When packaging and securing goods for transport the choice between manual and automated strapping can drastically impact efficiency, productivity, and overall costs. Both methods have advantages that make them more suited in different situations. In this blog we’ll compare manual and automated strapping systems to help you determine which solution will best meet your companies’ requirements.
Manual Strapping.
Manual strapping involves the use of handheld equipment to secure your goods for transport with steel or plastic strapping. It does provide a few benefits over automated strapping, but what are they?
Lower initial costs: Manual strapping equipment typically requires a lower initial investment compared to automated systems. This can make it an attractive option for smaller businesses that may be working with a lower budget.
- Portability: Manual strapping tools can easily be moved around a warehouse between packaging areas. They can also be taken into the field. If you find yourself regularly needing to apply strapping in different locations then manual strapping may be for you.
- Low volume: If you deal with a low volume of products that need strapping then the investment required for automated strapping may be pointless. Additionally, the increased efficiency that automated strapping provides may not matter if you are strapping a low volume of packages.
- Training requirement: While manual strapping is relatively straightforward, it does require some skill and training to do it right. Proper tensioning and sealing of the straps is very important and it can take experience to get it right.
Automated Strapping.
Automated strapping uses machinery and conveyor systems to automatically apply plastic or steel strapping to your goods or pallets. But when does it make sense to invest in an automated system over manual strapping?
- Efficiency and speed: Automated strapping systems can drastically increase the speed and efficiency of your packaging and strapping. This makes it ideal for businesses that are doing a high volume of packages and need an efficient system to handle it.
- Consistency: An automated system is best for consistency. The system is designed to apply the strapping with the same tensions and seals every time. This minimises any human error that may occur with manual strapping and provides a level of reliability that can be passed on to your customers and clients.
- Reduced labour: Automated strapping systems eliminate the need for much of the manual handling and moving of packages that is required with manual strapping. This can free up your workers so they can focus their time on other tasks and help increase productivity.
- Heavy and Bulky items: Heavy or bulky goods can be hard to strap manually due to their size and handling requirements. Automated strapping solutions are well suited to handle these products. Between the lack of handling and the consistent tensioning, if your company is handling large items, then automated strapping will likely be the right choice.
- Higher initial cost: Automated strapping equipment requires a higher initial investment when compared to manual strapping tools. However, the long-term benefits to productivity and efficiency will often see it pay for itself, especially for businesses that handle a high volume of goods.
- Safety: One of the biggest advantages of automated strapping is the removal of risk. Manual handling creates many risks and is often the cause of workplace injuries. By removing the need for manual handling you reduce the risk of injury to your workers, increasing workplace morale and encouraging staff loyalty.
As we can see there are clear cases where one strapping solution is better than the other. But if your business doesn’t fall into one of these obvious categories it could be harder to decide. Fortunately, Titan Asia Pacific has experienced and knowledgeable staff ready to help you assess your needs and recommend what strapping solution is best for your business. Whether you’re looking for a new strapping solution or just upgrading your current system, Titan Asia Pacific should be your first call.