ceiling or upper walls. Then use S-hooks to conveniently hang straps from the horizontal bars for storage while in transit. Ladder racks help utilize all available interior space. Just ensure the rack is securely mounted to safely handle the load.
Tools Needed
- Ladder rack system
- Mounting hardware
- Power drill
- S-hooks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select sturdy ladder rack system rated for anticipated weight of straps and other items.
- Choose suitable mounting locations along interior walls or ceiling framing.
- Install ladder racks following manufacturer instructions for safe and secure mounting.
- Neatly arrange straps hanging from S-hooks spaced along the horizontal bars.
- Consider grouping strap types/sizes together for organization.
- Ensure items can’t shift and hit people inside vehicle during transport.
Conclusion
Ratchet straps are indispensable tools for reliable load securement. Keeping extras handy for when you need them is a smart idea. Carefully storing these straps protects them from damage while also maintaining quick access. Hanging straps on walls, pegs, hooks, strips, or ladders prevents tangles and clutter. Coiling or rolling them in bins, boxes, or on shelves keeps them organized and shielded too. With the right storage approach, your extra ratchet straps will always be right where you need them and protected for longevity.
