Definitive Guide to Load Binders: Securing Your Cargo for Safe Transport

When employing transport chains to convey freight in or on your vehicle, Load Binders are required to keep the load secure. Tie-down chains for cargo securement are ineffective without a Load Binder. Binders are sturdy and durable, come in a variety of shapes and load ratings, and are tailored to fit the chain you’re using.

Load Binder Types

There are two types of load binders: lever and ratchet.

Lever-type load binders: They are constructed of forged steel, and are used to tighten chains for cargo security. They include a double swivel lever that allows for rapid load application, but the person installing must provide a significant amount of human power. If sufficient care is not taken, the lever may “kick back” and be mistakenly released while applying load during installation.

Ratchet load binders. Ratchet binders are constructed of forged steel and are used to secure weights in chain binding applications. Ratchet-type binders provide limitless adjustability for accurate binding and are easier to use than lever binders. These, too, require physical power to tighten the load. However, the mechanical advantage afforded by the ratchet reduces the amount of force required for loading. If the Ratchet lever is unintentionally released, it will not “kick back”.

How to Choose a Load Binder?

Once you’ve decided on the type of load binder you want, you need to make sure you’re using the correct binder for that category. Making this choice is less about the binder itself and more about the type of chain and the weight of the freight you’re employing with it. Chain binders and load binders function as a team, thus they must be consistent with one another.

The most critical factor to consider when picking a chain and load binder team is ability. The load being tied down must not exceed the total number of chains employed by the combined WLL. For example, if your cargo weighs 4,000 pounds and you utilize four links, each chain must have at least 1,000 pounds of working load capacity. A total of 4,000 pounds would be comparable to four chains of 1,000 pounds WLL apiece, providing sufficient power to secure a 4,000-pound weight. Furthermore, each binder must have a WLL of at least 1,000 pounds. A good rule of thumb is to only employ binders whose capacity is equal to or more than the chains they will tighten.

How to utilize a load binder?

Step 1: To free the pawl from the binder gears, turn it to the neutral position.

Step 2: Using your hand, unscrew and completely extend the binder hooks, making sure not to exceed the maximum extension length.

Step 3: Attach the hooks to the binding chain at a 45-degree angle, taking up as much slack as possible. Make sure it’s in a position where you can operate it while standing on the ground, and then get into a position with a firm footing. Be careful of any ice, snow, rain, grease, or other substances that may influence your footing.

Step 4: Adjust the pawl to the “in” position and begin ratcheting the chain to the required tension.

Step 5: Wrap the remaining chain around the binder handle and fasten the loose end.

To remove and release the binder, turn the pawl to the “out” position and begin ratcheting it until the chain gets slack and the binder hooks are readily disengaged from the chain.

Conclusion

Load Binders have several remarkable advantages. To reap all of the benefits, remain safe, and assure secure loads, operators must first comprehend the existing performance requirements. Your cargo securement system must meet the set standards. A load binder is required to ensure secure freight loading.