When you’re sourcing the cargo nets for lifting, transport or securing applications, choosing the right webbing fabric makes all the difference. Whether you’re looking at a polyester cargo net, a nylon webbing lifting net or a cost-effective polypropylene cargo net, each material brings its own performance profile. In this article we’ll walk you through the three main webbing materials used in cargo nets – polyester, nylon and polypropylene – compare their strengths and weaknesses, and explain why polyester webbing has become the go-to choice for many cargo net applications.
Understanding Cargo Net Material and Webbing Types
When we talk about cargo net material, what we’re really referring to is the webbing (flat or tubular woven strip) that forms the net’s structural framework. Webbing is used in everything from tie-down straps and lifting nets to harnesses and cargo nets. In lifting and transport applications, the choice of webbing affects strength, durability, weather resistance, stretch and ultimately the safety and reliability of the net.
For cargo lifting nets and securing heavy loads (for example truck cargo nets, lifting cargo nets or crane cargo nets), the webbing often must meet demanding requirements: high tensile strength, minimal elongation under load, resistance to UV, water, abrasion and chemicals. Manufacturers commonly offer options in three synthetic materials: polyester web netting, nylon webbing, and polypropylene webbing.
1. Polyester Webbing Cargo Net
Polyester webbing is one of the most popular choices for cargo net material. Here’s a breakdown of its key attributes:
Characteristics & Benefits:
- Excellent resistance to UV light, mildew, rot and moisture — meaning the webbing retains strength in outdoor, marine or exposed environments.
- Low stretch under load compared to nylon – so when securing or lifting cargo, the net holds its shape and does not allow excessive bounce or movement.
- Good abrasion resistance and durability for repeated use in transport, logistics or heavy-duty environments.
- Versatility in widths, styles and breaking-strength ratings – making it suitable for custom cargo netting applications.
Applications:
- Polyester cargo netting used in truck bed nets, crane lifting nets, warehouse overhead nets and custom cargo lift nets.
- Ideal for environments where long-term durability and minimal maintenance are required (e.g., outdoor storage, shipping containers, sea freight).
- Good choice for cargo nets for sale where customer may want a “set-and-forget” solution that will last.
2. Nylon Webbing
Characteristics & Benefits:
- Very high tensile strength and excellent wear/abrasion resistance – making it suitable for demanding load-securing or recovery applications.
- Good dynamic shock-absorption (i.e., when loads shift or bump) because nylon tends to stretch more than polyester.
Limitations:
- Nylon absorbs water which can reduce strength over time, and becomes heavier when wet.
- More stretch under load than polyester – which can be undesirable for nets where minimal movement is required (for example a lifting net where cargo must be held firmly).
- UV resistance and weather-resistance tend to be slightly less favourable than polyester. Some sources indicate strength loss under prolonged UV.
Applications:
- Best used where extreme strength is essential and some flexibility is acceptable – for example heavy-duty industrial lifting nets, military cargo nets or harness-style nets.
- Less ideal when you need rigid control or minimal stretch in net behaviour.
3. Polypropylene Webbing
Characteristics & Benefits:
- Lightweight and very cost-effective among the three major webbing materials.
- Excellent resistance to moisture absorption, floats in water, and resists mildew, oils, grease and chemicals – making it useful for marine or damp-environment applications.
- Minimal stretch – which can be beneficial in some securing/tracking uses.
Limitations:
- Tensile strength tends to be lower compared to nylon or polyester. For example, polypropylene webbing may not suit very heavy lifts.
- Lower melting point and less abrasion resistance – meaning it may degrade or fail sooner under heavy friction or high-heat situations.
- UV resistance and long-term outdoor durability are generally lower than polyester.
Applications:
- Good choice for lighter duty cargo nets, budget-friendly options, or situations where weight and cost matter more than ultimate strength.
- Suitable for truck cargo nets where weather-resistance is needed but lift-capacity demands are moderate.
Why Polyester Cargo Netting More Popular Among Customers
| Key Advantage | Description |
| Balanced Performance | Polyester blends high tensile strength, excellent weather & UV resistance, minimal stretch, and good durability. Unlike nylon which stretches or polypropylene which lacks ultimate strength, polyester hits the sweet spot for lifting/transport nets. |
| Minimal Elongation | Polyester’s low stretch ensures cargo stays in place, especially for lifting nets for cranes or securing heavy loads. |
| Excellent Outdoor Durability | Resistant to UV, mildew, rot, and water damage, making polyester ideal for transport, shipping containers, truck beds, and offshore freight. |
| Versatility & Customisation | Widely available as “polyester netting,” offering custom sizing options and competitive pricing. |
| Cost-effectiveness for Value | While nylon may offer slightly higher strength, its stretch and moisture absorption make polyester the smarter long-term investment for cargo net material. |
Conclusion
In summary, when you’re specifying cargo net material for securing or lifting loads, your choice of webbing will affect safety, durability, and performance. Polyester cargo lifting nets stands out as the most balanced and widely-used option for cargo nets across transport, logistics and industrial applications. For anyone sourcing reliable cargo net supplier, cargo lifting nets in UAE or UK, polyester as the material of choice is a smart starting point.
If you’re ready to buy or customise your lifting net, contact us today for more details. Choose the right cargo net material now — and ensure your loads stay safe, secure and under control.
