Rubber/Bungee Tarp Straps

Elastic Tie Downs

Tarp tie downs, including rubber tarp straps, bungee cords, shock cords, and rubber rope all vary in design and uses, so choosing the correct tie down will depend on your specific job.

Although some of the terms are often used interchangeably since they can perform similar functions, there are differences. We've highlighted the standard features of each below.

Rubber Tarp Straps

Measure from bottom of both hooks

Designed with rubber and wire S-hooks, rubber straps are ideal for tying down cargo on trailers, trucks, campers, etc., as well as bundling cargo together.

The primary difference between the two styles of handy tarp tie downs that we carry is the rubber. Each option - natural rubber or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer - M-class) rubber - works better in a different type of climate.

If you live in a cooler area with freezing temperatures, a natural rubber tarp strap is the best choice. They won't become brittle, crack, or tear as the temperature drops. Another benefit is that they have slightly more stretch, allowing them to snap back more readily to their original state.

For hot climates with extended sun exposure, EPDM rubber tarp straps are an excellent choice. They have better UV-resistance.

To reduce the chance of slipping, all of our rubber tarp straps are designed with the rubber fitting snug around a crimped hook.

Multiple lengths are available so you can ensure you get the best fit for your application - 9", 15", 21", 31" and 41". Purchase in either bundles of 10 or boxes of 50. If you need bulk rubber tarp straps, call us to learn if your purchase qualifies for a discount.

Bungee Cords

Measure from the ends of both hooks

Bungee cords are great tie down tarp straps for lightweight applications.

The standard version we offer consists of a rubber core with a polypropylene fabric jacket and coated J hook. The coated hooks make them especially good for items with a fragile finish since they are less likely to mar a surface (compared to a metal S hook on a rubber tarp strap). The cover also makes it resistant to rot, mildew, petroleum products, and most chemicals.

The other option is known as is bungee ball cords. The cord is looped with a ball on one end instead of hooks, a design that's easy to wrap and secure.

Because a bungee cord tie down has a high level of elasticity, it's more prone to recoil at high speeds which can be dangerous. Always use extreme caution when working with bungee straps.

Available in bundles of 10 or 25, the standard straps range in length from 12" to 48". The ball bungees come in packs of 100 and are 6"-11" long.

If you need something longer or shorter, consider buying bungee hooks and making your own custom-length bungee cord tie downs using shock cord (learn more below).

Shock Cord

Shock cord can be described as bungee straps without the end hooks. It gets its name from the snap back action of the cord. Manufactured with a multi-strand rubber core and a marine-grade polyester cover, this elastic shock cord offers a long working life and a consistent stretching ability (its stretch factor is about 100-125% when under full load). Typical safe working load is approximately 2-20% of the stated tensile strength; however, this can vary based on the cord's condition and age.

While some shock cord is manufactured with a polypropylene jacket, ours features polyester, which makes it resistant to breaking, splitting, or cracking. This type of elastic strap also offers excellent abrasion- and UV-resistant characteristics. Because it's considered "marine grade," it can be used for water-based uses on boats, snowmobile trailers, etc.

Shock cords are extremely versatile and economical because they can be made into custom-length tarp straps simply by adding PVC-coated bungee cord hooks. Use these elastic straps for securing items while hauling, camping, sailing, and more.

Rubber Rope

Like shock cord, rubber rope is excellent for creating your own custom tie down lengths by simply adding rubber rope hooks on each end. Sold in bulk lengths of 150', this rubber tubing is ideal if you need a longer length than traditional rubber tarp straps. It's available with a solid core for applications that require more strength.

Tarp Strap Accessories

Browse our comprehensive selection of accessories and other tie down essentials:

• EasyKlip®: Tarp clips feature a unique clamping action, making them strong, versatile, and quick-attaching and -detaching. These patented grip clips are available in black or green in packs of 4 or 10.
• Tarp strap S hooks: Heavy-duty S tie down hooks fit any length of natural rubber or EPDM rubber tarp straps.
• Rubber rope hooks: Quick-fit design allows rubber robe to pass through the eyes for a fast and easy custom tie down strap.
• Bungee hooks: PVC coated steel hooks turn your own custom length of shock cord into your own bungee strap.
• Bungee ball: Use a ball bungee to secure tarps, tent straps, canopy straps, and more.

Other Tie Down Options

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: Cam straps, ratchet straps and motorcycle tie downs offer a wide variety of fittings, from hooks to buckles and loops. Some cargo straps are designed to fit E-track or airline track / L-track rails, while others can be easily used with smaller single anchor points.

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 manila rope or twisted cotton rope, by the coil.

Webbing: If you don't see the cam strap or ratchet strap you need, you can purchase webbing and fittings separately to create custom car tie down straps, truck straps, and more. If you need some stretch, choose nylon webbing; if not, go with polyester webbing or seat belt webbing.

Looking for chain for tie down applications? Check out our transport chain and binders page.