What is Packaging Strapping?

Strapping or what is sometimes called banding is another way of securing products or material securely in bundles for shipping. Strapping comes in many forms but the two most common in distribution is metal or plastic.  Securing strapping material together is more complicated than the strapping material itself because of the variety of different tools needed.

Strapping Material

Metal/Steel

Steel strapping is designed to obviously be stronger for bundling or securing much heavier product or material. It has the highest break strength and can stand up to hotter temperatures. The downside to steel strapping is its storage (heavy coils), sharp edges and the tools needed to fasten and cut it. Steel strapping is applied manually with tools that are called tensioners, cutters and sealers (manual or mechanical) then crimped with a seal around the ends of both straps. Seals are made of steel and wraps around the strapping holding the tension. Common colors are black, brown or grey.

Plastic (Polypropylene) or “Poly Strap”

Polypropylene strapping is less expensive and is used for light to medium weight bundling (low retained tension). It comes in a variety of thicknesses, widths and blends of plastic. Poly Strap is usually embossed, and the two most common colors are white and black. Mechanical (machines) or manual tools can be used to wrap the strapping around the product and increase the tension. Sealing can be done with heat (melting together both ends), seals or buckles.

Plastic (Polyester)

Polyester is the strongest plastic choice and is used sometimes as an alternative to steel (high retained tension). Polyester is rigid and retains it tension on heavier loads with higher break strength. Most common colors are black and green with a smooth finish. It too is available in a variety of thicknesses and widths. Mechanical (machines) or manual tools can be used to wrap the strapping around the product and increase the tension. Sealing is done with a wide variety of seals.

When determining what type of strapping to use, you must ask yourself:

How heavy is the product or material?

How important is the tension on the bundle?

Will it be ok if the strapping stretches in transit or not?

More to come on seals, tools and tension…stay tuned.