Are Flat Hook Ratchet Straps Better Or Stronger Than J Hook Ratchet Straps? Flatbed Trailer
Published 12/16/2025 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
What’s the real advantage of the flat-hook straps compared to double-J hooks? I’ve always used J-hooks but everyone keeps recommending flat hooks for flatbed trucks and flat bed trailers
asked by: Shane
Expert Reply:
Shane, the big advantage of the flat-hook on this ratchet strap kit # e72SV is how it loads against a flat surface - like a stake pocket or trailer flat rail - instead of pulling on a d-ring etc. That spreads the force better and gives you a more stable tie-down on equipment trailers. If your trailer has a good rail system, flat hooks feel rock solid.
The double-J kit # e42SV still works great, especially with D-rings or smaller welded anchors, but the hooks don’t sit flat against a rail the way the flat hooks do. If you ever switch between different trailers, you may even want both styles. But that's why the flat style is usually rated for a bit more weight capacity.
What kind of loads are you typically securing, Shane? If you let me know what equipment you're hauling, and what tie-down anchors you have, we can get this settled!
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Ratchet Straps with Flat Hooks and Storage Bag - 2" x 20' - 3,333 lbs - Qty 4
- Ratchet Straps
- Flatbed
- Trailer
- Truck Bed
- Flat Hooks
- 4 Straps
- Manual
- 11 - 20 Feet Long
- 1-1/8 - 2 Inch Wide
- 10001 and Greater lbs
- etrailer
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