In today’s demanding packaging environment, choosing the right banding material can save time, reduce damage and support sustainability goals. PET strapping—also known as polyester strapping band, PET strap, or plastic steel belt—combines exceptional strength with recyclability, making it ideal for industries from logistics to construction.

What Is PET Strapping Band?

A PET strapping band is a woven or extruded band made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Engineered for heavy-duty applications, it offers:

• High Tensile Strength (up to 1,500 lbs/680 kg)
• Excellent Shock Absorption, minimizing load shift
• Smooth Edges that protect pallet corners and operators

Available in widths from 9 mm to 32 mm and thicknesses up to 1.2 mm, PET bands work seamlessly with manual tensioners, semi-automatic machines and fully automated strappers.

What Does PET Stand For in Strapping?

In the context of packaging, PET refers to Polyethylene Terephthalate—a thermoplastic polymer best known for its use in beverage bottles and food containers. When repurposed into strapping, PET:

• Retains the same chemical stability that resists UV, moisture and many chemicals
• Delivers consistent performance across –20 °C to 80 °C
• Complies with international strength standards such as ISO 17387:2014

What Is a PET Strapping Roll Used For?

A PET strapping roll is the form in which polyester band is supplied. It’s used to:

1. Secure Palletized Loads
   Wrap around boxes and goods, then tension and seal for transport by truck, rail or sea.
2. Bundle Long Items
   Stabilize steel pipes, lumber, or aluminum profiles for easy handling and storage.
3. Protect Fragile Goods
   Absorb shocks during handling of glass panels, ceramics or machinery components.
4. Implement Reusable Packaging
   Bands can be released and reused multiple times, improving ROI and reducing waste.

What Is the Difference Between PP and PET Strapping?

PP Strapping (Polypropylene) vs. PET Strapping (Polyethylene Terephthalate):

• Strength: PP handles up to ~360 kg; PET up to ~1500 kg.
• Stretch & Tension: PP stretches more and can creep; PET holds tension with minimal stretch.
• Weather & UV: PP degrades faster in sun and moisture; PET resists UV, chemicals and extreme temperatures.
• Recyclability: PP is often mixed and hard to recycle; PET is 100 % recyclable through standard PET streams.
• Cost: PP has lower upfront cost; PET offers lower total cost over time due to longer lifespan and less equipment wear.

When to choose PP: light cartons, short-haul shipments, cost-sensitive runs.
When to choose PET: heavy machinery, long-distance logistics, outdoor storage and green packaging programs.

Best Practices for PET Strap

1. Right-Sizing: Select a band width and thickness with a 25 % safety margin above your heaviest load.
2. Proper Tensioning: Use calibrated tools to achieve consistent joint strength without over-tensioning.
3. Sealing Methods: Employ quality buckles, seals or friction welds to prevent slippage.
4. Recycling & Reuse: Set up collection of spent bands and partner with PET recyclers to feed material back into production.

By understanding the properties and best uses of PET straps, you can optimize your packaging line for safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility. Whether you’re stabilizing pallets for global shipping or bundling delicate components in manufacturing, PET strapping rolls offers the reliability and sustainability that modern supply chains demand.