Introduction
Steel strapping remains common in heavy-load packaging largely out of habit rather than performance. It can rust, stain finished products, transfer impact directly to cargo, and create safety hazards through sharp edges and recoil during removal.
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) strapping offers a modern alternative. It combines high tensile strength with low weight, excellent shock absorption, corrosion resistance, and improved operator safety. As a result, industries ranging from construction and manufacturing to FMCG and export logistics increasingly rely on PET strapping for load securing.
This guide explains what PET strapping is, how it is manufactured, where it is used, and how to select the right grade for your packaging requirements.
What Is PET Strapping?
PET strapping is manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate, an engineering-grade polyester polymer. During production, the material is extruded into flat bands and molecularly oriented through controlled stretching, giving the finished strap its high tensile strength.
This manufacturing process allows PET strapping to secure everything from light pallet loads to heavy industrial products.
Typical specifications include:
- Width: 9 mm to 32 mm
- Thickness: 0.5 mm to approximately 1.2 mm
- Breaking strength: Approximately 700 kg to over 2,000 kg, depending on width and grade
- Elongation at break: Typically 10–25%
- Operating temperature: Around -20°C to 80°C, with higher-performance grades available for elevated temperatures
One of PET’s defining characteristics is controlled elongation. Instead of transmitting impacts directly to the load like steel, PET stretches slightly to absorb vibration and shock during transportation.
Properties and Advantages
PET strapping offers several advantages over both steel and polypropylene (PP) strapping.
Corrosion Resistance
Unlike steel, PET does not rust or stain finished products, making it suitable for outdoor storage, export shipments, food packaging, and moisture-prone environments.
Shock Absorption
Its elasticity allows PET to absorb transport vibrations while maintaining tension, helping reduce product movement and damage.
Lightweight
PET is significantly lighter than steel, reducing handling effort while simplifying storage and transportation.
Improved Safety
PET has smooth edges and does not generate dangerous recoil when cut, reducing the risk of workplace injuries during application and removal.
Sustainability
Many PET straps are manufactured using recycled materials and are fully recyclable after use, supporting environmentally responsible packaging practices.
PET vs. PP vs. Steel Strapping
Each material serves different applications.
| Specification | PP Strapping | PET Strapping | Steel Strapping |
| Breaking strength | Up to approximately 360 kg | Approximately 700 kg to 1,500 kg+ | Approximately 1,500 kg to 4,000 kg |
| Weight | Very light | Much lighter than steel | Heavy |
| Corrosion | None | None | Can rust |
| Shock absorption | Good | Excellent | Low |
| Edge safety | Safe | Safe | Sharp edges |
| Best suited for | Light cartons and small packages | Heavy loads, export, outdoor storage | Extremely heavy loads and high-temperature applications |
PP is generally preferred for lightweight packaging, while PET is the better choice for heavier loads requiring long-term tension retention. Steel remains appropriate for certain extreme-duty applications involving very high loads or elevated temperatures.
Industrial and Packaging Applications
PET strapping is widely used across multiple industries.
Common applications include:
- Palletized cartons and warehouse shipments
- Building materials such as bricks, timber, and concrete products
- Heavy machinery and industrial equipment
- Automotive and metal products
- Export containers and international logistics
- Food, ceramics, marble, granite, and other surface-sensitive products
Its combination of strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
How to Use PET Strapping Properly
Correct application is essential for achieving maximum performance.
- Prepare the load by stacking it evenly and installing corner protectors where necessary.
- Position the straps vertically, horizontally, or in a cross pattern based on load stability.
- Apply tension until the strap sits firmly against the load without causing damage.
- Secure the joint using compatible serrated seals or an approved friction-welding system.
- Trim the excess strap while leaving sufficient tail length beyond the joint.
Under-tensioning allows the load to shift, while excessive tension may damage products or reduce strap performance.
Tools and Equipment
PET strapping requires compatible application tools to achieve reliable joints.
Typical equipment includes:
- Manual tensioners for lower-volume applications.
- Battery-powered combination tools that tension, seal, and cut in one operation.
- Pneumatic tensioners for high-volume industrial packaging.
- Serrated metal seals designed specifically for PET strapping when mechanical sealing is used.
Selecting the correct tool is just as important as selecting the correct strap.
Best Practices and Precautions
To maximize performance:
- Store PET strapping in a dry environment away from prolonged direct sunlight.
- Use UV-stabilized grades for extended outdoor storage.
- Avoid placing heavy loads on stored strap coils.
- Always match the seal and tool to the strap width and thickness.
- Regularly inspect tensioning and sealing equipment for wear.
Following these practices helps maintain consistent joint strength and long-term reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How strong is PET strapping compared to PP?
PET offers substantially higher tensile strength than PP while maintaining controlled elasticity for improved shock absorption. It is generally preferred for loads exceeding 200 kg.
Why are serrated seals recommended for PET strapping?
The teeth on serrated seals grip PET more effectively than smooth seals, producing stronger and more reliable joints with higher joint efficiency.
Can PET strapping be used outdoors?
Yes. UV-stabilized PET grades are specifically designed for long-term outdoor storage and exposure to sunlight and weather.
What is the recommended tension level for PET strapping?
Most applications perform best when tension is maintained at approximately 40–60% of the strap’s rated breaking strength, providing secure load restraint without damaging the product.
Conclusion
PET strapping combines high tensile strength, shock absorption, corrosion resistance, and operator safety in a lightweight packaging material suitable for industries ranging from warehousing and construction to export logistics.
Selecting the correct strap width, breaking strength, sealing method, and application equipment ensures the complete strapping system performs reliably throughout transport and storage.
Request product specifications and sample materials before large-scale implementation to verify the correct grade for your application.
Amass Strap supplies high-tensile PET strapping in widths ranging from 9 mm to 32 mm, along with compatible serrated seals, tensioning tools, dispensers, and complete application systems. Every batch is manufactured to consistent quality standards and supported with technical guidance to help customers select the right combination of strap, seal, and tooling for their packaging requirements.
Visit amass-strap.com to explore our PET strapping range, request samples, or speak with our technical team about selecting the ideal solution for your application.