Inspect tie-down straps. Check for rust, broken ratchet assemblies, and frayed nylon material on each tie-down strap. Adjust the strap so that no portion of the nylon strap is clamped or ratcheted into the ratchet assembly. Ratchet a portion of the strap through the ratchet assembly to evaluate the operation of the ratchet assembly.
Separate the tie-down straps by width. The ratchet tie-down strap is manufactured in several different types that all differ by width, length, and color. First, separate your tie-down straps by the width of the nylon cord that will wrap around your loaded items. These cords are usually manufactured in 1-inch, 2-inch, 3-inch, or 4-inch increments.
Separate the tie down straps by length. The length of the ratchet tie-down strap may range anywhere from ten to twenty-four feet. While most straps do not have the actual length written on the strap, you can easily visualize the longer straps and separate accordingly.
Separate by strength. The strength ratting for tie-down ratchet straps may range from 500 to 4500 pounds of weight secured. Because the strength rating may not be visibly annotated on each strap, you may wish to write down the weight rating for this group on a travel tag and place the tag on the ratchet assembly.
Separate by color. Ratchet tie-down straps may be manufactured in a varying array of colors. The colors may differ depending on the nylon cord, or the ratchet assembly. Since color is the easiest way to separate the straps, you may find it simplest to use this method first when attempting to organize.
Secure identifying tags to your straps. You may wish to visibly identify your straps by writing down information regarding width or weight rating on a travel tag and attaching that tag to the strap. Select a travel tag that is waterproof and is designed with an elastic tie loop that can be secured easily to the strap.
