6 FAQs About Stretch Wrap For Pallets

Stretch wrap is an incredibly excellent way to keep items on pallets secure during storage or transport. If your warehouse uses pallets and you think you need to start using stretch wrap, check out these six FAQs.

Why Is Stretch Wrap Important?

Stretch wrap is particularly important in warehouses that store or ship large pallets of products because it secures and protects the items. The plastic is extremely stretchy and flexible, making it a great way to secure all the items to each other and to the pallet so they don't fall off and break or injure someone. Typically, stretch wrap is made from linear low-density polyethylene, which does a good job of stretching far and being secure enough to hold everything still.

What Is Cast Stretch Wrap?

Cast stretch wrap is one of the most common types of wrap used. It gets its name from how it is made: with a cast extrusion process. The process melts a thermoplastic material, which is then flattened and put onto a chill roll. This leaves you with a plastic that is extremely clear and strong, but it can be torn and is not as strong as some other stretch wrap options. On the bright side, however, it is an extremely affordable option.

What Is Blown Stretch Wrap?

Blown stretch wrap uses a blown extrusion process instead. The plastic is still melted and flattened with a die. However, instead of using a chill roll to harden the wrap, air is blown into the plastic to cool it. This leaves blown stretch wrap even more durable and keeps items more secure. Blown stretch wrap also has excellent memory. On the downside, however, blown stretch wrap isn't as clear as cast stretch wrap, and it is more expensive than cast stretch wrap.

Are There Different Gauges?

There are different gauges or thicknesses when choosing stretch wrap, so make sure you know what gauge you'll need. Typically, the thicker the gauge of the plastic, the more secure it keeps your items. Smaller gauges are best for fewer items and items that don't have sharp edges. Thicker gauges, however, work great at wrapping and securing large amounts of items that may have parts that can puncture thinner plastic. The highest-gauged stretch wrap is even great for wrapping heavy items, such as metal.

Is a Stretch Wrap Machine Required?

Whether or not you need a stretch wrap machine depends on your personal situation. There are many types of stretch wrap that can be used manually to wrap pallets. These are best, however, if you don't wrap many pallets. Extended core stretch film is particularly easy to use manually; however, because it isn't as secure as other stretch wraps, it is good for keeping items safe during storage, but it's not a good choice for shipping items, as the plastic may not keep them secure enough during transport. If you wrap lots of pallets or ship them, a pallet wrapper is recommended so you can use higher quality wrap.

Is All Stretch Wrap Clear?

Sometimes, you want clear stretch wrap that allows you to clearly see what is on each pallet so you don't lose track of items. However, clear is not the only option. There is opaque stretch film, which is colored, so you can't see through it. This is an excellent option of you want to conceal valuable shipments. This type of stretch wrap also protects items better from UV rays and outlasts clear stretch wrap when exposed to the elements.

There are many options of stretch wrap. Keep your products safe during shipment or storage with stretch wrap. For more information, contact a seller in your area today. 


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