How to Use Strapping: Handling Steel, Plastic, & PP Straps

Strapping is the backbone of safe and efficient logistics operations. Whether you're securing pallets for transportation or bundling items for storage, strapping ensures that your goods stay intact and protected. Using strapping effectively requires the right knowledge and tools, as missteps can lead to loose cargo, damaged products, and even safety hazards.

This guide will teach you how to use steel strapping, how to use plastic strapping, and how to use polypropylene strapping, providing step-by-step instructions and expert tips to streamline your operations.

Why Strapping Is Important For Securing Cargo?

Strapping is essential for keeping goods stable during transportation and storage. Without proper strapping, cargo can shift, leading to damaged products, unsafe working conditions, and costly returns. Effective strapping mitigates these risks by holding items firmly in place, preventing movement even during rough handling or long-haul journeys.

Beyond safety, strapping also optimises your operations. It simplifies handling, reduces packaging waste, and increases efficiency in distribution centres. With several types of strapping available, it’s vital to know how to handle each one correctly to maximise these benefits.

How To Use Steel Strapping

Steel Strapping has been a trusted solution for decades, known for its unmatched strength and durability. It’s ideal for securing heavy loads like pipes, tubing, and temperature-sensitive products that radiate heat.

Step 1: Prepare Your Strapping Tools 

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools, such as a strapping tensioner, a manual or automatic strapping machine, and safety gear like gloves and goggles. Ensuring you have the right tools sets the stage for a seamless strapping process.

Step 2: Wrap The Strap Around The Pallet

Position the steel strap around the pallet or load, ensuring it aligns evenly with the cargo’s stress points. Steel straps work best for heavy-duty loads, so make sure they are positioned securely to maximise stability.

Step 3: Tension & Seal The Strap

Use a manual strapping tool or a semi-automatic machine to apply tension to the strap. Ensure the strap is tight enough to secure the load but not so tight that it damages the cargo. Once tensioned, use a sealer to lock the strap securely in place.

Step 4: Cut Off Any Excess Strap

Cut off the excess steel strap using heavy-duty shears. Always wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. Dispose of the excess strap responsibly to maintain a clean and safe workspace.

How to Use Plastic Strapping

Plastic (PET) strapping is a versatile and lightweight option suitable for securing cartons, pallets, and other medium-weight loads. Its flexibility makes it a popular choice across industries.

Step 1: Prepare Your Strapping Tools

Ensure you have a manual strapping tool or a semi-automatic strapping machine, as well as plastic strapping clips for sealing. Confirm the strap width and strength match your load requirements.

Step 2: Wrap The Strap Around The Pallet

Place the plastic strap around the pallet, ensuring it’s snug and aligned with the cargo’s key stress points. Plastic straps are ideal for securing items like boxes or lightweight pallets.

Step 3: Tension & Seal The Strap

Use a strapping tensioner to tighten the plastic strap. Once secure, seal the strap using either heat or plastic clips, depending on your tools and preferences.

Step 4: Cut Off Any Excess Strap

Trim the excess plastic strap to prevent overhang, which could pose a safety hazard. Keep your workspace tidy by disposing of the cut strap.

How to Use Polypropylene (PP) Strapping

Polypropylene strapping is a cost-effective solution for light-duty applications. It’s best for securing small boxes, cartons, and light pallets.

Step 1: Prepare Your Strapping Tools

Gather the appropriate tools, including a PP strapping machine or a manual strapping tool, along with polypropylene straps. Check the strap's specifications to ensure compatibility with your load.

Step 2: Wrap The Strap Around The Pallet

Wrap the polypropylene strap around the load, ensuring even coverage. PP straps are elastic, so position them carefully to maintain stability without excessive stretching.

Step 3: Tension & Seal The Strap

Use a strapping tensioner to tighten the strap securely. Then, seal the strap using heat or buckles designed for polypropylene.

Step 4: Cut Off Any Excess Strap

Cut off the excess PP strap neatly, ensuring there are no loose ends. This improves the presentation and safety of your packaging.

Tips for Effective Strapping

Invest in a strapping machine that aligns with your operation’s demands

Choosing between a manual strapping tool, a semi-automatic strapping machine, or an automatic strapping machine depends on your load volume and operational requirements.

Measure your pallets before strapping to reduce waste

Accurate measurements ensure you use the right amount of strap, minimising material waste and saving costs.

Ensure that your chosen strap material can handle the package you’re securing

From lightweight plastic strapping to heavy-duty steel strapping, select the material that best suits your cargo’s weight and stability needs.

Identify the stress points of your cargo

Position straps at critical stress points to maximise load stability during transit.

Make Strapping Easy with Fromm Packaging Australia

Fromm Packaging Australia delivers complete strapping solutions for every challenge. From lightweight cartons secured with polypropylene to heavy loads stabilised with steel strapping, we understand your unique requirements. Our advanced technology transforms your operations. Through cutting-edge PP strapping machines and precision-engineered manual tools, we ensure both safety and efficiency in every application.

Ready to elevate your strapping game? Explore our range of products, including plastic strapping, and let our experts guide you in choosing the best solution for your business.