Auto Hauling Strap Types Compared
Auto Hauling Strap Types Compared
Not every strap works for every vehicle or application. This comparison covers the four primary strap types used in professional auto hauling — over-wheel, axle, V-bridle, and basket/wheel net — plus the three hook types that determine how each strap connects to the trailer. Match the right strap to your application before you buy.
Strap Type Comparison
| Strap Type | Contact Point | Best Application | WLL | DOT Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Over-Wheel | Tire (over top) | Passenger cars, SUVs, trucks on flatbeds and roll-backs | 3,333 lb | 3-Point over-wheel (49 CFR 393) |
| Axle Strap | Axle housing | Exotics, low-clearance cars, inoperable vehicles | 3,333 lb | Direct axle attachment |
| V-Bridle | Axle (dual anchor) | Open car carriers, multi-deck haulers | 3,333 lb | Y-strap axle method |
| Basket / Wheel Net | Tire (under and side) | Tow dollies, front-wheel capture | 1,667–3,333 lb | Wheel cradle method |
| Lasso Strap | Tire (loop cinch) | Tow dollies, wheel-lift trucks | 3,333 lb | Loop cinch |
Hook Type Comparison
| Hook Type | Self-Aligning | Anchor Compatibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Hook | No | E-track, standard rail slots | Light-duty, low-frequency use |
| Swivel J Hook | Yes | E-track, A-track, standard slots | Commercial carriers, high-mileage operations |
| RTJ Cluster Hook | Yes | E-track, A-track, rail, rub rail — universal | Mixed fleet, multi-trailer operators |
Which Strap for Which Vehicle?
Passenger Cars
Over-wheel straps using the 3-point method are the standard. Four straps — one assembly per tire — satisfy DOT 49 CFR Part 393 requirements. Use RTJ cluster hooks or swivel J hooks for commercial operations.
SUVs and Pickup Trucks
Over-wheel straps work well. For lifted trucks with oversized tires, verify that the strap loop circumference accommodates the larger tire. Axle straps are an alternative when oversized tires make over-wheel contact difficult.
Exotic and Low-Profile Sports Cars
Axle straps are preferred. Extreme low ground clearance can make over-wheel strap routing difficult without contacting body panels. Axle attachment avoids contact with painted surfaces.
Inoperable Vehicles
Axle straps are the most reliable option when the vehicle cannot be positioned precisely or when wheels are damaged. Combine with a wheel chock at each tire for maximum restraint.
Open Car Carrier (Multi-Deck)
V-bridle straps are the industry standard for open carriers. The Y-configuration straddling the axle provides symmetric load distribution across multiple anchor rails. RTJ cluster hooks are preferred for their compatibility across carrier types.
Tow Dolly
Basket straps and wheel nets are the correct choice for securing front wheels to a tow dolly. Lasso straps are an alternative for quick deployment.
DiamondWeave™ vs. Standard Webbing
All strap types above are available with standard polyester webbing or GO-TOW.COM’s patented DiamondWeave™ webbing (US Patent #8,136,555). For high-frequency commercial operations, DiamondWeave™ extends strap life at the contact and edge-wear points that standard webbing fails at first. The rated WLL is identical — the difference is durability under commercial cycle counts.