a strapping apparatus for strapping a tensioning strap around a packaging item includes a frictional wheel that operates against a support to tighten the tensioning strap . the frictional wheel is operatively connected to a drive unit and can be lifted from the support by a swiveling lever . the swiveling lever includes an interrupting element to interrupt the path of action between the frictional wheel and the drive unit so as to be able to lift the frictional wheel in an unloaded state from the tensioning strap .