Tarp straps are made of a durable rubber which is typically more flat than a rounded bungee shock cord. A bungee cord has more stretch under load than rubber, so expect more movement than with rubber straps. Because elastic rope bungee straps have more stretch, they are more prone to recoil at high speeds which can be dangerous. In fact, heavy duty elastic cord like bungee cords are sometimes also called shock cord or elastic shock cord because the quick snap-back strength of a bungee cord can be considered a shock action.
Bungee cords have a polypropylene jacket which is better for securing more fragile items. Both rubber straps and bungee cord have hooks at each end, but rubber tarp straps have “S” hooks in traditional metal, while bungee cords have “J” hooks that are coated metal which can be more gentle on both the item and on the securing point.
Bungee cords are available from 12" to 48" long. Rubber tarp straps range from 9" to 41". Alternatively, you can purchase rubber rope and hooks for custom lengths.
Another difference between a rubber tarp strap and a bungee elastic rope is how it’s measured. Our rubber tarp straps are measured from the bottom of the hooks, while bungee cord rope (also sometimes spelled as bungy rope or bungie rope), is measured from the ends of the hooks.
Rubber tarp straps and bungee cords are ideal for smaller, light-duty jobs. If you need tie-down equipment in a longer length or with more or less elongation, check out these other tie-down options from US Cargo Control:
Tie-down straps: Tie down equipment like
cam straps offer a wide variety of fittings, from hooks to buckles and loops. Some are designed to fit
E-track or
Airline track/ L-track rails , while others can be easily used with smaller single
anchor points you install or already have on a truck or trailer.
Rope: Our selection of
rope and cordage is available in so many variations, it's best to choose what you need based on the job you’ll be using it for. We offer a wide selection, from
California Truck Rope in polypropylene to all-natural
manilla rope, with most available in both custom lengths and by the coil.
Rubber rope: A good choice if you need a tie-down length that isn’t readily available. Simply combine a length of
rubber rope and a
rubber rope hook to create your own custom rubber strap.
