Recommended Tie-Down Method for Trucks On Trailer

Updated 10/10/2018 | Published 10/09/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Erickson Easy Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ Release Levers - 2" x 10' - 1,333 lbs - Qty 2

(79)

$30.10

Erickson Adjustable Wheel Net with E-Track Fittings - 1,166 lbs

(140)

$31.42

Erickson Horizontal E Track - Zinc Plated Steel - 2,000 lbs - 5' Long - Qty 1

(1194)

$34.95

Erickson Adjustable Ratcheting Wheel Net w/ Hooks - 4" Wide - 3,333 lbs

(65)

$36.35

Question:

i have always tied down trucks with straps 2 in front going to front of trailer, 2 in rear going to rear of trailer, My buddy who drove a semi for sometime, says straps are supposed to go from rear axle towards the middle of the truck, and from front axle rear towards middle of truck. So in the end, both straps are hooked basically by the doors. Any truth or advantage to that?

asked by: Nick

Expert Reply:

With straps going from front of vehicle to front of trailer and back of vehicle to back of trailer, you are basically immobilizing the truck. If you were to run straps from the rear axle to the middle and front axle to the middle you are basically doing the same thing but you are putting more stress on centering the load weight. Both are methods of stabilizing and immobilizing the load, but the trailer will play a big part in what may be the better choice. Centering the load so you have the load fitting the trailer is wise as long as the trailer frame has the structural ability to carry all the tie-down weight in that location. If you have a smaller trailer or a frame that maybe isn't heavy duty, that wouldn't be wise and dispersing the tie-down locations would be a better option.

If you are transporting vehicles often, you may want to consider Wheel Net with Hooks - Qty 1 # EM58522 which are designed to be connected both front and back on each tire. We also have the E-track option # 77314 for use with # E19148.

expert reply by: Jason S