Are Flat Hook Or J Hook Ratchet Straps Better For 7K Utility Trailer With Stake Pockets And D-Rings?

Updated 12/17/2025 | Published 12/16/2025

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Ratchet Straps with Flat Hooks and Storage Bag - 2" x 20' - 3,333 lbs - Qty 4

(15)

$88.48

etrailer Ratchet Straps with Double-J Hooks and Storage Bag 2" x 20' - 1,333 lbs Qty 4

(24)

$70.41

Question:

I’ve got a 7k utility trailer with stake pockets and a few welded D-rings. Should I be using the flat-hook straps or the double-J ones for mixed anchor points?

asked by: Mason

Expert Reply:

Good morning, Mason. With a trailer that has both stake pockets and D-rings, you’re actually going to fine with either option. The flat-hook kit # e72SV works best in the stake pockets or over the rail because the hook lies flat and loads evenly, while the double-J kit # e42SV seats nicely into welded D-rings and it doesn't matter as much if the strap gets pulled a different direction since the hook isn't flat.

Both kits use 2" wide straps and come with the water-resistant bags, so the real difference is just the type of anchor point they grab onto. If most of your tie-downs happen on the pockets, lean toward the flat hooks; if you rely heavily on the D-rings, double-J will feel cleaner.

What do you haul most often on that 7k trailer, Mason? I have a tandem axle Big Tex 7K flat trailer that I use to haul around golfcart and car projects.

expert reply by: Andrew N

Mason

12/17/2025

Thanks Andrew. I mostly haul my 4-seat golf cart and sometimes a small tractor attachment. Sounds like flat hooks make more sense for my trailer since I’m always using the stake pockets.

Andrew N.

12/17/2025

@Mason Yes sir, that would make the most sense! What type of golfcart is it? I have a golfcart side business so I'm always intrigued by stuff like that haha.

Mason

12/17/2025

@AndrewN lol it's called an Icon i40L which is the larger one. It's pretty sweet.