Stretch Wrap Film: What It Is and How It Works

Introduction

Stretch wrap film is a thin, flexible plastic film that clings to itself and holds items together by tension. It is one of the most common materials used in warehousing and shipping to stabilize pallet loads, protect products from dust and moisture, and reduce load shifting during transit. This entry explains what stretch wrap film is, how it works, and why it matters for beginners working in logistics or packaging.

Basic composition and how it functions

Most stretch wrap film is made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or similar polyethylenes. Its ability to stretch and then try to return to its original length creates tension that holds items tightly. When wrapped around a pallet or bundle, the film’s elasticity and its natural cling make it stick to itself, forming a secure sleeve around the load without the need for adhesives.

Key properties explained simply

• Gauge or thickness – Often measured in microns or mils. Thicker film resists tears but costs more.
• Stretchability – How much the film can elongate before breaking. Pre-stretched film is common on machines to reduce worker fatigue and film use.
• Cling – The film’s ability to stick to itself, improving load stability.
• Transparency – Clear film helps with barcode scanning and product identification.
• Tensile strength – How much force the film can withstand without tearing.

Common forms and sizes

Stretch wrap film comes in hand rolls for manual wrapping and machine rolls for automatic or semi-automatic stretch wrappers. Typical hand rolls are narrower and shorter, while machine rolls are wider and often on a larger core for higher-speed applications. Core sizes, roll lengths and film widths vary to match different machines and pallet sizes.

Hand wrapping vs machine wrapping

Hand wrapping using a handheld roll is cost-effective for low-volume operations. The operator walks around the pallet, applying layers until the load is secure. For higher volumes, stretch wrapping machines apply controlled and consistent tension, reducing film usage and improving consistency. Machines include turntable wrappers, orbital wrappers and rotary arm wrappers.

Practical examples

Example 1: Small e-commerce warehouse wraps boxes on a pallet with 3–5 turns of hand stretch wrap to keep cartons from sliding during local delivery. Example 2: A distribution center uses a pre-stretch machine to apply film with 200% pre-stretch, meaning each foot of film covers two feet of pallet surface while using less plastic overall.

Why stretch wrap film matters

Stretch wrap film is economical, easy to use and effective at protecting goods. It reduces the need for strapping or banding in many cases, provides a layer of protection against dust and minor moisture, and can improve load stability which reduces product damage and returns. It also allows for better unitization of mixed loads where stacking stability is important.

Environmental considerations

Stretch wrap is plastic, so recycling and waste reduction are important. Many operations choose recyclable films or higher-performance films that use less material per pallet. Proper disposal and recycling programs for used films help reduce environmental impact. Some stretch films contain recycled content and are themselves recyclable at facilities that accept LLDPE films.

Beginner tips

Start with a clear, medium-thickness hand film for general-purpose use. Practice consistent wrapping patterns: base-to-top, then base again to lock the film. Avoid over-stretching by hand — it can cause the film to tear or rebound. For frequent wrapping, evaluate a semi-automatic wrapper to save time and reduce film costs.

Summary

Stretch wrap film is a simple yet powerful packaging tool for stabilizing and protecting palletized and loose goods. Understanding its basic properties — gauge, stretchability, cling and strength — helps beginners choose the right film and wrapping method. With correct use, stretch wrap improves shipment integrity and reduces damage during storage and transport.