When strength and reliability matter, bulk chain is a dependable solution for a wide range of demanding applications. At Fasteners Plus, we offer a broad selection of industrial chain options built for professionals who need consistent performance in tough environments. Whether you're securing loads, building custom assemblies, or sourcing chain for daily operations, our inventory is designed to support your workflow.
Our bulk chain is available by the foot or in full drum quantities, giving you the flexibility to purchase exactly what you need without unnecessary waste.
Key Considerations for Work Chain
Only grade 80 chain, grade 100 chain, and grade 120 chain are approved for overhead lifting applications.
Grade 70 chain is widely used for transport and cargo securement.
Stainless steel grade 30 chain is commonly used for tie down applications in agriculture, automotive, and marine environments.
Additional grades, including grade 50 and grade 43, may be available by special request. Grade 50 stainless chain is approved for overhead lifting, while grade 43 is typically used for tie down purposes similar to grade 30.
What Is Bulk Chain?
Bulk chain refers to chain sold in customizable lengths, allowing users to cut and configure it based on specific job requirements. This makes it a practical option for operations that require flexibility, efficiency, and scalability.
Common Applications Include:
Cargo securement for flatbed and transport operations
Construction and equipment hauling
Agricultural and farm use
Rigging preparation and lifting setups
Fabrication and custom assembly work
Bulk chain is especially useful for professionals managing fleets, job sites, or production environments where consistent access to chain is required.
Types of Industrial Chain
Industrial chain is available in several grades, each suited for different applications. These are generally grouped into three categories: lifting chain, transport chain, and general-purpose welded chain.
Overhead Lifting Chain
Lifting chains are manufactured from alloy steel and designed to meet strict strength and safety requirements.
Grade 80 Alloy Chain Made from heat-treated alloy steel, grade 80 chain is commonly used for overhead lifting and chain slings. It can also be used in recovery and safety applications. Identification markings include 8, 80, or 800.
Grade 100 Alloy Chain Grade 100 chain offers higher working load limits than grade 80, typically around 25 percent greater. This allows for lighter chain sizes while maintaining strength. It also provides improved resistance to fatigue and wear. Markings include 10, 100, or 1,000.
Grade 120 Alloy Chain Grade 120 is one of the strongest lifting chains available, offering significantly higher strength compared to grade 80 and grade 100. Its design also improves resistance to abrasion. It is typically identified by 12 or 120 markings and often features a distinct color for easy recognition.
Transport Chain
Transport chain is commonly used for securing cargo during transit and must meet regulatory visibility requirements.
Grade 70 Chain Manufactured from heat-treated carbon steel, grade 70 chain is widely used in load securement. Its gold chromate finish makes it easy to identify and compliant with industry standards. It is not approved for overhead lifting.
If identification markings are missing or unreadable, regulations may default the chain to a lower grade classification, which can impact compliance.
General Purpose Chain
While we don't offer Grade 43 and Grade 50 chain on our website, we do sell it by request. Call to speak to one of our product experts to place an order.
Grade 30 Chain A light to medium duty chain made from low carbon steel. It is commonly used for tie downs and general applications but is not suitable for overhead lifting.
Grade 43 Chain A stronger alternative to grade 30, often used in towing and tie down applications. While it offers increased strength, it is still not approved for overhead lifting.
Working Load Limits
Chain Diameter
Grade 30
Grade 43
Grade 70
Grade 80
Grade 100
Grade 120
1/4"
1,300
2,600
3,150
3,500
4,300
-
9/32"
-
-
-
-
-
5,200
5/16"
1,900
3,900
4,700
4,500
5,700
6,600
3/8"
2,650
5,400
6,600
7,100
8,800
10,600
7/16"
3,700
7,200
8,750
-
-
-
1/2"
4,500
9,200
11,300
12,000
15,000
17,900
5/8"
6,900
13,000
15,800
18,100
22,600
-
Choosing the Right Chain
Identify the Application
Determine whether the chain will be used for lifting, transport, or general-purpose use. Each application requires a specific grade.
Select the Appropriate Grade
Grade 70 for transport and securement
Grade 80 to 120 for lifting and rigging
Grade 30 and 43 for general use
Consider Strength and Length
Evaluate the required working load limit and overall chain length to ensure compatibility with your equipment and application.
Purchasing Options
We offer several ways to purchase industrial chain depending on your needs.
Bulk Quantities
Ideal for high-volume use, bulk chain is available in full drums or crates. This option is efficient for operations that regularly use chain across multiple applications.
Chain by the Foot
For more precise needs, chain can be purchased by the foot in custom lengths. This helps reduce waste and ensures you get exactly what you need.
Pre-Cut Chain Assemblies
Pre-cut chains with hardware are available for applications requiring ready-to-use solutions, including lifting slings and tie down chains.
Custom Chain Solutions
If your application requires a specific configuration, custom chain assemblies are available. Our team can help build a solution tailored to your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chain is best for transport? Grade 70 chain is commonly used for cargo securement applications.
Which grades are approved for lifting? Grade 80 and higher chains are typically approved for overhead lifting, depending on specifications.
Can I order custom lengths? Yes, chain can be purchased in custom lengths to match your application.
What standards are met? Our industrial chain products meet or exceed applicable NACM and ASTM standards and are manufactured under ISO-certified processes.
Shipping Information
Bulk chain products are heavy, and shipping costs may vary based on total weight. For large orders, additional shipping options may be available.
