Below are descriptions of the 5 grades of chain. For Additional information and products, click the grade of chain.

A general purpose chain of standard commercial quality.  Made from low carbon steel, this chain is frequently used for fabricating tow chains, logging chains and, when appropriate, tie down or binding chains. Hallmarked every 3 feet or less on sizes over 5/16” with manufacturer’s symbol and grade marking: 3, 30, or 300. Not for overhead lifting.

This higher strength chain has been used for years in the trucking industry for tie downs that meet DOT specifications. Made from a higher carbon steel, its strength surpasses proof coil working load limits, size for size, by a factor of 2 to 1. Hallmarked every 1 to 3 feet with manufacturer’s symbol and grade marking: 4, 40, 43, or 400.  Not for overhead lifting.

As its name implies, Transport Chain is used primarily to tie down loads on over-the-road equipment. The  yellow chromate (gold) plating makes it easily recognizable even from a distance. Made from heat-treated carbon steel, it has about 25% more strength than high test chains. Hallmarked every 1 to 3 feet with manufacturer’s symbol and grade marking: 7, 70, or 700.  Not for overhead lifting.

The first chain specifically designed for safety and approved by OSHA and other agencies for overhead lifting.  Its alloy, heat-treated steel makes it ideal for making lifting slings and heavy duty tow chains.  Hallmarked no more than 3 feet apart with manufacturer’s symbol and grade marking: 8, 80, or 800. Suitable for overhead lifting.

This new innovation in alloy chain metallurgy provides about 25% higher working load limits over Grade 80 chain, with some limitations reported in lower ambient temperatures.  Hallmarked no more than 3 feet apart with manufacturer’s symbol and grade marking: 10 or 100.  Suitable for overhead lifting.