Securing cargo is the whole point of a flatbed, and the anchor system you pick decides how fast and how safely you do it. The two common choices are D-rings and airline track. Here is how they compare.
D-Rings: Simple and Strong
D-rings are welded or bolted anchor points, often recessed in the deck or mounted along the rub rail. They are the standard on most flatbed truck bodies.
- Best for: chain and strap tie-down of heavy equipment, pipe, pallets and machinery
- Strength: fixed points are built for high working loads; check the rating for your specific bed
- Limit: anchor spacing is fixed, so odd-sized cargo may not line up
Airline Track: Flexible Positioning
Airline track is a slotted rail that accepts sliding fittings, so you can place an anchor almost anywhere along its length.
- Best for: mixed loads, crates, ATVs, tool boxes and cargo that changes daily
- Strength: adjustable positioning with quick-release fittings
- Limit: individual fittings generally carry less than a heavy-duty D-ring, so confirm ratings before chaining down heavy loads
Which Should You Choose?
- Hauling heavy equipment or steel with chains? Go with D-rings.
- Hauling varied, lighter cargo? Add airline track.
- Do both: many crews run D-rings for the heavy hauling and a track strip for flexibility.
Anchor options vary by brand and model, so ask us what fits your bed. See our Bedrock and Norstar flatbeds, browse all truck beds for sale, or add gear from truck accessories. Related reading: stake pockets vs rub rail tie-downs.
Talk to Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX
We upfit flatbeds for customers across Texas and Louisiana. Tell us what you haul and we will recommend the right tie-down setup. Call (979) 532-1486.
