Polypropylene (PP) strapping

Polypropylene strapping is the most widely used for parcels and light loads. It is supplied on reels and applied by wrapping it around the parcel or group of boxes, tensioning it and sealing it. Its strength is flexibility: it follows the shape of the load, has no sharp edges and does not rust, so it works well in damp warehouses, in cold stores and with fresh produce.

Within the strapping family, PP covers light and medium loads. If the load is heavy or has to travel a long way without losing tension, it is worth moving up to polyester (PET) strapping, which has more elastic memory and retains tension better over time. For very heavy industrial loads, such as profiles, coils or very heavy pallets, the material is steel. Choosing PP for a load that calls for PET usually ends in slack straps on arrival.

PP can be applied in all three ways: by hand with a tensioner and a metal seal, with a semi-automatic strapping machine or on an automatic line. That is why it is supplied in different widths and thicknesses, and in several colours. Colour is not just about looks: it lets you tell product lines, suppliers or destinations apart at a glance on the loading dock. Width and thickness are chosen according to the load and, above all, the strapping machine or tool that will apply it.

A common mistake is strapping cardboard boxes without protecting the edges. The strap rests on a narrow line and, when tensioned, digs into the cardboard and marks it. With fragile goods or light boxes it is worth fitting edge protectors on the corners: they spread the pressure and the box arrives unmarked. Another mistake is over-tensioning: PP holds by its elasticity, and tightening until the box deforms adds no extra security.

At Fontanet Group, from Fraga (Huesca) and with a team with more than 30 years in the sector, we help you choose the right strapping for your load and the way you work. Tell us what you strap and with which machine or tool, and our sales team will confirm the available width, thickness and colour.