Vertical Strapping with Edge Protectors: The Best Combination for Total Stability of Palletized Loads

How to ensure maximum load stability? How to prevent unexpected accidents or product shifts during transportation? Protecting and securing goods is crucial for meeting delivery deadlines and objectives in an increasingly demanding logistics environment. In fact, many companies, including major international corporations, face common issues such as product damage, losses, accidents, product deterioration, and, consequently, damage to their brand image. These recurring problems are caused by inadequate load securing. In this context, it’s essential to have automated and efficient packaging systems that ensure maximum load security and stability.

One of the most effective methods for securing loads is automatic strapping, available in both vertical and horizontal models. When combined with edge protectors, pallet strapping not only enhances the stability of palletized loads but also protects the products from damage during transportation.

In this article, we’ll explore the key advantages of the Vertical Strapping system for pallets and how it can solve the most common load-securing problems.

Problems Caused by Improper Load Securing

The objective is clear: loads must arrive at their destination in flawless condition, and this is a crucial priority for manufacturing and distribution companies. However, problems caused by improper load securing are more common than they may appear, resulting in additional costs for the company—both financially and in terms of its reputation.

The most frequent problems include:

1. Cargo shifting: Improperly secured goods on pallets can shift during transport, leading to instability and potential damage.

2. Damage to packaging: A poorly secured load can cause boxes to be crushed or torn, affecting both the structural integrity and presentation of the products.
3. Product loss: In extreme cases, products can fall off the pallet entirely, leading to direct losses and supply interruptions.
4. Workplace safety and traffic accidents: Load instability also poses a risk to workers handling the goods and can lead to traffic accidents.

In the UE, according to the European Commission, 25% of accidents in the professional transportation sector are directly related to improper load securing.

In the US, there is a similar report, as 30% of fatal crashes in the United States were wrecking involving trucks, according to the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

These issues highlight the need for a reliable securing system to ensure products remain stable during transportation. This is why an automatic securing system like vertical strapping is often the preferred choice for many companies due to its versatility and effectiveness.

Why Choose Vertical Strapping for Load Securing?

Vertical strapping has proven to be an effective solution for securing loads due to its versatility and results. Whether in semi-automatic or fully automatic models, its primary function is to firmly bind stacked boxes or products to the pallet, ensuring that the load remains stable even during sudden movements or long distances.

Automating this process ensures consistent and optimal tension for each strap, reducing the risk of human error. Automation also enhances production speed, leading to efficient and uniform packaging while maintaining secure quality.

Key Benefits of Automating Vertical Strapping:

1. Load stability: Strapping ensures that products stay in place during transportation, reducing the risk of shifting and damage.
2. Reduced damage: By keeping the load firmly attached to the pallet, the impact of movement on the boxes and their contents is minimized.
3. Increased safety: By ensuring load stability, the risk of accidents during transportation and handling is reduced.

Automatic Edge Protector Applicator: The Essential Strapping Accessory

To maximize the effectiveness of the vertical strapping system, we recommend using edge protectors, not only to protect the boxes but also to ensure proper strapping.

Automatic strapping systems often incorporate an edge protector applicator, as this type of protection is in high demand in the market. In the case of Innova’s vertical strapping system, the applicator places edge protectors (usually cardboard corners) on the edges of the boxes before strapping, to provide better unitization and compactness before securing the straps.

Benefits of Using an Edge Protector Applicator with Strapping:

1. Product protection: Edge protectors act as a protective barrier, preventing the strap from damaging the corners or edges of more delicate products and boxes.
2. Even pressure distribution: By placing edge protectors, the pressure exerted by the strap is distributed more evenly, helping maintain the integrity of the packaging.
3. Automation and process safety: Integrated with the strapping system, the automatic edge protector applicator works in sync, ensuring a fast and efficient process without manual intervention.
4. Improved aesthetics: Edge protectors also help give the load a more professional and orderly appearance, which is essential for products displayed in retail outlets.
5. Cost optimization: By reducing damage during transport, companies can minimize losses due to damaged or returned products, translating into long-term cost savings.
6. Sustainability: Using recyclable materials in both edge protectors and straps contributes to more sustainable practices aligned with the principles of the circular economy.

In summary, the automatic vertical strapping system, when paired with the edge protector applicator, offers a robust and efficient solution for companies aiming to enhance load security during transportation. This technology not only helps prevent common issues associated with inadequate product securing but also boosts packaging efficiency, ensuring that products arrive at their destination in excellent condition.

If your company is facing challenges with load protection during transportation, implementing a vertical strapping system with an edge protector applicator could be the key to reducing risks, improving packaging quality, and optimizing your logistics chain. With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing packaging systems, we can advise you on the best protection and securing solutions for your product. Consult our technical sales team for advice without obligation—we’ll be happy to assist you.