Abstract: A cinching device for tensioning and securing a line across a cargo load is disclosed which has a body formed with a sinuous guideway providing a first jam cleat so that frictional engagement between the line and the body increases as the line is drawn taut in the body of the device to secure the device to the line. An arcuate guide surface is formed in the body proximate the first jam cleat to permit movement of the line over the guide surface so that the line may be looped over an external anchor and pulled against the anchor and the first jam cleat to provide a mechanical advantage which is used to tension the line. The body of the cinching device also has a second jam cleat to receive and secure the line after it has been pulled taut by using the mechanical advantage inducing arcuate guide surface.