What is Pallet Wrap?

Pallet Wrap, also known as Stretch Film or Shrink Film, is a versatile plastic film used to tightly secure items for storage or transportation on pallets. In its simplest form, pallet Stretch Film is an Industrial form of home glad wrap or cling film that, when stretched, makes a tight seal around the item being wrapped. Maintaining the alignment of boxes on pallets is a crucial consideration in warehouse distribution. When wrapped correctly, the film around pallets secures and contains them, preventing shifting and damage. The plastic film forms a snug band around the goods when applied tightly, and with proper elastic recovery happens. There are two main types of stretch wrap: Blown and Cast, each manufactured differently. Pallet wrap comes in hand or machine rolls and is used with pallet wrapping machines.

Blown stretch wrap involves melting resin, which is then extruded through an annular die and cooled with air. This process yields higher cling quality but could be faster and more consistent in terms of extrusion and strength. The cost of production is also higher due to the slower production rate.

Cast stretch wrap is extruded through a slot die and quickly cooled between rollers. This results in a more consistent film with better performance characteristics. Although its cling quality is less robust than Blown, Cast stretch wrap can be produced more efficiently and at a lower cost per hour

Stretch wrap serves several purposes:

1. Enhanced stability of products/packages, creating a unified unit load.

2. Streamlined handling and storage of unit loads, improving efficiency.

3. Limited protection against dust and moisture.

4. Some resistance to tampering and package pilferage.

5. Partial safeguarding against sunlight (UV stretch wraps).