When it comes to securing ladders, materials, or bulky cargo on your van’s roof rack, reliability is everything. That’s why we were excited to dive into the Unboxing of Holman Cargo Ratchet Straps. These retractable tie-downs are made to simplify your cargo-securing process while giving you peace of mind on the road.

At Upfit Supply, we specialize in helping professionals upfit their work vans and trucks with proven, high-performance gear. While we don’t manufacture these ratchet straps ourselves, we’ve tested them, installed them, and know them inside and out. Let’s walk through exactly what you get with the Holman ratchet strap kit and why this product deserves a spot in your upfit.

What’s in the Box?

Right out of the gate, we were impressed with how well-packaged and organized everything was. Each Holman Cargo Ratchet Strap Kit (Part #31493) includes:

  • Two retractable ratchet straps
  • Custom mounting brackets (designed for Holman’s Pro III Series ladder/cargo racks)
  • Galvanized hardware pack for secure installation

Heavy-duty ratchet mechanism with quick-release and automatic retraction features

The straps and hardware are durable, weather-resistant, and clearly built to last. Each kit is optimized for use with Holman’s Pro III ladder racks, but bracket options are available for other rack models too.

Compatibility: Know Before You Buy

Before you check out, here’s a critical heads-up: the straps themselves are the same across Holman’s offerings, but the mounting brackets vary depending on your rack system.

So, if you’re outfitting a Pro III Series ladder rack, you’re in the right place. If you’ve got another Holman rack setup, double-check your bracket selection to ensure proper integration. Our product page makes it easy to choose the correct kit.

Design Breakdown: Holman Ratchet Strap Features

The Holman Cargo Ratchet Straps are built with efficiency and strength in mind. Let’s take a closer look at some of the features that make this product stand out:

  • Retractable mechanism: The strap retracts into the housing when not in use, keeping it tangle-free and low-profile
  • Quick-release button: With a press, you can easily free your load
  • Ratcheting lever: Locks down your cargo tight with just a few pumps
  • Durable strap material: Resists UV rays, moisture, and daily wear
  • Weatherproof hardware: Galvanized steel components stand up to rust and corrosion

Even after years of exposure to Michigan road salt, we’ve seen these straps continue to function like new. That’s the kind of longevity we like to see in any cargo control solution.

Installation: Fast and Simple

Installing the Holman ratchet strap system on your cargo rack is straightforward. Once you identify the correct bracket for your rack model, the rest falls into place:

  1. Clamp the bracket onto your ladder rack’s side rail
  2. Secure the ratchet housing to the bracket using the included hardware
  3. Feed and fasten your strap around your ladder or cargo
  4. Use the ratcheting arm to tighten everything down
  5. Release and retract as needed

No need to fuss with loose ends, tangled straps, or missing hooks. The built-in self-retracting design eliminates clutter while keeping everything secure and tight.

How It Performs in the Real World

We’ve seen these Holman Cargo Ratchet Straps stand up to harsh conditions and daily use on job sites across the country. Even when fully exposed to rain, snow, and salt, they continue to retract, ratchet, and release without fail.

A few quick takeaways from our hands-on experience:

  • The ratcheting action is smooth and strong
  • The strap retracts evenly and doesn’t jam
  • The bracket holds tight and resists shifting over time
  • The system is quieter and more reliable than bungee cords or standard tie-downs

If you’re using a Holman ladder rack on your GMC Savana, Chevy Express, Ford Transit, or similar van, these straps are a no-brainer addition.

Why Use Retractable Straps Over Traditional Tie-Downs?

Let’s be honest—loose tie-downs can be annoying. They tangle, get lost, and wear out fast. Here’s why retractable cargo ratchet straps like these from Holman are worth it:

  • Cleaner setup – No mess, no extra slack to tie off
  • Faster operation – One pull and you’re locked in
  • Professional appearance – Your van setup looks tidy and well-managed
  • Improved safety – Less chance of straps flapping, loosening, or fraying

In short, these straps are a small upgrade that delivers a big impact.

Final Thoughts: Should You Add These to Your Build?

After unboxing and handling the Holman Cargo Ratchet Straps, we can confidently say they’re worth the investment. They simplify your daily workflow, reduce cargo shifting risks, and add long-term durability to your rack setup.

So if you’re looking to make your Pro III rack more functional, this is a solid upgrade. It’s small, smart, and built for work.

Shop the Holman Cargo Ratchet Straps now

Need help picking the right bracket or matching a strap to your rack? We’re here to help—just reach out.

Visit UpfitSupply.com for more tools, upgrades, and gear to keep your work vehicle ready for anything.