In this blog we show you how to use composite strapping, Composite strapping, also known as synthetic or corded polyester strapping, is one of the safest and strongest alternatives to steel. At MPS, we supply a full range of composite strapping and tensioners designed for heavy-duty loads, export packaging, and outdoor applications where reliability matters.
What is Composite Strapping?
Composite strapping is made from high-tensile polyester fibres coated in a tough polymer jacket. This construction provides excellent strength, UV and moisture resistance, and a smooth surface that won’t damage your products. It’s commonly used in timber yards, steel distribution, machinery export, and building materials transport.
Compared to steel strap, composite is non-corrosive, lightweight, and safer to cut—making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor packaging applications.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Composite Strapping
Step 1: Wrap the Strap Around Your Goods
Begin by wrapping the composite strapping securely around your load. When using a wire buckle, it’s best to start by running the strap underneath the goods first. This ensures less strapping is wasted in the process.
Step 2: Insert the Tail End Through the Buckle
Feed the tail end (the loose end of the strap) through the lower side of the buckle. While it can be feed straight through the buckle, we recommend looping it through— As this method is faster and easier.
Step 3: Insert the Dispenser End Through the Buckle
Next, feed the dispenser end (the end still connected to the roll) through the top side of the buckle to form a loop. Avoid cutting the strap at this stage. By tensioning directly from the dispenser, you’ll reduce waste and maintain better control during application.
Step 4: Load the Bottom Strap into the Tensioner
Place your tensioner about one foot away from the buckle. Insert the bottom strap under the cutter blade and into the rear gripper, then squeeze the handle to secure it. This setup ensures smooth, even tensioning without damaging the strap.
Step 5: Load the Top Strap and Remove Slack
Before you start tensioning, remove as much slack as possible by hand. Windlass-style tensioners have a limited take-up range, so removing slack ensures maximum tightening force. Then, feed the top strap through the cutter blade and into the windlass mechanism.
Step 6: Tension the strapping
Begin tensioning until the strap is firm and the buckle compresses onto the fibres.
Step 7: Cutting the cord strapping
Once the desired tension is reached, squeeze the cutter handle to cut the strapping cleanly. The buckle will lock tightly onto the strap, creating a strong and secure hold.
Composite strapping Finish
Composite strapping demo video
In the video below, we demonstrate how to correctly apply composite strapping using a manual tensioner and wire buckle, following the exact steps outlined above. The video shows the full process from start to finish — wrapping the strap around the load, threading both the tail and dispenser ends through the buckle, loading the tensioner, and tightening the strap to achieve a secure hold. You’ll see how the MPS composite strapping grips firmly within the buckle, creating a strong and reliable joint. This visual guide makes it easy to understand the correct technique and helps ensure you get the best performance from your strapping system.
Composite strapping kits
Composite strapping kits offer a complete, ready-to-use solution for securing heavy or irregular loads. Each kit includes high-strength composite strapping, durable galvanised wire buckles, and a manual tensioner — everything you need to strap pallets, timber packs, steel bundles, or machinery safely and efficiently.
Designed for convenience, for use in transport companies, or warehouses that need a portable, non-metal alternative to steel strapping. MPS composite strapping kits deliver exceptional holding power, resistance to moisture and corrosion, and the flexibility to secure loads of almost any shape, making them one of the most reliable and user-friendly load-restraint systems available.
Why Choose Composite Strapping from MPS Packaging Australia?
- High breaking strength
- Safer to handle than steel strapping
- Non-corrosive and weather-resistant for outdoor use
- Soft to touch, less likely to scratch goods
- Works with simple hand tensioners
Composite strapping provides the perfect balance between strength, safety, and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for bundling pallets, crates, timber packs, and machinery for domestic or export use.
Get Composite Strapping from MPS Packaging Australia
MPSPack stocks a complete range of composite strapping, buckles, and tensioners ready for fast delivery across Australia. Whether you need a manual strap kit for onsite use or a full strapping system for industrial operations, our team can help you choose the right setup.
