Load Securement - Chains, Chain Binders - Straps

all just need it stamped somewhere, not each link...but keep inmind, if ur binder is not as strong as your chains, its the week link

 

Chains should be marked every "1 to 3 feet" with the manufacturers grading.
Binders will have it right on the handle.
This is of course ASSuming you have decent stuff, and not made in China junk where the stamping isn't worth a hoot. I have seen them snap, it isn't pretty. I also will not use junk lever binders, a ratchet binder is so much easier, to both secure safely, and not damage the freight.
With the stuff I use (13,000lbs WLL), the trailer is normally the weakest link if it isn't an RGN.
Check the sticker on the trailer, if it's still there, to see the WLL of the stake pockets etc if it is a flat/step. If an RGN, then it will be for D rings, cutouts, etc.
Whatever is the lowest number (chain, hook on the end, binder, tie down point), that is what you will get credit for if inspected. No point using one of my 1/2" chain and binders on a crappy stake pocket rated for 6,000lbs, as it would just drag down my 13,000lb chain/binder rating to the 6,000lb stake pocket rating.

Martin

 

A QUALITY 3/8 binder will be rated for 7400lbs. Cheaper ones are 6600lbs.
The 5/16' necklace chains, which are all but useless in my experience, are 5400lbs IIRC.
The hook stamping is just for the hook, as they are removable. The chain will (should) be stamped every few feet. Older chains though, wont have it. So long as it's a quality piece of chain, it's fine in my book. I have seen newer Chin junk break at the welds, where one of my old chains has not even stretched.

Martin

 

Also, keep in mind that ANY link in a chain, or link from binder to hook, that is even slightly disfigured should be immediately discarded. Not only will it be a ticket, but more importantly could be the warning sign before a catastrophic failure. Really bad Ju-Ju....

 

To clarify, if the chain hooks are removable the links should be rated somewhere to. We buy chain with non removable hooks and thus its all one piece. They only rate the hook becuase it is not removable from the chain.

 

I wouldn't want a chain with non-removable hooks, sometimes you need to take the hook off to get it thru a hole on a piece of equipment. If all you ever haul is general freight, steel, etc. then they would be fine.

 

Yep. I have been given various degrees of grief for:

-GR70 on links not legible (this is a real PITA).
-WLL in strap tags not legible (have since stopped using straps with tags)
-bent link (I check them now)