Shipping by rail is one of the most common ways products reach their destinations. While railroad shipping is an effective and affordable way to move larger amounts of product, it has some of the strictest regulations of any shipping method. At USA Strapping, our team provides Association of American Railroads approved straps at an affordable price, enabling you to use railroad shipping in your operations. We’ll take a closer look at the Association of American Railroads (AAR) approved straps and the other benefits railroad shippers get from USA Strapping.
What is AAR Compliance?
The Association of American Railroads, or AAR, is an industry trade association that represents North American railroads and sets safety standards for the railroad industry, including regulations around shipping. Specifically for shipping, AAR compliance sets standards for:
- Freight loading practices
- Securement methods
- Railcar safety standards
- Interchange rules between railroads
These standards exist to prevent the risk of accidents that can injure workers and damage shipments during railroad transit. Strapping plays a major role in AAR compliance, including approved straps and approved strapping techniques.
AAR Certification Requirements for Strapping
The AAR sets strict standards for straps and strapping practices on all shipments transported via railroads. These standards include:
- Tensile strength rating for straps
- Elongation limits for straps
- Joint efficiency
- Environmental durability of straps
- Compatibility of straps with different types of loads
For straps to be AAR certified, their rated shipping lab testing is done on straps to simulate railroad conditions commonly seen during transit. Once straps meet these standards and pass testing, they will be issued certification documentation for AAR approval.
Risks of Non-Compliance With AAR Regulations
Using straps for railroad shipping that are not AAR-compliant can pose risks of injury, damaged shipments, fines, and additional logistical setbacks. Besides the immediate risks of not using AAR-compliant straps, if a shipper develops a history of noncompliance, they may face contractual risks with their rail partners and damage their business reputation. Luckily USA Strapping is here to provide you with AAR-compliant straps at affordable prices to keep you and your shipments in compliance with AAR regulations.
Different Types of AAR Straps
There are various types of AAR straps, each with different approved weight and material ratings. The three most common types of AAR-approved strapping materials are:
- Steel straps
- Polyester straps
- Composite cord strapping
Steel straps have the highest tensile strength rating and are typically the go-to choice for the heaviest of shipments. Polyester straps can be used for smaller loads and offer the added benefit of corrosion resistance. Finally, there is composite cord strapping, an incredibly versatile material often used for irregular loads. You’ll need to select a strap that is both AAR-approved and approved for its intended use to remain in AAR compliance. For railroad shippers, USA Strapping makes it easy for you to get all of the AAR-approved straps you’ll need for safe and secure railroad shipments.
Find AAR Compliant Straps for Railroad Shipments Online at USA Strapping
If you’re looking to find a wide selection of AAR-approved straps at the best prices online, look no further than USA Strapping. Our team can get you all the tools and straps you need to remain in compliance with AAR regulations. Give our team a call today at 888-768-0001 to learn about our bulk discounts and save even more on AAR-approved strapping.