How to Choose the Right Strapping Band Width and Thickness

Many companies order strapping band purely out of habit, without checking whether the specification actually matches their machines and loads. The result is one of two problems: bands that keep snapping, or bands that are thicker than necessary — inflating cost with no added benefit.

1. Start with Your Machine Type

The machine is the first deciding factor, because every machine has its own width and thickness tolerance.

• Full automatic machines generally run thinner bands (from 0.50 mm) on long rolls (up to 5,000 m) to minimise roll changes
• Semi-automatic machines use slightly thicker bands (0.55–0.9 mm) on medium-length rolls
• Manual / hand use takes the thickest bands (0.80–0.9 mm) on short rolls, since they are tensioned by hand tools

Forcing a manual-grade band through an automatic machine usually ends with a jammed track.

2. Match the Weight and Shape of the Load

The heavier the load and the sharper its edges, the wider and thicker the band you need.

• Light cartons: a narrow band is enough — prioritise cost efficiency
• Heavy pallets or sharp-edged materials (ceramics, AAC blocks): use a wide band with high tensile strength — consider PET or heavy-duty PP

3. Look at Tensile Strength, Not Just Thickness

Thickness is not the only indicator of strength. Material quality determines the real tensile strength. A cheap band mixed with recycled material can be thick yet still snap under tension.

Every Medara product uses 99% full plastic material — no fillers — so tensile strength stays consistent across every roll. Our heavy-duty variant, for example, is rated up to 330 kgf.

4. Calculate Cost per Strap, Not Price per Roll

A common procurement mistake is comparing price per roll. What matters is cost per strap: a cheap but short roll that keeps breaking ends up more expensive in the long run, adding machine downtime and labour.

Need a Specific Recommendation?

Send our team your machine type and a picture of your loads. We will help you determine the most efficient specification — and provide a sample to test directly on your production line if needed.