Carton Box Straps & Packaging Straps

A box strap is a flat band — typically made of polypropylene, polyester, or steel — used to secure, bundle, or unitize cartons, cases, and pallets for shipping and storage. Box straps are tensioned around the load and sealed using buckles, seals, or friction-weld tools to prevent shifting during transit.

Plastic packaging straps are most commonly called polypropylene (PP) strapping or polyester (PET) strapping. PP strapping is the most widely used plastic option for light- to medium-duty carton bundling and pallet unitization. Polyester strapping offers higher tensile strength and elasticity, making it suitable for heavier or temperature-sensitive loads.

Machine grade strapping is designed for use with automatic and semi-automatic strapping machines such as those from Signode, Mosca, Strapack, and Samuel. Hand grade strapping is intended for manual application using tensioners and sealers. The main differences are coil size, thickness, and surface finish, which affect feed performance and seal integrity.

Polypropylene strapping is available in standard widths of 1/4 in, 3/8 in, 1/2 in, 5/8 in, and 3/4 in. Break strength ranges from 200 to 1,500 lb depending on width and grade. Coil sizes include 8x8, 9x8, 16x6, and 16x3 to suit both hand and machine application requirements.

Polyester (PET) strapping is the preferred choice for heavy-duty loads that require higher tensile strength and retained tension over time. It is ideal when loads may settle or when temperature fluctuations could cause load shifting. PP strapping is better suited for lighter loads where cost efficiency is the priority.

Yes, proper application typically requires strapping tools such as manual tensioners and sealers, battery-powered combination tools, or friction-weld machines depending on the strapping material and grade. Strapping buckles and seals are also required for hand-applied strapping. Take 2 Direct stocks a full range of strapping tools and accessories for all strap types.