a thermoplastic tape is wrapped around a package and is tightened by the disclosed strapping or banding apparatus . the ends of the plastic tape can be welded together by a combined strapping and sealing apparatus or even with a separate sealing apparatus . the strapping apparatus includes a positioning system which ensures that a slotted wheel intended for tightening the plastic tape , once the operating cycle is complete , always assumes an optimum position for the re - insertion of the plastic tape . the use of the strapping apparatus is thereby substantially facilitated , since the operator normally does not have any hands free to adjust the slotted wheel that would otherwise be necessary for tape insertion .