Hand Applied Strapping

Versatile hand-applied strapping and pallet banding secure pallets loads, bundle items and improve manual handling of heavy parcels.

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The Macfarlane Packaging team is here to help you choose the right pallet strapping solution for your packaging needs. Explore our guides, ask us for packaging advice or discover our range of strapping machines.

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We're here to help you pick the right strapping for your cargo and pallets. Explore our free strapping and pallet banding guide, find protective packaging and more!

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Hand-applied strapping is a method of securing packages, bundles, or pallets by manually applying a strap around the items using a handheld tool. This strap is then tightened and sealed to keep the items secure during transportation or storage.


The most common materials used for hand-applied strapping include polypropylene (PP), polyester (PET) and steel. The choice of material depends on the weight, size and nature of the items being strapped.


Typically, you will need a tensioner to tighten the strap, a sealer or crimper to seal the strap and strapping seals or buckles. Some all-in-one tools combine these functions for convenience.


The right strapping depends on the load's weight, the type of items being secured and the shipping conditions. Polypropylene strapping is suitable for lightweight packages, polyester for medium to heavy loads and steel for heavy-duty applications.


Yes, some pallet strapping is made with recycled content. Both polypropylene and polyester strapping are available with a minimum of 30% recycled content and higher.


Yes, but it's essential to choose the right material, such as steel strapping, which provides the strength and durability needed for securing heavy-duty loads.


Some types of strapping, like certain polypropylene and polyester straps, can be reused depending on the application and condition after use. However, steel strapping is generally not reusable due to the risk of damage during removal.


Proper tension is achieved by using a tensioning tool. The strap should be tight enough to secure the load without causing damage to the items. Over-tightening can cause the strap to break or damage the package.


Always wear safety gloves and eye protection to avoid injuries from sharp edges or flying strap ends. Ensure the area is clear of obstructions and keep your hands and body away from the strap path when tightening and sealing.


Hand-applied strapping is done manually with tools, making it more flexible for smaller or irregularly shaped loads. Machine-applied strapping is faster and more consistent, ideal for high-volume or uniform packaging operations.


Proper disposal depends on the material. Polypropylene and polyester strapping can often be recycled, while steel strapping should be disposed of according to local scrap metal regulations. Always cut strapping into smaller pieces to avoid injury or entanglement.

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Cargo and pallet strapping from Macfarlane Packaging

At Macfarlane Packaging, we offer a comprehensive range of hand applied strapping solutions to meet your packaging needs. Our high-quality strapping materials are durable, reliable and easy to use. 

Macfarlane Packaging offers a wide selection of high-quality hand-applied strapping solutions, including polypropylene, polyester and steel strapping to secure pallet cargo, bundled items and parcels. These strapping materials are designed to secure and stabilise products during storage and transit, ensuring that your goods reach their destination safely.

Polypropylene strapping is an economical choice for light to medium-duty applications. It is flexible, easy to handle and perfect for bundling products, securing boxes and palletising light loads. Its cost-effectiveness and ease of use make it ideal for a wide range of packaging operations.

For heavier or more demanding applications, polyester strapping provides superior strength and durability. It offers higher tension retention and shock resistance, making it suitable for securing heavier loads or items that might shift during transport. Its robust nature makes it a reliable alternative to steel strapping.

Steel strapping is the strongest option available and is ideal for the most heavy-duty applications, such as securing large, heavy loads and industrial products. It provides maximum strength and minimal stretch, ensuring that even the most demanding loads are securely fastened.

With Macfarlane Packaging’s range of hand-applied strapping solutions, businesses can find the perfect strapping material to meet their specific packaging requirements, ensuring product safety and stability throughout the supply chain.

Packaging advice, news and opinion

Protective packaging products and services to businesses throughout the UK, Ireland and Continental Europe

A guide to strapping and pallet banding - Updated 19.11.24
Your products deal with numerous hazards before arriving to your customer; from knocks to tumbles, keeping your product (and its packaging) safe is a simple method to minimise returns. Two popular methods for securing items together are strapping and banding! Their job is to keep products from shifting or becoming damaged during transit. Whe
A guide to strapping and pallet banding
Your products deal with numerous hazards before arriving to your customer; from knocks to tumbles, keeping your product (and its packaging) safe is a simple method to minimise returns. Two popular methods for securing items together are strapping and banding! Their job is to keep products from shifting or becoming damaged during transit. Whe
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Macfarlane Packaging, the UK’s leading distributor of protective packaging, announces today (18 March) a new automation distributor agreement with U…

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