Chain Binders

Chain Load Binders

Chain binders are essential load tie down equipment in the flatbed industry. Used in conjunction with transport chain to anchor your cargo, these devices are standardly constructed from forged steel. Most have tension hooks on each end to create secure attachment points and effectively tighten the chain.

There are two main types of binders to choose from: ratchet binders and lever binders. All meet DOT and FMSCA regulations and include a size, break strength, and working load limit stamp.

Ratchet Binder

This type of chain binder uses a ratcheting mechanism to tension the binder chain. Unlike lever binders, ratchet load binders store very little energy in the handle, reducing the risk of recoiling and snapbacks for the operator.

This makes them the safer choice, but some still favor the lever binder because it's faster to operate.

Ratchet chain binders also have more moving parts, including a gear, handle, pawl, and end fittings. 

Lever Binder

Also called snap binders, lever chain binders use leverage to tighten and secure the load. They have fewer moving parts (which means less maintenance), and require more strength to tighten.

While this type of load binder is often considered easier and quicker to use than a ratchet binder, the lever does store kinetic energy, increasing the potential risk of recoiling / snapbacks.

Recoil-less Lever Binder

A recoil-less binder combines the efficiency of a lever binder with the safety of a ratchet binder.

Our recoil-less cam-action lever binder features an anti-kickback handle, making it one of the safest on the market today. The center cam rotates independently of the hooks, eliminating the recoil that typically occurs when the chain tension is released. 

Grade 80/100/120 Ratchet Binders

While most of our chain binders are compatible with grade 70 chain, we also offer a selection that can be used with heavier-duty chain grades. 

Some can even work with multiple grades / chain diameters. If you choose one that does, it’s important to pay close attention to the working load limit (WLL) of both the binder and the chain.

While a binder may be compatible with a higher-grade chain, if it has a lower WLL, it will reduce the overall WLL of the entire assembly. A tie down setup is only as strong as its weakest link.

Check out our Compatible Chain & Binder Chart to quickly identify a binder that will work for you!

Chain Binder Sizes and Strengths

Although we do not carry binders with less than a 1,000 lb. working load limit, we do have some smaller versions that are rated for less than 3,000 lbs. For our heavy-haul flatbed truck driver customers, we carry heavy-duty chain binders that are ideal for securing large machinery and equipment.

Our sizes range from 1/4” load binders with a 3,150 lb. working load limit all the way up to big 5/8” ratchet load binders with a whopping 18,100 lb. WLL.

Load Binder Maintenance

Keep your chain boomer in good working order for as long as possible by storing them in a dry location and routinely lubricating essential areas:

• For ratchet binders, you need to lubricate the screw threads and the pawl part.
• For snap binders, you need to lubricate the pivot and swivel points.

Popular Chain Binder Brands

We carry a variety of different binders so you can find the option that meets your needs when it comes to price, quality-level, and special features.

Import tie down binders are typically the most cost-effective choice, while USA-made chain binders often come with more rigorous proof-testing and durability. Our selection of USA-made chain binder brands includes Crosby® Lebus® and Columbus McKinnon.

Other popular brands we carry are Durabilt, Peerless, and Pewag.

We also offer a number of transport chain and binder kits perfect for a wide variety of applications.

Questions?

Our product experts are here to help! Give our team a call with any product questions or help placing an order.