Interesting idea, but I never use ratchet straps. I think it's too easy to damage what you're strapping down. I know guys with (street) racebikes that have damaged theirs (bent clip-ons, etc.). I just use regular tiedowns, only I got some custom made with the safety hooks that can't fall off. IMO ratchets should be used on really heavy loads like racecars on a trailer (with the HD 2" wide straps) or other really solid objects, it's just too easy to damage stuff if you're heavy handed with the ratchet. My $.000002.

 

I use ratchet straps, but yes, you need to be careful. I have no doubt you could bend and warp the bed of the truck with a cheap ratchet strap. (I got rid of the ones someone gave me that were designed for use on a C130 cargo plane, don't ask.)

I actually found some straps that you just pull to tighten at Harbor Freight, and I use them more often than my ratchet straps. When I purchased them they were a package of 4.

https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive/cargo-tie-downs/1-inch-x-12-ft-locking-tie-down-47759.html

 

Well there are always cargo nets. Won't work on large items but useful for many items.

 

You guys use straps? I just send it.

 

I'm just happy I was able to recycle most of my anchors from my Gen2 into my Gen3. After 8 years, the only ones I couldn't remove were the rear sides, they were too gummed up. Road spray gets up into that panel behind the rear wheels, the rest were perfect.

 

May be new to the truck world, but not new. They are standard equipment on wheelchair caddies that mount to the receiver

WAY too expensive for what they are IMO... I'll keep my $35 MX bike straps