Abstract: A method and apparatus in which a predetermined load is placed upon an article prior to securing the article being strapped such as to hold said article together. The apparatus disclosed provides a means for controlling the drive force used to apply pressure to said article before strapping. In the preferred embodiment, an electric motor is mounted on a frame which allows the motor's displacement, relative to the frame of the strapping mechanism caused by the reactional torque of the motor applying force to the article prior to strapping. The measurement of the displacement of the motor relative to the stationary frame is monitored by an electrical apparatus, the output of which is compared to a predetermined value of desired force, thereby switching operation of said motor upon reaching the predetermined force.