Most loads that arrive loose or damaged aren't the road's fault — they come from a strapping mistake. Here are the seven we see most, and how to avoid them.
1. Strap weaker than the load
PP strap on a pallet of bricks will stretch and slacken before it arrives. Heavy loads need PET or steel.
2. Too much tension
Over-tensioning cuts into carton edges and weakens the strap itself. Use just enough tension to hold the load, and on a machine, set tension to suit the carton.
3. Too little tension
The opposite is also wrong: a slack strap lets the load move inside it, which is worse than no strap at all.
4. Seal doesn't match the strap
A 16 mm seal on 12 mm strap won't hold. The seal must be the same width as the strap and made for the same material.
5. Too few straps, or in the wrong place
Pallets usually need straps both ways, and each strap should catch the pallet deck, not just the goods. Space straps evenly.
6. Sharp edges left unprotected
Sharp edges cut plastic strap, and steel strap marks the goods. Use cardboard or plastic edge protectors.
7. Storing strap badly
Sun and damp weaken plastic strap. Store rolls in the shade, lying on their flat side.
If your loads arrive loose, send us a photo of how you strap now on WhatsApp and we'll tell you where the problem is.
Also read: PP or PET strap?
