Strapping for compacted products: a reliable solution for sustainable packaging

Securely fastening compressed paper and cardboard products is essential in printing, packaging and recycling. Specialist paper strapping keeps bundles intact during transport, storage and loading. It supports reliability, safety and order throughout the process.

Where is strapping used?

Paper strapping is widely used wherever large volumes of printed material or waste paper are handled. Printers secure bundles of newspapers, magazines and books; recyclers tie cardboard, waste paper and briquettes. In warehouses and logistics centres, strapping stabilises compressed products, especially when stacked.

In waste baling, strapping prevents blocks deforming or expanding. This supports order and safety, as loose or scattered waste creates injury and fire risks.

Even where manual balers are used, such as small workshops, offices or archives, a tensioner and seal can secure tidy bundles conveniently and economically.

Types of strapping

Two main types are commonly used:

• Polypropylene (PP) strapping — light and flexible, suitable for medium-weight bundles up to approximately 300–400 kg. Moisture-resistant and economical, but unsuitable for very dense or heavy blocks.
  
• Polyester (PET) strapping — strong and elastic, designed for heavy loads and intense pressure. Suited to industrial balers, long-term storage or outdoor use, with resistance to UV and temperature changes and good shape retention.
  

There are also hybrid straps, combining properties of both types or reinforcing materials. These suit automated lines that wrap and friction-weld the strapping without metal buckles or additional seals.

Paper strapping. Selection criteria

Choosing suitable strapping depends on several factors:

1. Bundle weight and density — heavier bundles need stronger, wider strapping. PET is stronger than PP and suits waste-paper blocks and other heavy materials.
   
2. Storage conditions — outdoor or damp conditions call for resistance to UV and temperature changes. PET offers an advantage here.
   
3. Strap dimensions — width typically ranges from 12 to 19 mm. Greater width and thickness increase load capacity.
   
4. Fastening method — automatic friction welding or manual fastening with metal buckles.
   
5. Colour — some logistics centres use colour coding to identify products or customer shipments.
   

An economical, sustainable option

Baler strapping — one of the most economical ways to package compressed products. Compared with stretch film or cardboard boxes, strapping uses little material, is easy to apply and provides long service from one reel.

Both main strapping types, PP and PET, are recyclable, supporting sustainability goals. Used straps can be sorted, collected and sent for recycling, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.

Orderly disposal matters: loose or tangled straps in warehouses can create slip and trip hazards. Proper collection supports safety and a tidy appearance.

Automation for greater efficiency

High-volume manufacturing and logistics businesses increasingly use automatic strapping systems. They secure compressed products without manual intervention, wrapping and welding the strap. This reduces human error and increases speed and productivity.

Automated systems also provide consistent tension, especially valuable when storing or transporting more sensitive compressed materials.

Conclusion

Strapping is more than packaging. It protects products, improves efficiency and supports a sustainable production and logistics chain. Correct selection and responsible use:

• reduce damage risks,
  
• improve packaging and transport processes,
  
• save costs,
  
• and support company sustainability goals.
  

For compressed paper, cardboard or waste-paper products, strapping is an essential everyday tool. Find strapping, wire and accessories in the strapping supplies category.