Poly strapping, polyester and steel strapping
We supply poly strapping, polyester strapping and steel strapping, plus the seals, buckles, kits and hand tools to apply it, delivered to your dock at one price.
Strap, seals, kits and hand tools. We do not sell strapping machines.
Which strapping fits your load
| Type | Strength | Fits | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polypropylene (poly) | Lowest of the three | Light to medium loads, bundling, carton closing and palletizing | Loses some tension after it goes on |
| Polyester (PET) | High | Medium to heavy rigid loads such as brick, block, lumber, cans and bottles | Costs more than poly |
| Steel | Highest | Very heavy, sharp-edged or hot loads | Can rust, and cut ends are sharp |
Break strength depends on width and thickness, and a heavier strap of the same width is stronger. Tell us the load and we will suggest a size.
Poly strapping
Polypropylene strapping is the most common and least expensive strap. It stretches and recovers, which suits loads that settle a little, but it holds less tension over time than polyester. Hand-applied poly is commonly around 1/2 inch wide.
A poly strapping kit bundles a coil, a dispenser cart, a tensioner, a sealer and seals. It is an easy way to start strapping by hand.
Polyester strapping
Polyester (PET) strapping is stiffer and holds tension well on rigid loads, so it often replaces steel on brick, block, lumber and bundled goods. It does not rust, and its cut ends are far less dangerous than steel.
Steel strapping
Steel strapping is the strongest option and stretches very little. It is still the choice for very heavy or sharp-edged loads and for hot products that would soften plastic strap. Steel holds its first tension, so it is a poor fit for bundles that settle in transit. Store it dry, and cut it with a proper cutter while standing to the side.
Common jobs and the strap that fits
Bundling and carton closing
Poly strapping. Light, cheap and easy to apply by hand.
Cases on a pallet
Poly for light loads, polyester for heavy ones. Add corner boards so the strap does not crush carton edges.
Brick, block and lumber
Polyester. It holds tension on rigid loads and does not rust outdoors.
Coils, metal and very heavy loads
Steel strapping, applied with steel seals and steel strapping tools.
Strapping tools, seals and buckles
- Tensioners pull the strap tight. Use one made for your strap type and width.
- Sealers crimp a metal seal over the overlapped strap. Combination tools tension, seal and cut in one.
- Seals and buckles sized to the strap width and thickness
- Dispensers keep the coil from tangling and make strapping faster
- Steel strapping tools include push-type, feed wheel and windlass tensioners for different jobs
What to send for a strapping quote
- Strap type, width and thickness, or a photo of the coil label
- Coil and core size if you use a dispenser
- The seals or buckles you use now
- Coils a month and the delivery address
Common questions
Is poly strapping strong enough for pallets?
For light and medium loads, yes. Heavy, rigid or sharp-edged loads usually need polyester or steel.
Can polyester strapping replace steel strapping?
On many rigid loads, yes, and it does not rust. Very heavy, sharp or hot loads still call for steel.
Do you sell strapping machines?
No. We supply strap, seals, kits and hand tools. If you run a machine, tell us the model and we will quote strap made for it.
What is in a poly strapping kit?
A coil of poly strap, a dispenser cart, a tensioner, a sealer and a box of seals.
Get a delivered price
Pricing comes back within two business days, with freight in the price.
Buying several things? Send one invoice for a free cost review.