The tie-down industry developed a standard for tagging and labeling products used for cargo securement many years ago. The tags had to identify strength and provide warnings/instructions for proper use of a tie-down product. The federal government and Department of Transportations supported the tie-down industries' standards by adopting the tags as legitimate identification of strength. The FED and DOT require some sort of tag, label or printed labeling regarding strength on cargo tie-downs 2 inches and wider.

CTD gives the customer the option of including tags or omitting them on all products. By default, tags are included on most products to ensure they meet the D.O.T. guidelines. If you see a product and would like it without the tag or label, we need written confirmation to remove it. As an alternative to a tag, tag information, including working load limit, can be imprinted on most straps. Please contact customer service for assistance with omitting a tag or custom imprinting.

We differentiate between a tag and label in the way they are attached to a product but they serve the same function. "Tags" are sewn into the product on one end, the opposite end remains loose and contains the written information. A "label" is also sewn to a product, on two edges or around the entire perimeter with the written information inside the center area. The most obvious detail of a label is that once applied it sits flat to the product.

Tags, which we refer to as "strap tag", are sewn into a product to provide important information about the product. Tags are sewn on one side and the remainder of the tag remains loose and contains the necessary verbiage or images. Tags can contain printing on one or both sides. Tags are normally made of a synthetic fabric like nylon or polyester for improved lifespan when used outside.

By default, CTD's strap tags are printed with the required/recommended tie-down industry information, strength, warnings and usage recommendations. This printed information meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by the Department of Transportation (DOT). On a standard tie-down, usually made up of a hook on both ends and buckle in the middle, a strap tag is sewn next to one or both the hooks. The number of strap tags included on a product is specific to the type of product and provided in the product details.

View an example of CTD's default tag style and verbiage for 1 inch, 1.5 inch and 2 inch tags

1 Inch Tag

1.5 Inch Tag

2 Inch Tag

CTD's strap tags are made with white nylon tyvek and are heavily sewn into the straps we produce. The nylon tyvek material is weather and UV resistant for an extended life when used in the exterior or cargo applications. Printing is done in black, so the finished result is black printing on white nylon tyvek material. For 2 inch or wider ratchet straps, it is critical to ensure your tags remain intact and readable. Department of Transportation officials use the strength ratings on your tags to ensure cargo weight versus the strength of cargo tie-downs meets the requirements.

When working with CTD, strap tags can be customized to the customer's specifications. We have the ability to print custom information and images on strap tags. Tags can also be customized by size and printed sides. Tag length, width, singled sided printing or double sided printing are all options. Basically, if a customer has a custom tag design in mind, we can assist to make it a reality. Ordering CTD custom tags does have a small one-time setup charge and require a small minimum order quantity.

Labels, like tags, are also sewn into a product to provide important information about the product. Labels lay flat on a product and are sewn on two sides or the entire perimeter. The pertinent information or images are printed in the middle of the label away from the stitching. Labels are normally made of a synthetic fabric like nylon or polyester for improved lifespan when used outside. In specialty applications, labels can be printed directly on the surface of the product rather than being a separate component.

All Labels produced by CTD are considered custom. Labels are customized to the customer's specifications including width, length and artwork. Color printing is also available when producing labels. Labels also allow for higher resolution printing of artwork and logos.

Labels typically come at a higher cost. Both production of the labels and the additional sewing necessary to attach the label are higher cost than tags. Production of Labels also has a small one-time setup fee and requires a minimum order quantity.

For most products, tags are a suitable solution. Tags are low cost and quickly printed in-house at CTD. Tags are made with white material and black printing, which does limit design options. Tags also offer simple customization options which again makes them the more populer choice.

When branding, color schemes or more detailed graphics are desired, labels become a better option. For many customers, label minimum order quantity starting at 500-1000 is a significant limitation.

CTD offers nearly endless options for tags, labeling or even custom printing. Our customer service is very knowledgable on all branding options and are happy to assist with any questions.