Stretch film—also called stretch wrap—is a clingy plastic wrap made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). It secures, bundles, and protects items (especially palletized goods) by wrapping under tension, creating a tight barrier against dust, moisture, and shifting.
1. What Does Stretch Wrap Do?
- Stabilizes Loads: Holds boxes or irregular items together so they don’t move or topple during transit.
- Protects Surfaces: Shields against dirt, moisture, and minor abrasion.
- Provides Tamper Evidence: Tears or punctures are easy to notice, deterring unauthorized opening.
- Reduces Packaging Costs: Lightweight and efficient—pre-stretched versions use 30–50% less material than standard rolls.
2. Where Is Stretch Film Used?
- Warehousing & Distribution: Securing pallet loads of boxed products, sacks, or equipment.
- Manufacturing: Bundling parts or protecting machinery components before shipment.
- Retail & E-Commerce: Grouping individual items (e.g., cases of beverages) for shipping.
- Food & Agriculture: Wrapping crates of produce or bales of hay.
- Electronics & Pharmaceuticals: Using antistatic film to package sensitive components or medical supplies.
3. Common Types (at a Glance)
- Hand-Grade Film: The thickness is generally 15mic-20mic, the width is 5cm-45CM, and the stretch rate is 200%-400%.
- Machine-Grade Film: The thickness of machine stretch film is 20mic-45mic, the width is 45CM-100CM, and the stretch rate reaches 300%-500%.
- Colored/Opaque Film: Tinted or opaque for load concealment, color-coding, or UV protection.
- Vented Film: Perforated for airflow—used with perishable goods.
- Antistatic Film: Protects electronics from electrostatic discharge.
4.Certifications & Compliance
- ISO 9001 Quality Management 🔗 Learn more about ISO 9001 standards.
- UL/CE Listings (for Machine-Wrapped Pallets): When using automated stretch-wrapper machines, ensure equipment has UL or CE certification.
5. Key Benefits
- Load Security: Prevents shifting and damage.
- Cost Efficiency: Uses less material; lightweight.
- Ease of Use: Applies by hand or machine; conforms to various shapes.
- Visibility: Clear film lets operators easily identify wrapped contents.
Stretch film is a simple, cost-effective way to keep products safe and stable. By choosing the right type (hand vs. machine, thickness, additives), ensuring proper certifications, and applying best practices, you’ll improve load protection, reduce environmental impact, and streamline your packaging process. Explore our full Stretch Film Collection for options that fit your operation.
