Banding (also called strapping) secures unit loads using polypropylene, polyester, or steel straps.
Detailed Definition
Banding wraps tensioned straps around a load, and often through the pallet, to hold cartons together and tie them to the pallet. Polypropylene (PP) strap is common for light loads and bundling, polyester (PET) for medium to heavy loads where it holds tension well, and steel for very heavy or rigid loads such as metal, lumber and bricks. Straps are joined with seals, buckles or friction welds. Banding is often used together with stretch wrap, which contains loose cartons, while straps add strength.
Choosing strap material
- Polypropylene: light and low cost, but it stretches and can lose tension over time, so it suits lighter loads.
- Polyester: stronger and holds tension better than PP, a common replacement for steel on many loads.
- Steel: highest strength and little stretch, but it can rust, mark products and leave sharp cut ends.
Check the strap supplier's break strength rating and use a tensioner and sealing method matched to the strap.
Good banding practice
Use edge protectors or corner boards where straps cross carton edges, so the strap does not cut into the packaging. Run straps through the pallet's fork openings or around the deck so the load is tied to the pallet rather than sliding on it. Avoid over-tensioning, which crushes cartons. Workers cutting steel or tensioned plastic strap should wear eye and hand protection, since the strap can spring back.
For export or rough handling, strapped loads are often combined with wrap and unit load testing to confirm the design.
Manual or automated strapping
Low volumes are usually strapped by hand with a strapping tool, while high volumes use semi-automatic or automatic strapping machines integrated with the packing line.
Authoritative Sources
- Material Handling Institute (MHI): the largest US trade association for material handling, logistics, and supply chain technologies.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Is banding better than stretch wrap?
They do different jobs. Stretch wrap contains many small cartons and protects against dust and moisture, but has limited strength on heavy or rigid loads. Banding gives high holding force and ties the load to the pallet, but does not hold loose items. Heavy, dense or export loads often use both. Testing the full load is the best way to decide.
Why do plastic straps loosen during shipment?
Polypropylene in particular stretches under constant tension, and loads can settle as cartons compress, so strap tension drops over time. Using polyester for heavier loads, adding corner boards so tension is spread, and avoiding loads that settle significantly all help. Check that the sealing method is right for the strap size and material.