Auto Hauling Strap Buying Guide

Choose auto hauling straps by vehicle type and carrier, then confirm the working load limit (WLL) on each strap. For cars, light trucks and vans of 10,000 lb or less, federal rules require at least two tiedowns restraining the vehicle front and rear, and an aggregate WLL of at least half the vehicle weight. This guide covers strap types, hooks, how to check WLL, and the rules in 49 CFR Part 393. It is not legal advice, so read the current regulation and your state requirements.

What the Rules Require for Hauling Vehicles

§393.128 covers automobiles, light trucks and vans of 10,000 lb or less. It requires at least two tiedowns, and the vehicle must be restrained at the front and rear against lateral, forward, rearward and vertical movement. Heavier vehicles fall under §393.130. Many haulers secure all four wheels.

Under §393.106(d), the aggregate WLL of the tiedowns must be at least one-half the weight of the cargo. A tiedown from a vehicle anchor point to a cargo anchor point counts for one-half of its WLL, and so does a tiedown that goes through, over or around the cargo and back to the same side of the vehicle. A tiedown that goes over or around the cargo to an anchor point on the opposite side of the vehicle counts for its full WLL.

WLL comes from the manufacturer markings or the tables in §393.108. Webbing tiedowns on commercial motor vehicles must conform to WSTDA-T1 under §393.104, and conforming straps carry a tag showing the working load limit, the manufacturer and the webbing material. During a trip, §392.9(b) calls for checking cargo and securement within the first 50 miles, then again at a change of duty status, after 3 hours or after 150 miles. See our DOT & FMCSA Cargo Securement FAQ and DOT regulations guide for auto transport straps.

Step 1: Choose Your Strap Type

Over-Wheel Straps

Over-wheel straps go over the tire and attach to the trailer at three points. They are a common choice for passenger cars, SUVs and light trucks on car haulers and roll-back beds. Shop over-wheel straps.

Axle Straps

Axle straps wrap around an axle or suspension point and connect to the trailer. They are used where wheel contact is not possible, such as low-profile vehicles or vehicles with damaged wheels. Shop axle straps.

V-Bridle Straps

A V-bridle strap splits into two legs that attach to separate points on the vehicle and meet at a single hook or ring at the trailer end. Shop V-bridle straps.

Lasso Straps

A lasso strap loops around the tire and cinches against the sidewall when tensioned, which makes it quick to apply. It suits standard passenger car tires. See our auto tie-down straps.

Tow Dolly Wheel Nets

Wheel nets cradle the tire to secure the wheels of a vehicle on a tow dolly. See our auto tie-down straps and the glossary entry for tow dolly.

Step 2: Match the Hook to Your Anchor

Choose the hook that fits the anchor points on your trailer. Wire hooks are lightweight and low profile, swivel J hooks pivot to follow the strap angle, and RTJ cluster hooks are built to connect to several anchor types. Always confirm the hook is rated for the load, because the assembly is only as strong as its weakest component. Browse hooks.

Step 3: Check the Working Load Limit

Read the WLL on each strap tag, then add up the WLL that counts under §393.106(d). Example: a 4,000 lb vehicle needs an aggregate WLL of at least 2,000 lb. If four straps are each marked 3,000 lb WLL and each runs from a trailer anchor to the vehicle (counted at one-half), they add up to 6,000 lb. WLL is not breaking strength. Straps are rated with a design factor, so never load a strap past its WLL in service.

Step 4: Consider DiamondWeave™ Webbing

DiamondWeave™ is patented webbing (US Patent 8136555) that GO-TOW.com sells. It has excellent abrasion-resistant properties compared to standard webbing, so straps last longer and do not have to be replaced as often. Shop DiamondWeave™ straps.

Buying Guide FAQ