As the weather changes, so do the challenges freight transporters face when choosing strapping material for the job. Strapping-Products.com proudly brings freight transporters the tools they need year-round to safely secure their cargo in all weather conditions as the seasons change. Let’s look at some of the challenges faced in securing loads in freight transport throughout each season.
The Importance of Properly Securing Cargo
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), unsecured loads are responsible for hundreds of deaths and crashes on our roads every year. In 2010 alone, 440 fatalities occurred on our nation’s roads from roadway debris, with a large percentage of this coming from unsecured loads or failure of straps to contain loads. Of the hundreds of deaths from roadway debris, an estimated 2/3 of this debris comes from unsecured loads, which could be prevented with the proper strapping materials used. Let’s explore how seasonal weather changes impact how freight transportation companies should secure their loads.
Securing Cargo in Winter
Securing your cargo in the winter requires straps that can withstand cold temperatures and resist corrosion from ice, water, and salt on the roads. Steel straps treated with a corrosion-resistant coating are an excellent choice for heavier loads. Steel straps that are galvanized or made from stainless steel are also an excellent choice to stand up to challenging winter conditions. Straps made from polyester are an excellent choice for medium and smaller loads as they maintain flexibility and shock-absorbing characteristics, even in sub-zero temperatures. Polyester straps are also resistant to snow, ice, and salt, which can cause other strapping materials to fail.
Securing Cargo in Spring
Securing cargo in spring requires straps that can handle a variety of conditions. Many parts of the country will still have fluctuating temperatures and weather as we move out of winter. Winter steel straps coated with a corrosion-resistant material, galvanized, or made from stainless steel are the safest option for heavy loads. As the weather can be unpredictable in early spring, there may still be the chance of snow in many parts of the country and salt on the roads. Polyester straps remain the best choice for medium and smaller loads as they can tolerate cold and warmer temperatures without losing their flexibility and strength.
Securing Cargo in Summer
When securing cargo for transportation on sunny summer days, choosing a strapping material that is UV-resistant is critical to ensure the safety of your loads. Summer heat must also be considered, as some straps lose their flexibility and strength when exposed to hotter temperatures. Polyester or PET straps are an excellent choice for smaller and medium loads as they resist UV rays and hotter temperatures. Composite straps are made from polyester with an added polymer coating, adding weather resistance if you are in a thunderstorm on the road.
Securing Cargo in the Fall
With the changing temperatures and strong winds of fall, there are a variety of straps that can withstand these conditions. Ratchet straps come in several lengths, sizes, and strengths and can withstand strong winds on the road. Nylon straps are also a good option for smaller loads as they are affordable and can handle changing weather conditions well. For securing heavier loads like in the other seasons, choosing a steel strap that can withstand corrosion from rain is essential.
Contact Strapping-Products.com for Products for All-Season Freight Transportation
To get the best deals on the best all-season straps for year-round freight transportation, contact Strapping-Products.com today at 888-803-8140. We are proud to beat our competition by 10% on average, giving you great strapping deals while keeping more money in your pocket.
