Pallet Wrappers in Stock

Imagine a scenario requiring dozens or hundreds of pallets to be continually wrapped with stretch film for shipment and storage, much beyond the capabilities of hand pallet wrapping. The stretch wrap machine is used daily to wrap the continual supply of pallet loads. Then, out of nowhere, the machine breaks down. The longer the machine is down, the more pallets pile up. The only options available are fixing the current machine, looking for a rental, or finding pallet wrappers in stock and ready to ship.

Troubleshoot Your Current Machine

We recommend a few remedies in this scenario. The goal is to have a working wrapper as soon as possible. In most scenarios, troubleshooting in-house is the fastest way to get the machine up and running. Have a voltage meter available to check the machine's continuity. The first thing to check is the power supply and power cord. Low voltage will cause machines not to function properly, and damaged power cords will eliminate power to a machine.

Past the voltage and the power cord, fuses usually protect the machine from power surges. Broken fuses can cause parts of the machine or the whole machine not to power on. It is essential to check each fuse to be sure one has not been blown. Many manufacturers use readily available fuses that can be picked up at local supply stores if one has malfunctioned.

Some manufacturers use specific parts that are only available through themselves or distributors. It is important to source parts quickly when a pallet wrapper is not working. Shipping parts quickly will ensure machines run with as little downtime as possible. Finding a pallet wrapper in stock and ready to ship could be the best option if parts are unavailable or delayed.

Pallet Wrapper Rental

Some larger metropolitan areas have pallet wrapper rental options. These options have set-up-and-delivery fees along with daily or weekly rental agreements. Other leasing options require a specific volume of film to be purchased for machine usage. In some contracts, it can take time to work out the details before taking possession of the machine. If you can find them, straightforward rental agreements are the best option. Have a set time for the agreement and try to stick to it. Extending rental contracts can cause additional fees to be added on.

New or Used Pallet Wrapper in Stock

If rental or repair options are unavailable, a new or used pallet wrapper in stock is vital. Used pallet wrappers can be excellent finds if they are lightly used and preferably have a reputable company behind the used machine for parts. Used machines can be hit or miss depending on the environment and wear they have experienced.

When purchasing a used pallet wrapper with a turntable, look for any rust indicating a damp environment. If possible, remove the turntable to view wear to the wheels under the turntable. Check the film carriage as it cycles and see how the pre-stretched heads perform if available. If some of these items are close to failing, they can be expensive to replace.

A new pallet wrapper in stock may be the best option for longevity and peace of mind. Unlike a used machine, a new machine will often have a warranty and new components that have not been worn. New wrappers can also accompany stretch film discounts and savings.

There are many advantages to buying a new pallet wrapper, but there are also drawbacks. The most obvious at first glance would be pricing. Most new machines will cost significantly more than used or rental options. Basic pallet turntables with no film carriage will cost a few thousand dollars. Companies can expect to pay from five thousand to twenty thousand or more for a full turntable stretch wrap machine depending on capabilities and the machine size.

Aside from the machine price, one often overlooked obstacle is the lead time before being ready to ship. The lead time is the most important question if you need a new machine urgently. Some suppliers will require minimal assembly and testing time to get the machine out to you, but that is rare. Many stretch wrap machines come with long lead times. Even standard machines can take six to eight weeks before shipping out. This delay will crush the prospects of swiftly catching up on production in a crunch.

This makes the need for a stock machine more important than ever. Stock wrappers can usually ship within days of a completed order. There are important aspects to consider when purchasing a new stock machine.

First, consider the supplier or source for the machine. If the machine is randomly being sold online, it may be challenging to obtain support after the sale.

Second, are parts for the machine available if something goes wrong?

Third, what is the reputation of the machine itself? Look online and see if you can find reviews of other suppliers selling the machines or available reviews.

Conclusion

Any time equipment stops working when production depends on it, products and orders begin piling up. Repairing the broken machine or finding a new replacement quickly is essential. However, there are times when repair is not an option due to parts shortages or equipment reaching the end of its working life. In that scenario, finding a stock machine is imperative.

At U.S. Packaging & Wrapping, we try to always have a pallet wrapper in stock for customers in a bind. Stock machines are standard machines we sell in large quantities. Machines with special features are usually made-to-order. Standard stock pallet wrappers have a load capacity of at least 3500-5000 lbs. They have a standard photo-eye to see loads and wrap semi-automatically. For more information about our stock pallet wrappers, call 1-800-441-5090 or email customerservice@uspackagingandwrapping today.