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Stretch Film 101: Everything You Need to Know About Pallet Wrapping

Often overlooked but always essential — stretch film powers UK warehouses.

Stretch film, also known as Stretch wrap or pallet wrap, is often the unsung hero of many warehouses, yet it plays a crucial role in packaging and logistics. While boxes and tape steal the spotlight, stretch film is the backbone of ensuring packages are safe, secure, and protected during transit or storage.

What is Stretch Film?

Stretch film is a highly stretchable plastic film, typically made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Thanks to its elasticity, it can tightly wrap around items to prevent movement, damage, and tampering during storage and transportation.

Key Benefits of Stretch Film

Stretch film might seem like a simple tool, but it offers impressive benefits across multiple industries:

Prevents Damage: It keeps items tightly bound, reducing the risk of shifting during transit.

Minimizes Tampering & Loss: Properly wrapped goods are harder to tamper with, ensuring your products arrive safe and sound.

Improves Customer Experience: Damage-free orders mean happy customers and fewer replacement costs for your business.

Saves Costs: By securing loads effectively, stretch film can reduce the need for additional protective packaging.

Types of Stretch Film

Not all stretch film is created equal. Depending on your application and packaging needs, you’ll come across three primary types of stretch film.

1. Blown Stretch Film

Blown film is created by extruding molten plastic through a circular die, which expands into a bubble and cools.

Characteristics of Blown Stretch Film:

Milky or dull appearance

High cling on both sides of the film

Exceptional puncture resistance and durability

Resists tearing in both directions (bi-directional)

Blown stretch film is particularly suitable for rough or irregularly shaped items that need extra protection.

2. Cast Stretch Film

Cast film is made by passing plastic through a flat die, which cools quickly to produce a smooth surface.

Characteristics of Cast Stretch Film:

Clear and glossy finish for easy product visibility

Quiet when unwinding

Clingy on one side only, making it less sticky compared to blown films

Superior tear resistance

This type of film works well for lighter loads or when product visibility is essential.

3. Pre-Stretched Film

Pre-stretched film undergoes a specific stretching process during manufacturing, which enhances its strength and efficiency.

Characteristics of Pre-Stretched Film:

Excellent yield, meaning you use less film per pallet

Very strong and durable

Ideal for fast wrapping

Application Methods

How you apply stretch film also plays a significant role in its effectiveness. Usually, there are two application methods:

1. Hand Application

Stretch film can be manually wrapped around items using hand dispensers or extended cores.

Ideal for low-volume packaging operations.

Flexible but may lead to physical strain with extended use.

2. Machine Application

Machine application, using pallet wrappers, is perfect for high-volume packaging needs.

Faster, more consistent wrapping.

Reduces material wastage while enhancing load retention.

Commonly Asked Questions About Stretch Film

1. Can Stretch Film Be Recycled?

Yes, stretch film is made from LDPE, a category 4 plastic material. While it can be recycled industrially, it’s less likely to be accepted at kerbside collections. Many supermarkets, however, accept LDPE in carrier bag collection points.

Check with your local recycling services or platforms like “Recycle Now” for guidance on where to recycle stretch film responsibly.

2. How Do I Choose the Best Stretch Film for My Needs?

To choose the right stretch film, consider the following:

Load Type: Heavy, sharp, or irregular loads may require blown film for superior durability.

Visibility Needs: If product visibility is essential, opt for clear and glossy cast film.

Volume: For high-volume operations, machine-applied film could save you time and material.

Stretch Yield: Measure the stretch yield and cost per wrap to determine the most economical option for your business.

How Stretch Film Drives Efficiency in Business

Protect Your Pallets with the Right Stretch Film

Understanding stretch film—from its benefits and types to proper application methods—can significantly improve your packaging process and cut costs. Choosing the right film tailored to your needs will protect your goods, maintain customer satisfaction, and enhance warehouse efficiency.

Still unsure which stretch film is right for you? Download our full Stretch Film & Pallet Wrap Guide or contact our team of packaging experts today for personalized advice. Secure your products smarter with stretch film solutions designed to work as hard as your business.