Packaging strapping: Consider switching to polyester!

Steel or polyester strapping?

Steel strapping is still perceived as stronger when it comes to grouping and protecting heavy loads. In most situations, however, polyester (PET) strapping can be used instead of steel strapping.

Polyester strapping is becoming increasingly recognized as just as durable and tear-resistant as steel strapping.

There are many good reasons for switching to polyester strapping, including custom duties on steel imports, the rising cost of raw materials and the higher frequency of incidents involving the use of steel strapping.

We’ve outlined four excellent reasons for making the move to polyester strapping:

	1. Proven safety Many companies avoid using steel straps due to the higher risk of associated injuries: workplace accidents can be caused by their sharp edges, which can injure not only the operators responsible for applying the strapping but also the customers receiving the strapped goods. Additionally, the CNESST prescribes that workers should not lift loads weighing more than 50 lbs., yet steel is a heavy metal that often takes two people (for loads of 50 lbs. or more) to handle the product. Polyester strapping, meanwhile, is much lighter and easy for one person to carry, thereby reducing the risk of incidents.
	2. Significant cost savings Polyester strapping can generate savings of up to 20% to 30% compared to steel strapping. This is all the more true in light of the latest U.S. tariffs on steel that have contributed to driving up its price dramatically. Use of polyester strapping also helps to reduce inventory losses since it is non-corrosive and doesn’t stain products. Polyester also eliminates the need to use metal clips for certain applications, helping to generate additional savings.
	3. Reduced environmental impact In terms of environmental footprint, polyester strapping is more eco-friendly since it is a more easily recyclable product commonly accepted at sorting centres. Note that it is recommended to cut the strapping up into small pieces or put it through a strap chopper before sending it to recycling.
	4. Improved performance and durability Polyester strapping offers industrial resistance with many of the properties of steel. It also has better memory retention characteristics, meaning that it can provide approximately 2% elongation and then recover to keep the strapping tight around the package for stronger holding force. The straps consequently absorb more impact during transport. Polyester is also more durable than steel in that it is UV and rust-resistant.

 Should you replace your steel strapping?

In many cases, the return on investment (ROI) of replacing steel strapping with polyester strapping is fast, even taking into account the cost of a new strapping tool.

Are you still not convinced? Contact our product specialists, who will be glad to assist you in making the right choice when it comes to the strapping that meets your specific needs!