The ratchet strap our most beloved moving tool! Also known as a ratchet tie-down or cargo strap, is a versatile tool used for securing and transporting heavy loads. The invention of the ratchet strap revolutionised the way goods were transported, making it safer and more efficient. The history of the ratchet strap can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the first prototypes were developed and patented.

The first ratchet strap was invented by a French engineer named Gustave A. Audiffren. He patented his invention in the early 1900s, and it quickly gained popularity among the French military for securing cargo during transport. The early ratchet straps were made of metal and were manually operated, requiring the user to manually tighten the strap by turning a crank.

In the 1930s, a new type of ratchet strap was introduced that used a ratcheting mechanism to tighten the strap. This made the process of securing cargo much faster and easier, as the user only needed to turn the ratchet handle to tighten the strap. This new design quickly became popular in Europe and the United States, and was soon adopted by trucking companies, shipping companies, and other organizations that needed to transport goods.

During World War II, the ratchet strap became an essential tool for military cargo transport. The straps were used to secure tanks, vehicles, and other heavy equipment during transport, and their use helped to ensure the safe and efficient movement of military goods. The war also led to the development of new materials and technologies for making ratchet straps, including the use of synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester.

After the war, the popularity of the ratchet strap continued to grow, and new designs were developed that made the straps even easier to use. The introduction of the cam buckle, for example, allowed for quick and easy adjustment of the strap's tension. Other innovations, such as the use of webbing instead of metal, made the straps lighter and more flexible, making them easier to handle and store.

Today, the ratchet strap is widely used for securing loads during transportation, including everything from household goods to heavy machinery. The straps come in a variety of lengths and strengths, and can be customized to meet the specific needs of the user. They are also widely used in construction, agriculture, and other industries, and are considered an essential tool for many workers.

In conclusion, the history of the ratchet strap is a story of innovation and efficiency. From its early beginnings as a manual tool for securing cargo, the ratchet strap has evolved into a versatile and essential tool for securing loads of all shapes and sizes. The continued development of new materials and technologies has ensured that the ratchet strap remains a crucial tool in the transport of goods, and its use is likely to continue to grow in the years to come.

If you ever feel the need to buy a set of straps then look no further than a Masterlock .