Knowing how to strap a car down properly is the difference between a car that arrives unscathed and one with damaged suspension or worse. The wrong tie-down method puts thousands of pounds of stress on the wrong components. Done right, four good straps hold a car perfectly through any highway speed and braking event. This guide walks step-by-step through how to strap a car down on an open trailer, ranks the best straps, and explains the regulations that apply. For broader open car hauler buying advice, see our open car trailers buyer’s guide.
The Right Way: Wheel-Over Tie-Downs
The professional standard is wheel-over (also called axle straps over tires). One strap per wheel, looped over the tire and through the wheel spokes, then ratcheted down to the deck D-ring. This puts ALL the load on the suspension and tires — not on the chassis or tow hooks.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Position the Car
Drive the car onto the trailer until the front axle is just behind the trailer’s axle group (about 60/40 weight distribution). Set parking brake, leave in gear (manual) or Park (auto).
Step 2: Apply Front Straps
Two 2-inch axle straps with ratchet handles. Loop one over each front tire, through the spokes, attach to opposing front D-rings. Tighten until the suspension compresses ~1 inch.
Step 3: Apply Rear Straps
Two 2-inch straps over the rear tires, attached to opposing rear D-rings. Same tension as front.
Step 4: Final Check
Push down hard on each fender. Should feel solid. Walk the car — grab the bumper and try to rock it. Should not move.
Strap Brand Picks
Mac’s — axle straps with ratchet handles are the gold standard, $45–$70 per strap.
Erickson — value-tier, $25–$40 per strap.
Snappin Turtle — premium for show cars, slim profile, $60–$90.
Common Mistakes
Tie down by chassis or tow hooks: stress fractures the chassis on long trips.
Cheap import straps: webbing rated 500 lbs that breaks at 800.
Skipping the rear straps: the car can rock forward under hard braking.
Outbound References
For load securement standards, see FMCSA 49 CFR 393.130. WSTDA web sling standards govern strap ratings.
Common Questions
Why not use the tow hooks?
Tow hooks are designed for static pulling, not 70 mph dynamic loads. Wheel-over straps are safer.
How tight is too tight?
Compress the suspension 1 inch. More compresses springs, less lets the car move.
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Where How To Strap A Car Down Fits in Your 2026 Buying Plan
If you’re comparing every option for how to strap a car down, three resources help. The federal FMCSA cargo securement standards (49 CFR 393.100) apply on every public road. The NHTSA towing safety guide covers tow-vehicle setup. And our parent buyer’s guide covers sizing, brands, and 2026 pricing for the broader category.
Pricing on how to strap a car down has stabilized in 2026 after the steel-cost swings of the early 2020s. Whether you’re buying first-time or replacing a unit, how to strap a car down decisions still come down to use case, brand, and delivered out-the-door price. PrimeLoad’s position is to make the comparison transparent.
Browse How To Strap A Car Down inventory to see every option with full specs and delivered pricing. Free delivery to all 50 states from PrimeLoad Trailers.
