What is PET Strap?
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) strap is the modern standard for securing palletised loads in warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, and export applications.
Understanding PET Strap
PET strap — short for polyethylene terephthalate strap — is a high-performance plastic strapping material that has largely replaced steel strap in many industrial applications. It is made from the same polymer used to manufacture plastic bottles, which gives it excellent strength-to-weight ratio and impressive elongation recovery characteristics.
Unlike polypropylene (PP) strap, PET strap maintains its tension on palletised loads during transit and storage. When a pallet settles or shifts slightly, PET strap recovers its tension rather than permanently elongating — keeping the load secure throughout its journey.
PET strap is available in a range of widths (12mm, 16mm, 19mm), thicknesses (0.6mm to 1.0mm), and surface finishes (smooth and embossed), allowing it to be matched precisely to load weights, machine types, and application requirements.
PACKOR supplies PET strap across all standard specifications from our Sunshine, Melbourne base, with Australia-wide delivery available.
Key characteristics of PET strap
PET Strap vs Steel vs Polypropylene
| Property | PET Strap | Polypropylene (PP) | Steel Strap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | High | Low–Medium | Very High |
| Elongation recovery | Excellent | Poor | None |
| Safety (cut edges) | Safe | Safe | Sharp – risk |
| Weight | Light | Very Light | Heavy |
| Temperature performance | Good | Variable | Excellent |
| Recyclability | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rust risk | None | None | Yes |
| Suitable for automation | Yes | Yes | Specialised |
| Cost (relative) | Moderate | Low | High |
Smooth vs Embossed PET Strap
Smooth PET Strap
Smooth PET strap has a flat, untextured surface and is the preferred choice for fully automatic strapping machine systems. The smooth surface feeds consistently through machine tracks and produces reliable heat-seal bonds.
Best for:
- • Fully automatic in-line strapping machines
- • High-speed production line applications
- • Surface-sensitive materials (timber, polished surfaces)
Embossed PET Strap
Embossed PET strap has a textured diamond or cross-hatch pattern pressed into its surface. This provides improved grip on load surfaces and enhanced friction-weld seal performance in semi-automatic systems.
Best for:
- • Semi-automatic strapping machines
- • Manual strapping tool applications
- • Applications requiring maximum grip on load surface
Explore PACKOR's PET Strap Range
Need Help Choosing the Right PET Strap?
Talk to us about your application, machine, and load requirements. We will recommend the right specification and get you a quote.
Based in Sunshine, Melbourne • Supplying Australia-Wide • Call 0402 519 618