Cable tie sizes: width, length and which to choose

3 min read · Cable ties, hoses and washers

Quick answer: Cable ties are sized width × length, for example 4.8 × 200 mm. Width mostly decides strength and length decides how big a bundle it can go around. For most car wiring, 3.6 or 4.8 mm wide ties are a good starting point.

Cable ties are sold by width and length, written like 4.8 x 200 mm. Width mostly sets the strength; length sets how big a bundle it can go around.

Width

2.5 mm: light wiring and small, neat jobs. 2.5mm ties
3.6 mm: general wiring and small hoses. 3.6mm ties
4.8 mm: engine bay looms, hoses and trailer wiring. 4.8mm ties
7.6 mm: heavier bundles and outdoor fixing. 7.6mm ties
9 mm and 12.7 mm: the heaviest jobs and big bundles. 9mm ties, 12.7mm ties

If a tie is rated, the rating is set by the maker for that product; check the product details rather than assuming two brands of the same width are equal.

Length

To estimate the length you need, measure around the bundle and add enough to thread the tail through the head and grip it, plus some to hold while pulling. If in doubt, go longer and trim the tail.

Special types

Mountable ties with a screw hole in the head.
Push type ties that lock into a panel hole.
Button head ties with a low, round head.

For tips on using ties in the engine bay, read using cable ties on cars.

Quick size guide by job

Dash and console wiring: 2.5 mm or 3.6 mm, short lengths.
Trailer plug and tail light wiring: 3.6 mm or 4.8 mm.
Engine bay looms and small hoses: 4.8 mm, medium lengths.
Roof rack loads, spare wheel covers, heavy bundles: 7.6 mm and wider.
Fixing to a panel with no rail: push type or mountable ties.

These are common starting points, not ratings. Check the product details for the size you choose.

Black or natural?

Natural (white) nylon ties are fine inside, out of the sun. For anything outside the cabin, black UV-stabilised ties are the usual choice because they hold up better in sunlight.

Common mistakes

Using one long thin tie where a wider tie is needed for the load.
Pulling a tie so tight that it crushes the wiring insulation or a soft hose.
Leaving a sharp tail that cuts hands later. Trim it flush.
Joining two short ties end to end instead of using the right length.

Widths and lengths we stock

This is the full list of black cable tie sizes in our range, by width. Use it to see which lengths come in the width you need.

Width	Lengths available
2.5 mm	100 mm, 160 mm, 200 mm
3.6 mm	150 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm
4.8 mm	200 mm, 250 mm, 300 mm, 370 mm, 450 mm
7.6 mm	200 mm, 300 mm, 370 mm, 370 mm, 450 mm, 530 mm
9 mm	530 mm, 630 mm, 780 mm, 920 mm, 1200 mm
12.6 mm	230 mm, 380 mm, 730 mm
12.7 mm	560 mm

Frequently asked questions

What does 4.8 x 200 mean?

The tie is 4.8 mm wide and 200 mm long.

Is a wider tie always better?

No. A wide tie may not fit through small gaps or around fine wiring. Choose the width for the load and the space.

Sizes and fitting steps in our guides are general. Check your vehicle's manual for anything specific to your car. Questions? Call 0499 001004.

Qty	Tier 1	Tier 2	Tier 3
1 packet (25pcs)	$12.95	$14.95	$20.95
2+ packets (50pcs)	$11.95	$13.95	$19.95
4+ packets (100pcs)	$8.95	$10.95	$16.95