Pallet shrink wrap is used to secure and protect loads for shipment and storage. Pallet shrink wrap is commonly used to unitize boxes of goods, but it can be used with many load sizes, shapes, and products. Many misconceptions should be clarified about the material, beginning with the name. Below are a few misunderstandings about pallet shrink wrap and a short explanation to help better describe this mystery material.
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The Material Shrinks
A pallet heat shrink wrap will shrink when heat is applied. This is a different material than what many people call pallet shrink wrap. Propane heat guns are used to apply heat to the shrinkable material. Most pallet heat shrink wrap is available in various bag sizes to fit pallet loads. Polyethylene is a common material used in pallet heat shrink wrap.
The term pallet shrink wrap is more often used for a stretch film. Stretch film is thinner than a pallet heat shrink wrap. Stretch film is available in hand rolls or machine rolls. When the material is dispensed from the roll, it stretches around the load to hold the products tightly together. This firmly pulled outer protection will unitize the load. It is essential to wrap the products and the pallet. With bumps and regular road conditions, the unitized load can move or shift off the pallet during transport. The stretching of the material also helps to reduce waste. Rolls are capable of stretching hundreds of percent.
Pallet Shrink Wrap is the Same as Food Wrap
Pallet stretch film does have some cling to one side and possibly two, but it is much different than food wrap. The cling in pallet wrap is often found on one side to help the film stick to itself. Pallet shrink wrap is made from LLDPE with additives. These additives, called plasticizers, make the material more flexible and stretchable.
Food cling wrap is made from a different material with much less stretch capabilities than food pallet wrap. Food cling is made from a PVC material and is much thinner than most pallet wrapping films. Wrapping and securing a load with food cling wrap would be a waste of resources and would not be an effective way to wrap pallets.
Pallet Shrink Wrap is Food-Safe
Stretch film for wrapping pallets is not for direct food contact unless explicitly stated on the film. Most hand or machine wrap is made in facilities not designated for food-safe production. Some blown and unique wraps are considered food-safe, but they must be detailed explicitly with documentation. Foods in boxes or containers are always wrapped with pallet wrap. The wrap mustn't cause condensation for cold storage, which can lead to mold and spoilage.
Pallet Shrink Wrap Can be Wrapped Without Stretching
Prestretched stretch film comes on the roll stretched up to ninety percent and does not require much pulling or stretching during application. This is an excellent option for uniform loads. For heavier loads and anything with sharp edges or corners, the film should be capable of being stretched or pulled tightly around the pallet. The stretching secures products as one load. It also helps to keep the load on the pallet. Reaching the maximum stretch rate also reduces waste and increases the number of pallets each roll can wrap.
Machine and Hand Pallet Wrap are the Same
Premium hand pallet wrap can stretch up to 150% with consistent tension during application. Hand dispensers have brakes to help attain more stretch while manually applying the film. The brake can be adjusted to pull the tightly without breaking the load of goods being wrapped.
Stretch wrap machines can reach higher stretch rates of up to 300%. A pre-stretched head pulls the film with rollers to stretch it before it is wrapped around the pallet. This is why using machine wrap on a machine is vital. A hand wrap will not stretch to the total amount, and issues will occur.
Conclusion
There are many misunderstandings related to pallet shrink wrap. If you are searching for a thicker material to apply heat to, pallet heat shrink wrap is the correct item. Many pallet shrink wrap bags are four mils or thicker, and a propane heat gun is used to apply heat.
Pallet stretch wrap is also often referenced as pallet shrink wrap. The material does not shrink; it stretches. The stretching helps to secure pallet loads during transport and storage. If you have questions about pallet heat shrink wrap or pallet stretch film, call 1-800-441- or shop online at uspackagingandwrapping.com.
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Shrink wrap and pallet wrap are both common packaging materials used in a variety of industries. These two products are often used interchangeably, however, they're not the same thing.
In this blog, we take a closer look at the two materials, comparing their properties, uses, and benefits. Whether you need packaging solutions for a small business or a full-scale warehouse, this guide will clarify the difference between shrink wrap and pallet wrap and help you determine which one is right for you.
What is shrink wrap?
Shrink wrap is a thin plastic film made of polyethylene that is used to wrap and secure individual items. When heat is applied to the wrap, it shrinks, forming a tight and secure fit around the item being packaged. This creates a barrier that protects the item from dust, moisture, and other environmental elements during shipping and storage.
Pros of using shrink wrap:
- Provides a protective barrier against dust and moisture.
- Suitable for small to medium-sized products.
- Cost-effective.
- Easy to use.
Cons of using shrink wrap:
- Some people are sensitive to the fumes produced when shrink wrap is heated.
- Can be a fire hazard if not used properly.
- Not suitable for heavy or fragile items.
When to use shrink wrap
If you are looking for a plastic wrap to package your products for display on store shelves, the glossy sheen and transparent appearance of shrink film make it a suitable choice. Due to the effective layer of protection, it provides, shrink wrap is ideal for packaging small products like books, food, electronics, appliances, tools, homewares, toys, and medical supplies.
What is pallet wrap?
Pallet wrap, also known as stretch wrap, is a thin plastic film that is used to wrap and secure groups of items on a pallet for shipping and storage. Unlike shrink wrap, pallet wrap is stretchable and is designed to tightly secure items together on a pallet to prevent them from shifting during transportation.
Pros of using pallet wrap:
- Keeps items securely in place on a pallet.
- Cost-effective.
- An efficient way to secure large loads of items.
- Tough and durable.
- Suitable for heavy loads and rough handling.
- Easy to use.
- Does not require any specialised equipment.
Cons of using pallet wrap:
- May not provide enough protection for fragile or delicate items.
- Can be a hazard if it is not disposed of properly.
When to use pallet wrap
If you are looking for protective packaging that prevents damage during shipping or storage, pallet wrap is the right choice. Its strength is effective at keeping items in place and protecting the contents from dust, moisture, and other external elements. It can be used for shipping, transportation, warehouse storage, uniting loose items, and protecting products from the weather.
How to wrap a pallet
The goal of pallet wrapping is to keep the load stable, prevent damage during transit, and make it easier to handle. The key steps are as follows:
- Check the pallet is clean and free of any sharp edges.
- Place your items on the pallet.
- Choose the right type of pallet wrap. It must be suitable for the weight and size of the load.
- Wrap around the base of the pallet and continue upwards, overlapping by at least 50%.
- When you reach the top, cut the wrap, secure the end with tape, and label the load.
The goal of pallet wrapping is to keep the load stable, prevent damage during transit, and make it easier to handle. The key steps are as follows:
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In conclusion, pallet wrap and shrink wrap are both versatile packaging solutions offering different benefits, depending on the type of items you need to package. While shrink wrap is ideal for smaller individual items, pallet wrap is designed to provide stability and protection for larger groups of items on a pallet.
At Primepac, we offer a range of pallet wrap solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers, including stretch wrap, sustainable wrap, handheld grip wrap, and machine wrap.
Stretch wrap
Suitable for securely wrapping large loads, stretch film wrap is made of a flexible plastic material that can be stretched and tightened around the items being packaged. This provides a secure and snug fit, even for irregular shapes. Stretch pallet wrap is commonly used in various industries, including logistics, retail, and manufacturing. Popular product lines include the Easywrap range and the Ultiwrap range.
Sustainable wrap
For a more environmentally friendly option our sustainable wrap, Purewrap, is made from sustainably-grown sugar cane. It's also 100% recyclable. As many businesses strive to reduce their environmental impact, the piles of plastic waste in your warehouse are a wise place to start and opting for a sustainable pallet wrap is the perfect first step.
Handheld grip wrap
If your team wraps pallets by hand, an ergonomic pallet wrap solution is a must. Our handheld grip wraps are easy to use and perfect for lightweight loads. We also recommend investing in a pallet wrap dispenser to streamline your packing operations.
Machine wrap
For a more efficient and consistent way to secure goods on pallets, consider opting for machine wrapping. The pallet wrapping machine applies stretch wrap evenly and tightly around the pallet, saving your staff time and energy. This is a cost-effective option for companies that wrap a high volume of pallets and is commonly used in logistics, retail, and manufacturing.
At Primepac, we strive to keep your business running smoothly. That's why we have a wide range of high-quality pallet wraps and accessories to streamline your packing operations. Our friendly team is always happy to provide expert advice, and our same-day dispatch means your team can keep up the good work without delay.
No matter what your packaging needs are, we have an effective solution for you. Contact us today for practical advice or browse our extensive range below.
Want more information on Pallet Wrapping Machine Suppliers? Feel free to contact us.