A stacked package of angle plates for use in association with a device for assembling individual ones of said angle plates into receptive flanges of HVAC duct sections is disclosed. A strap zone is defined as a portion of the stacked package located proximate to the apex of each of the angle plates, preferably from the apex to a point approximately 25% along the length of each of the legs. A single tensioned strap is placed extending around each of the angle plates in the stacked package and is located within the strap zone. The strap exerts a sufficient amount of tension to restrain each of the angle plates within the stacked package, and is preferably four foot-pounds.