Stretch film, or pallet wrap, is a critical element in any industry that moves loads. Stabilizing inventory during any kind of transport only helps maintain load geometry and that increases safer shipping and handling, and dramatically reduces product loss, potentially saving thousands of dollars in related mishaps.

Any load strapping needs to be done with caution and responsibility. You want to utilize a solution that secures loads, but you certainly don’t want anything that cuts in the product either. Pallet stretch wrap is an affordable and reliable option. It’s a film made from a low density and linear polyethylene. When applied appropriately, it keeps items bound tight and in place, avoiding bumps and falls under the most arduous conditions. It reduces worker injuries as accidents and load tampering is minimized. Incidences like these can cost a company much in claims and lost man hours.

Stretch film comes in a variety of widths and thicknesses. Cast wrap is engineered using an extrusion process. That’s where the material is melted and extruded via a flat die on a chill roll. After which, the material is quenched and re-solidified. The result is an excellent clarity that stretches easily while resisting tearing. This is one of the less expensive options for wrapped products.

Pallet wrap is also available in a blown form. This is a plastic melt that’s extruded through an annual slit die. This is usually done vertically to form a walled, thin tube. Now air is introduced using an opening in the die’s center, blowing up the tube. The air ring atop the tube helps cool everything. The end result is a resilient and tougher film, promising a better load hold. This is definitely beneficial when moving loads with sharp edges.

Using stretch film will require a stretch machine. Choosing the right one needs to be considered carefully. To maximize pallet stretch wrap in conjunction with any machine, you have to know what you’re currently wrapping and the number of loads you plan to wrap. The type of load is critical. Are they boxes, heavy, unstable, fragile? Of course, budget will be a vital factor. Costs between these machines will vary and should be decided based on features that work best for you and your loading situation. If you’re looking for a solution, a good idea might be to talk with professionals like U.S. Packaging & Moving LLC. They’ve got a long history with these products and can provide sound advice.

There are three general types of machines used for stretch wrapping.

Turntable Machines- This is a solid, all purpose unit that’s perfect for the majority of solutions. There are semi-automatic machines designed for use with forklifts and pallet jacks. For high capacity output, fully automated machines work with conveyor belts.

Straddle Machines- These automated options work best with fragile, light, unstable and loads that tend to be too heavy for turntable machines. Straddle machines have a rotating arm that circles the load to wrap the film.

Horizontal Machines- These units are essentially applied to facilities that have fully automated operations. Horizontal stretch wrap machines utilize a rotating carriage that passes through a horizontal ring while moving around the load.
If you have any concerns or questions about pallet wrap, a good source for information is U.S. Packaging & Wrapping LLC. Headquartered in Arkansas with shipping warehouses on both coasts, they are a leading supplier of moving and load protecting materials. They carry everything from bags to boxes to poly sheeting and pallet stretch wrap. Contact them today and let their trained staff help you make fully informed decisions about safeguarding your loads. Check out the video below using a turntable stretch wrap machine with vented pallet wrap to stabilize a full pallet of plants.