Over Wheel Ratchet Straps: The Ultimate Guide to Secure UTV and Vehicle Transport
When it comes to hauling UTVs, ATVs, or other vehicles, there's one crucial piece of equipment that often gets overlooked—over wheel ratchet straps. These specialized tie-downs aren’t just another strap in your gear kit. They’re a purpose-built solution that ensures your vehicle stays locked in place, no matter how far or rugged the journey.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior heading to the dunes or a pro hauler moving high-end UTVs across state lines, understanding and investing in the right over wheel ratchet straps can make or break your cargo control setup.
What Are Over Wheel Ratchet Straps?
Over wheel ratchet straps are heavy-duty tie-down straps designed to loop over a vehicle’s tire, using pressure and tension to hold the wheel (and therefore the vehicle) securely in place. They’re typically used in conjunction with floor-mounted anchors or tie down tracks in trailers.
These straps often include:
- Adjustable loops or “nets” that fit around the tire
- Integrated ratchets for tightening and securing
- Hooks or fittings to attach to trailer anchor points
- Reinforced stitching and webbing for heavy loads
Why Choose Over Wheel Ratchet Straps?
While traditional ratchet straps that go over the frame or through suspension points can work, they’re not always ideal. Over wheel ratchet straps offer a better solution for modern UTVs and off-road vehicles.
Benefits of Over Wheel Straps:
1. Protect Your Suspension
Securing from the wheel avoids compressing shocks and suspension, which can lead to wear or damage during transit.
2. Faster and Easier Loading
Wheel nets or over wheel straps go on quickly and don’t require crawling under the vehicle or finding the right attachment point.
3. No Frame Contact
Avoid scratching, bending, or stressing sensitive parts of the vehicle like the chassis or control arms.
4. Universal Fit
Most over wheel strap kits are adjustable to accommodate different tire sizes—from 25" UTV wheels up to 35" off-road tires.
5. Better Load Distribution
By securing at the wheels, the vehicle’s own weight helps keep it stable and planted on the trailer.
When to Use Over Wheel Ratchet Straps
Over wheel straps are ideal for:
- UTVs and Side-by-Sides (e.g. Polaris RZR, Can-Am, Yamaha YXZ)
- Off-road ATVs
- Show cars or low-clearance vehicles
- Race trailers
- Flatbed and enclosed trailers with tie-down tracks
If your vehicle has oversized tires, low ground clearance, or a high-end finish you want to protect, over wheel ratchet straps are the go-to solution.
Key Features to Look For
Not all over wheel straps are created equal. If you’re investing in this gear, here’s what you should look for:
1. Durable Webbing
Industrial-grade polyester webbing with a high working load limit is a must. Look for straps rated for at least 1,500–3,000 lbs WLL.
2. Adjustable Design
Choose 2-way adjustable wheel nets that allow you to tighten both the circumference and length of the strap to perfectly fit your tires.
3. High-Quality Hooks
Twist-Snap Hooks or Carabiner Hooks provide a secure attachment point that won’t slip or pop off under tension.
4. Heavy-Duty Ratchet
A full-size industrial ratchet handle offers better leverage, smoother operation, and more control.
5. Storage Bag Included
You don’t want these things getting tangled or dirty in your trailer. Look for kits that include an X-Large storage bag for convenience.
PowerTye Over Wheel Strap Kits: Built to Perform
At PowerTye, we’ve developed a range of American-made over wheel ratchet straps that check all the boxes above. Built for real riders, racers, and haulers, our straps are engineered for performance and reliability.
2in Adjustable UTV Wheel Net Ratchet Kit
- 2-way adjustable wheel nets to fit most 25–35 inch tires
- Industrial ratchet handles for strong tensioning
- Twist-Snap Hooks for secure trailer attachment
- Includes 4 wheel nets + storage bag
- Made in the USA
This kit is a top choice for UTV owners who need maximum confidence during transport.
Installation Tips: How to Strap Over a UTV Wheel the Right Way
- Position the Vehicle
Load your UTV or vehicle into the trailer and park it in position with the brake on. - Place the Strap Over the Wheel
Drape the adjustable wheel net or over wheel strap evenly across the tire. - Attach to Anchor Points
Use Twist-Snap Hooks, Carabiners, or E-Track fittings to anchor both ends of the strap. - Tighten with the Ratchet
Pull slack from the strap, then ratchet until snug. Make sure the strap centers over the tire and isn’t twisted. - Check All Straps
Do a full walkaround and ensure all straps are evenly tensioned and secure. - Re-check After 10 Miles
As the vehicle settles during transport, always check the straps after the first stretch of the trip.
Comparing Over Wheel Ratchet Straps to Other Tie-Down Methods
|
Method |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Over Wheel Straps |
Protects suspension, fast setup, no frame contact |
Requires clear access to tires |
|
Axle Straps |
Secure around suspension arms or axles |
Risk of compressing suspension |
|
Frame Straps |
Use for old-school frames with secure tie points |
Risk of scratches, shifting |
|
Wheel Chocks Only |
Quick and tool-free |
No vertical tension, risk of bounce |
When it comes to the best balance of speed, security, and protection—over wheel ratchet straps stand out.
Real-World Uses from the PowerTye Community
- Weekend Trail Riders: UTVs loaded and strapped down in under 5 minutes—no bending, no drama.
- Pro Race Teams: Rely on PowerTye’s wheel nets to secure $50K race vehicles without stressing suspension or paint.
- Delivery and Repair Trailers: Auto shops use over wheel systems to secure vehicles in transit safely and legally.
- Overlanders and RVers: Anchor spare rigs or side-by-sides to toy haulers without drilling permanent anchors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use over wheel ratchet straps on passenger vehicles?
Yes—provided the tires are exposed and your trailer has suitable anchor points. They're especially helpful on flatbeds or for lowered vehicles with minimal frame clearance.
What tire sizes do they fit?
Most over wheel ratchet straps accommodate 25–35 inch tires. Be sure to check the product’s adjustable range before purchasing.
Are they legal for DOT compliance?
When used correctly with rated hooks and secure mounting points, over wheel straps meet cargo securement standards for trailer transport.
Can I use them with E-Track or L-Track?
Absolutely. Just make sure your over wheel straps have compatible hardware—like E-Track clips, L-Track studs, or use an adapter.
Why Choose PowerTye?
PowerTye has been making premium, American-made tie-down products for over 30 years. From UTV trailering to cargo nets and retractor ratchets, our gear is built for durability, safety, and performance.
When it comes to over wheel ratchet straps, we bring:
- In-house manufacturing in Anaheim, California
- Field-tested durability
- Trusted by haulers, racers, and off-roaders across the country
- Easy ordering and fast shipping
Final Thoughts: The Smartest Way to Secure Your Ride
If you haul vehicles regularly, you need more than just a few standard ratchet straps. You need a reliable, purpose-built system that works with your vehicle—not against it. That’s where over wheel ratchet straps come in.
They provide faster load times, better security, and superior protection for your gear. Whether you’re headed to the dunes, the track, or the job site, make sure your ride is locked down the right way—with gear that’s built for the job.
PowerTye has your back, with premium straps designed to perform on every haul.