Transport Chain & Binders
Flatbed Chains and Binders
When you need a tie down that can handle the toughest conditions, look to chain and binders. They are more resistant to abrasion and sharp edges than ratchet tie down straps and offer higher working load limits, making them the perfect solution for your heaviest-duty loads.
US Cargo Control offers a wide variety of transport chains, chain binders, and accessories – both import and domestic – for your flatbed trailer transport needs.
Transport Chain
Transport chains and binders are primarily used in the flatbed industry to tie down and secure loads. To ensure you get the right chain for your application, our selection includes standard grade 70 transport chain, as well as heavier duty options in grades 80, 100, and 120.
Our chain is high-quality and can be counted on to keep your cargo safely secured. In a break strength test with US Cargo Control 5/16" transport chain and the chain of a popular competitor - ours broke after the NACM standard of 18,800 lbs.; theirs didn't even make it to 16,500 lbs.! Watch the video below to learn more.
What is Chain Grade?
Chain grades are specified by the NACM (National Association of Chain Manufacturers) and the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials).
Grade 70 Transport Chain
Made from high-strength, heat-treated carbon steel, grade 70 chain, also known as transport chain, is the most popular tie down chain option and is compatible with most of our chain binders.
It has a yellow or gold chromate finish for corrosion-resistance, and is commonly used in a wide variety of industries, including towing, logging, safety, and oil rigging.
Grade 80 Tie Down Chain
If you are looking for more fatigue- and abrasion-resistance, grade 80 chain offers those benefits at a similar or slightly higher WLL.
G80 chain is made of alloy steel and is painted black to prevent rusting.
Grade 100 Tie Down Chain
Also made of alloy steel, grade 100 chain is 25% stronger than grade 80 tie down chains with added fatigue and abrasion resistance.
The added strength is due to a higher alloy content and means that this chain is easier to handle - you get higher working load limits at a lighter weight!
Grade 120 Tie Down Chain
Grade 120 chain is the choice for your heaviest loads. It's 50% stronger than grade 80 chain and is made from high strength alloy steel.
The blue powder coat offers protection against rust, and the eye hooks have a chain-shaped groove for a more secure hold.
Tie Down Chain Working Load Limits
NACM and ASTM standards define the dimensional, mechanical, and compositional requirements for each chain grade. They are involved in determining factors like the minimum breaking force required, proof of the steel, elongation, etc. – the combination of which dictates the chain’s working load limit (WLL), a crucial consideration when choosing a chain. Not only is correct usage enforced by the DOT, it’s also essential for safety.
| Grade | WLL (lbs) | ||||
| 9/32" (1/4") | 5/16" | 3/8" | 1/2" | 5/8" | |
| 70 | 3,150 | 4,700 | 6,600 | 11,300 | 15,800 |
| 80 | 3,500 | 4,500 | 7,100 | 12,000 | 18,100 |
| 100 | 4,300 | 5,700 | 8,800 | 15,000 | 22,600 |
| 120 | 5,200 | 6,600 | 10,600 | 17,900 | 27,500 |
Check out our blog post on chain grades for more information so you can choose the best option for your chain and binders tie down system.
Log Chain
Transport chain can be used as logging chain too. Grade 70 chain is approximately 20% stronger than grade 43 log chain and is a great alternative for added strength and durability.
Chain Binders
Chain binders are essential pieces of tie down transportation equipment. They are used to tighten the chain around the cargo, effectively securing it to your flatbed. We carry two types: ratchet-style and lever-style, each with a different tightening device.
For many, the style they use for their chains and binders setup is generally based on personal preference. If you are still undecided, there are a few advantages to each.
Ratchet Binders
This binder uses a ratcheting mechanism as the chain tightener. One of a ratchet binder's main benefits is safety - minimal energy is stored in the handle, which reduces the recoil risk. It also requires less operator effort – it takes less force to move the handle, and it’s easier to adjust in finer increments.
Lever Binders
A lever binder uses leverage to secure the cargo. While they do have a higher risk of recoil and require more operator strength, they have fewer moving parts, making them easier and faster to use.
Looking for the speed of a lever binder without the risk of recoil? Check out our recoil-less lever binder.
Transport Chain Hooks
We stock many different types of transport hooks, making it easy to find the best fit for your chain and binder setup. The most popular are clevis hooks, which have an exceptionally strong attachment point, typically consisting of a fastening device and a bolt or pin.
The clevis attachment also allows for quick replacements if the hook becomes damaged.
Clevis Grab Hook
This style of hook is the most popular for transport chain ends, with a shallow throat opening allowing for easy and secure connections to chain.
Designed to fit through a trailer rub rail, it's well-suited for general transport applications.
Clevis Grab Hook with Latch
With the same design as a traditional grab hook, it comes with a latch for added security.
This latch prevents the chain from releasing while you're on the move and/or re-hooking during removal.
Clevis Sling Hook / Sling Hook
Clevis sling hooks feature a wider throat than clevis grab hooks. This makes them ideal for situations where you need to attach to a D-ring or other non-chain connection point.
Clevis Slip Hook with Latch
These clevis slip hooks have an added safety latch to prevent accidental connections and disconnections while you're transporting cargo.
The latch auto-closes for ease of use.
Custom Chain Tie Downs
Custom assemblies are available for all chain grades 70 to 120. You can choose chain size, end hardware, length, and more to build a unique chain tie down for your chain and binder application.
Fill out our custom tie down chain form or contact us today for more information.
Questions About Chain Tie Downs?
Our knowledgeable staff of product experts is here to help with chains and binders questions or with placing an order. If you don't see what you need, we’ll help you find it!
Looking for other flatbed trailer accessories? Check out our wide selection of winch straps, ratchet straps, tarps for flatbed, winch bars, winch track, and more!
