Load Securement Strap Calculator

Enter your load details to estimate the number of tie-down straps needed and find compatible auto hauling straps, ratchet straps and securement equipment. Pick your load, enter its weight, choose your straps (or tell us you don't have any yet), and get the minimum number of tiedowns under 49 CFR Part 393, plus a printable summary. It takes about 30 seconds.

STEP 1

What kind of load do you have?

The rules this calculator uses

Load Minimum tiedowns Rule
Car, light truck or van (up to 10,000 lb) 2, restraining the front and rear 49 CFR §393.128
Heavy vehicle, equipment or machinery (10,000 lb or more) 4, with articulated parts restrained 49 CFR §393.130
General cargo, up to 5 ft and 1,100 lb or less 1 49 CFR §393.110
General cargo, up to 5 ft and heavier, or over 5 ft up to 10 ft 2
General cargo over 10 ft 2, plus 1 for each additional 10 ft or fraction
Every load Combined WLL of the tiedowns at least one-half the weight of the cargo 49 CFR §393.106

Frequently asked questions

How many tiedowns does a car need on a trailer?

For a car, light truck or van of 10,000 lb or less, 49 CFR §393.128 requires at least two tiedowns that restrain the vehicle at the front and rear. The combined working load limit must also be at least one-half the vehicle weight under §393.106. Many haulers secure all four wheels. See the Auto Hauling Strap Buying Guide.

How many tiedowns does heavy equipment need?

For heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery of 10,000 lb or more, 49 CFR §393.130 requires at least four tiedowns, and articulated parts must be restrained. The combined working load limit must be at least one-half the weight of the cargo.

How many tiedowns does general cargo need?

Under 49 CFR §393.110, an article up to 5 ft long and 1,100 lb or less needs one tiedown. A heavier article up to 5 ft, or an article over 5 ft up to 10 ft, needs two. Over 10 ft, add one tiedown for each additional 10 ft or fraction of 10 ft. Specific commodities such as logs or metal coils have their own rules.

Why does a strap count as half of its working load limit?

Under 49 CFR §393.106, a tiedown that runs from a vehicle anchor to a cargo anchor, or over the cargo back to the same side of the vehicle, counts at one-half of its WLL. A tiedown that runs over the cargo to the opposite side counts at its full WLL. See the DOT and FMCSA FAQ.

Keep reading

Guidance only. This calculator applies the general rules in 49 CFR Part 393 for commercial motor vehicles and is not legal advice. Specific commodities and state or carrier rules may require more. Verify with your carrier or FMCSA. Straps sold by GO-TOW.com are compliant with 49 CFR Part 393. FMCSA does not issue approval stamps for individual straps. GO-TOW.com, 1015 N I35E, Suite 218, Carrollton, TX 75006.