Stretch Wrap Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know

★ What Is Stretch Wrap Used For?

★ What Equipment Is Needed for Stretch Wrapping?

★ How To Choose the Right Stretch Film

★ What Gauge Stretch Wrap Do I Need?

★ How Tight Should Stretch Wrap Be?

Stretch Wrap is a versatile material used for various packaging and storage purposes – often chosen for its protective and cost-effective benefits.

However, there isn’t just a single type of stretch film. There are a range of products, each with unique benefits and considerations. So, how do you know which is suitable for your project?

In this guide, our packaging experts explore and compare the different types of stretch wrap products to help inform your purchase.

What Is Stretch Wrap Used For?

Stretch wrap has a variety of potential uses. Below are some of the most common:

Wrapping and securing palletized goods for transportation – improving stability and preventing items from moving on pallets during handling or transit.
Protecting items from dust, dirt, and moisture during storage or shipping.
Bundling and organizing multiple objects and securing loose items like pipes, rods, or cables.
Providing temporary protection for furniture or other large items during moving or renovation.
Wrapping and protecting furniture or appliances during storage or transportation.
Wrapping luggage or bags to provide added protection during travel.

Different Types of Stretch Wrap

Due to numerous uses, different types of stretch wrap exist to perform specialized functions. Below is a list of each common stretch wrap type and the purposes it is best used for:

Stretch Film:

Hand stretch film is designed for manual application without machinery. It is typically used for smaller-scale packaging, bundling, and securing of items. For wrapping pallets, many companies invest in a stretch wrap machine after wrapping more than 15-20 pallets daily.

Machine Stretch Wrap:

Machine stretch film is specifically designed for use with stretch wrapping machines. Machine stretch film offers a higher stretch rate for machines with a pre-stretched head. Machine stretch wrap rolls are also larger to reduce the number of roll changes and downtime during production. Machine stretch wrap can also come in thicker rolls up to a two-mill thickness or more.

Extended Core Stretch Film:

Hand film with extended handles simplifies the application and eliminates the need for a separate dispenser. Ideal for on-the-go wrapping.

Colored Stretch Film:

A type of stretch wrap used for color coding, product marketing, or security purposes in warehousing – hiding wrapped contents from consumer view. Be sure to determine if colored transparent or opaque film is required for the desired application.

UVI (Ultraviolet Inhibitor) Stretch Film:

Provides resistance against sunlight and UV radiation, suitable for outdoor storage or the transportation of goods. Special additives are required depending on the outdoor storage times.

VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) Stretch Film:

Offers corrosion protection for metal components during storage or shipment.

Netting Stretch Film:

Used for securing irregularly shaped or loosely stacked items. This provides ventilation and visibility while maintaining stability. Commonly used for plants and other consumable items to allow airflow and reduce mold.

Anti-Static Stretch Film::

Designed to prevent the buildup of static charges, protecting sensitive electronic or static-sensitive goods during handling and transport.

What Equipment Is Needed for Stretch Wrapping?

Stretch wrap requires various equipment to increase the efficiency of wrapping and palletization, depending on the type of wrap used. These equipment types include:

Hand Stretch Film Dispenser:

Assists the manual application of hand stretch film for greater control. Many hand dispensers feature a braking option for more film stretch to reduce waste.

Manual Stretch Film Stand: Tall stands with rollers to easily move around pallets as needed. More of a manual process as users have to walk around the shipment and adjust the roll height when wrapping.

Turn Table Stretch Wrapping Machine:

Increase speed and efficiency with a turntable stretch machine. The pallet spins while the film arm applies stretch film to the pallet in a consistent and even manner. Increased stretch rates will reduce film waste and cost.

Robotic Stretch Wrap Machines:

Pallets remain stationary, and the robotic wrapper rotates around the pallet while applying film. An excellent options for elongated pallets that will not fit on standard sized machines. Also a valuable choice for mobile pallet wrapping around the warehouse.

Rotary Arm stretch wrapping machines:

Featuring a rotating arm, orbital stretch wrap machines feature one or more arms that quickly rotate around pallets. Arms can include pre-stretched heads to maximize film usage.

Pallet Wrapping Turntable:

A rotating platform for smooth and even application of stretch film during machine wrapping. Turntables rotate the pallet but do not have a film carriage and mast for film application. Users hold the stretch wrap and manually apply it as the pallet rotates.

Stretch Bundling Machines:

Wraps irregularly shaped or long items tightly, protecting against damage during transport. Popular for wrapping pipe, molding, and metal fencing, rebar, lumber, and more. Most stretch bundling machines hold rolls up to six or eight inches wide.

Top Sheet Dispenser:

Applies stretch film or plastic sheets to the top surface of pallets for improved protection and stability. Combined with stretch wrap, the sheeting ensures the top and all sides are covered and protected.

Stretch Film Cutter:

A tool to cut stretch film, useful for quick wrapping while keeping the user safe. Automatic stretch wrapping machines have cutters, but manual and semi-auto machines require operators to cut the material when the wrap is complete. Film cutters feature a concealed blade for safer cutting than open blades.

How To Choose the Right Stretch Film

With the variety of stretch film options available, it can be difficult to know which option is best for your packaging and wrapping projects.

Below are some considerations to keep in mind when looking for the perfect stretch film product:

Load Characteristics: Assess the weight, type, and stability of the load you wish to wrap. Some thinner stretch films may not be suitable for wrapping heavier loads or odd shaped loads.
Application Method: Determine whether the wrap will be applied by hand or with a machine. Machines film rolls are longer and offer a higher stretch rate – so, ensure the stretch wrap is suitable for your application method.
Film Thickness: Understand the desired load level and stability of the goods being wrapped. Thicker films provide higher puncture resistance and more stability. Thinner films have more stretch and can be an excellent cost saving option.
Stretchability: Evaluate the stretch potential of the wrap. Higher film stretchability can cut costs by saving on material consumption used when wrapping. Keep in mind while wrapping by hand, operators are only capable of a limited amount of stretch.
Load Protection: Some products will need special protection from corrosive elements, static, or UV rays. It’s important to understand the transport and storage requirements of your products and purchase an adequate film.
Load Protection: Some products will need special protection from corrosive elements, static, or UV rays. It’s important to understand the transport and storage requirements of your products and purchase an adequate film.
Cost-Effectiveness: Consider the overall cost of the film, including price per roll, waste reduction, and potential labor costs. It’s important to strike the right balance between price and performance.
Environmental Impact: If sustainability is a concern, eco-friendly wrapping options may be a particularly important consideration. Biodegradable films can be fully sustainable, and some perform comparably to standard stretch film. Pre-stretched films can reduce overall waste and reduce environmental impact as well.

What Gauge Stretch Wrap Do I Need?

Gauge refers to the thickness of the material used in stretch wrap. Understanding gauge requirements is essential in avoiding stock damage and profit loss during transport or storage. A gauge conversion chart can help establish a feel for the thickness of a gauge.

Common stretch wrap gauges include:

32 – 37 Gauge: Standard 70 or 80 gauge film stretched up to ninety percent of its maximum stretch potential and placed on a roll. Great for hand applications because it requires minimal stretching off the roll.
60 – 70 Gauge: Suitable for light-duty applications, such as bundling small items or securing lightweight loads with minimal sharp edges. This gauge pierces easily but stretches to offer greater surface area coverage. This is a popular thickness for performance film, which is thinner and stiffer after applied to the pallet.
80 – 90 Gauge: This gauge is ideal for general-purpose use, including bundling medium-weight items, securing boxes, or wrapping pallets with medium-level stability requirements. It can’t handle excessive loads but is ideal and cost-effective for most everyday items. Many performance stretch films claim to be 80 gauge, but when measured they are not. They have the load retention, but do not mic out the same as a true 80 gauge stretch film.
100 – 120 Gauge: This gauge of stretch wrap provides increased puncture resistance, making it suitable for heavier loads and sharp items. Stock hand stretch film thicker than 120 gauge can be difficult to find. It requires a considerable amount of stretch to apply the film adequately.
140 – 150 Gauge: Offers extra strength and load stability, appropriate for heavy or bulky loads, irregularly shaped items, or high-stress applications.
200+ Gauge: Anything above 200 gauge is recommended for extreme-duty applications, such as securing heavy loads, industrial machinery, or items with sharp edges and corners. Machines with film carriages built for thick film are the best option for applying this heavy-duty stretch material.

For more information on stretch wrap gauges and their various use cases, check out our Stretch Wrap Thickness Guide.

How Tight Should Stretch Wrap Be?

The tightness of the stretch wrap will depend on the type of product being wrapped and its qualities. General guidelines include:

Palletized Goods: For most palletized goods, stretch wrap should be applied tightly to provide load containment and pallet stability. As a rule, it should hold items together without tumbling or shifting on the pallet.
Fragile Items: When wrapping fragile items, it’s important to apply stretch wrap with enough tension to secure the items but not so tight that it risks damaging or crushing the product. This can also include produce and consumable goods.
Irregularly Shaped Items: For irregularly shaped items, apply the stretch wrap tightly around the rough contour of the product to prevent shifting during transit. This is where a stronger, thicker film can be a benefit.
Perishables: When wrapping perishables, like food items, the stretch wrap should be applied tightly enough to create a complete seal that protects against moisture and contamination – while leaving space for proper ventilation. For some applications, an airflow wrap*** provides loading strength and ventilation.
Stackable Items: When wrapping stacked loads, apply the stretch wrap tightly enough to hold the items together firmly. This minimizes the risk of the stacks shifting or toppling. It is also essential to

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Is the Shelf Life of Stretch Film?

A: The shelf life of stretch film varies depending on factors such as storage conditions and film quality. Generally, when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, stretch film can have a shelf life of 1 to 2 years.

Q: Can I Use Stretch Film for Food?

A: Food-grade stretch films are available for the safe and hygienic packaging and storage of food products. Ensure the stretch film is labeled explicitly as food-grade and complies with food safety regulations to prevent any contamination risks.

Q: Does Stretch Wrap Leave Residue?

A: Stretch wrap typically does not leave a residue when properly applied and removed. However, in some cases, residue or adhesive may be left behind if the wrap is applied to dirty or dusty surfaces or if low-quality or improperly formulated films are used.

Q: Can Stretch Wrap Shrink?

A: Stretch wrap does not shrink. It is designed to stretch and conform to the shape of the items being wrapped, providing secure containment and stability during transportation and storage.

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Stretch Wrap Buyer's Guide