What size Binders/Chains to Purchase

How much will the heaviest thing you move weigh? The regulations change when the weight of the object being moved exceeds 10,000 pounds. Less than 10k can use 5/16 grade 70 chain. Over 10k is 3/8. Use some rope to estimate the length of chain you will need and have it custom made. Point being you are going to be slinging those chains around a lot so you don’t want them to be longer or thicker than you need.

 

We use 20 foot long, 5/16th chain, with 5/8th binders. I know it sounds strange but the slot on the binder hook has to be 5/8th to slide over the 5/16th chain. I tell all our Owner Operators to carry 6 chains and 6 binders because it’s rare that we ever have a use for more and we figure why carry the extra weight. They can always buy a couple more if they see a need for them.

It’s best just to go to a local semi trailer dealer to buy them. Shipping would be high if you bought them online because of the weight of them.