When you’re outfitting a 20 foot flatbed trailer, the right winches and tarps are essential for securing and protecting loads. This guide highlights five top options that balance strength, practicality, and value for common hauling needs. The best choices vary by use: heavy loads benefit from strong sliding winches; large, weather-exposed cargo needs reliable, durable tarps; and versatile setups favor products that fit standard double L tracks and 20-foot webbing capacity. The table below compares the featured products at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| SENKEYFE Standard Profile Sliding Trailer Winch | Heavy-duty hauling on flatbeds | Holds up to 20 ft of webbing with 5500 LBS WLL |
| ANLULOAD Standard Sliding Winch | Precision positioning on double L tracks | Holds 20 ft of webbing, rust-resistant steel |
| US Cargo Control Standard Sliding Winch (5-Pack) | Multiple tie-down points on several boats/trailers | 5,500 LBS WLL, holds up to 20 ft of webbing |
| Mytee Products 16′ x 20′ Flatbed Trailer Steel Tarp | Full coverage for mid-size loads | 18 oz vinyl, two rows of D-rings, 16′ x 20′ |
| Mytee Products 24′ x 20′ Flatbed Trailer Steel Tarp | Large or longer loads needing wind protection | 18 oz vinyl, 8 ft drop, D-rings on all sides |
SENKEYFE Standard Profile Sliding Trailer Winch
Reference features: 5500 LBS working load limit, 16500 LBS breaking capacity, compatible with 2″/3″/4″ straps, holds up to 20 feet of webbing. Made of heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant black powder-coated finish. Notches allow the winch to slide along a double L track and lock under tension for secure loads. Best for: users who haul heavy equipment or long loads on flatbeds and need a reliable, weather-resistant winch that can adapt to various strap sizes. Limitation: larger, more complex systems may require additional hardware for complete compatibility with older trailers.
VEVOR 3/8″-1/2″ Ratchet Chain Binder with Chain
Reference features: Labor-saving 40 cm long handles, anti-skid grip, 12,000 LBS WLL, 48,000 LBS breaking strength, suitable for 3/8″ and 1/2″ chains. Best for: users who need robust ratchet binders to secure heavy cargo with chain ties on flatbeds. Limitation: this item is a binder rather than a winch, so plan the setup accordingly with compatible chains.
US Cargo Control Standard Sliding Winch for Double L Tracks (5-Pack)
Reference features: 5,500 LBS WLL, holds up to 20 feet of 4″ webbing, slides to precise positions for load-securement, black-painted steel finish for weather resistance. Best for: buyers who need multiple identical winches for several tie-down points on larger loads or multiple trailers. Limitation: a 5-pack may be more than some users require for a single flatbed setup.
Mytee Products 16′ x 20′ Flatbed Trailer Steel Tarp
Reference features: 16′ x 20′ with a 4′ x 8′ flap, heavy-duty 18 oz vinyl, two rows of D-rings on all four sides. Best for: standard flatbed loads and mid-sized cargo needing weather protection while maximizing ease of use and storage. Limitation: not as large as the 24′ tarp option for very long or tall loads.
Mytee Products 24′ x 20′ Flatbed Trailer Steel Tarp
Reference features: 24′ x 20′ machinery tarp with an 8 ft drop, heavy-duty 18 oz vinyl, D-rings on all four sides. Best for: large or wide loads requiring extensive coverage and wind protection over longer flatbed spans. Limitation: heavier and bulkier to store compared to smaller tarps.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing 20 foot flatbed trailer gear?
- Load type and weight: For heavy machines or dense materials, prioritize winches with higher working load limits (WLL) and robust steel construction. For lighter loads, a standard WLL winch is often sufficient.
- Track compatibility: Ensure the winch fits your trailer’s double L tracks. Sliding winches that lock under tension reduce movement during transit.
- Webbing and tie-downs: If you typically use 4″ webbing, confirm the winch accommodates up to 20 feet of webbing for neat stowage and easy deployment.
- Tarps for protection: Consider load length and exposure. A 16′ x 20′ tarp works well for mid-size loads, while a 24′ x 20′ tarp covers longer cargo and provides extra wind protection.
- Durability and weather resistance: Powder-coated finishes and heavy-duty vinyl tarps resist rust and UV exposure, essential for outdoor storage and long hauls.
- Storage and portability: Detachable handles on binders and lighter tarp options ease storage in tight spaces. Plan for on-truck storage if you frequently travel long distances.
Additional Practical Tips
- Arrange tie-downs using a combination of winches and ratchet binders for secure, even tension across multiple points.
- Keep extra webbing and spare parts on hand to reduce downtime during loading.
- Inspect all hardware for corrosion or wear after exposure to moisture or road salts.
FAQ
- What load capacity should I look for in a flatbed winch?
Look for a Working Load Limit (WLL) that exceeds the typical weight of your heaviest load, plus a margin for dynamic loads in transit. - Can I use any tarp on a flatbed trailer?
Tarps should be sized for your trailer and load; ensure the drop and dimensions provide adequate coverage against wind, rain, and sun. - Are sliding winches easy to reposition along L tracks?
Yes, when designed with track-friendly notches and positive locking, they allow precise positioning and stable securing. - Is it better to buy a multi-pack of winches?
If you haul multiple tie-down points or maintain several trailers, a multi-pack can save time and ensure consistency across setups. - What maintenance helps extend tarp life?
Regularly clean vinyl surfaces, check seams for wear, and store tarps folded or rolled to avoid creases that can weaken fabric. - Do tarps come with D-rings on all sides?
Many tarps include D-rings on multiple sides; verify your model has rings placed for your typical load geometry.