What Is 'Do Not Shrink Wrap'?

Do Not Shrink Wrap A handling instruction warning that the package must not be subjected to shrink wrap. In fulfillment the label or instruction tells packers, warehouse staff, and carriers that the unit, parcel, or pallet must not be exposed to heated film application or heat-shrink processes that enclose goods in shrink film.

Heat shrink wrapping is different from stretch wrapping: shrink wrapping uses heat to tightly conform film around a package or pallet, while stretch wrap is hand-applied film stretched around loads. The Do Not Shrink Wrap instruction prevents heat-related damage, obscured barcodes, trapped moisture, and other issues that can arise when sensitive products or documentation are sealed with heat-shrink film.

Why The Instruction Matters

Shrink wrapping can affect product integrity and the supply chain in ways that matter to merchants and carriers. Heat can deform plastics, melt adhesives, alter printed labels, and cause condensation that promotes corrosion or mold. For returns, resale, or inspection processes, heat-sealed film can obscure lot codes, tamper-evidence, or warranty seals. Some products (electronics, certain chemicals, printed materials, apparel with heat-sensitive trims) carry an elevated risk when exposed to shrink wrap.

How The Instruction Is Communicated

• Labeling On Package: A visible sticker or printed instruction on the carton or pallet marking "Do Not Shrink Wrap" so packers and carriers see it at staging and loading.
• WMS/Order Flags: The order or SKU is flagged in the warehouse management system to block automatic shrink wrapping steps in packing workflows.
• Pick/Pack Documents: Packing slips, batch manifests, and work tickets include the handling note for the packing station and supervisor.
• EDI/ASN Notes: For large customers or 3PL flows, the instruction can be transmitted in the EDI 856 (ASN) or 850 (purchase order) as a handling code or free-text note.

How It Affects Fulfillment Operations

Operationally, marking items "Do Not Shrink Wrap" changes the packing line sequence. Automated shrink tunnels must be bypassed; manual packing stations need to use alternative securement methods such as stretch wrap (if allowed), banding, corrugated covers, slip sheets, or straps. Quality control must verify that barcodes and labels remain visible and intact after packaging. For palletized shipments, the instruction may require alternate stabilization (strapping, corner boards) instead of heat-shrink film.

Who Issues The Instruction And Typical Use Cases

• Manufacturer/Brand: Issues the instruction when product materials or finishes are sensitive to heat, or when warranties require unobstructed labels.
• Retailer/Merchant: Requires it to maintain display-ready packaging or to preserve promotional packaging that cannot be heat-sealed.
• Regulatory/Carrier: Applies for products where shrink wrapping would violate a regulation (e.g., certain hazardous materials, ventilation needs).

Practical Example

A soft-goods merchant ships garments with printed hangtags and heat-sensitive trims. The merchant marks the order and carton with the Do Not Shrink Wrap instruction. At the fulfillment center, the WMS prevents the packing station from routing the carton through the automated shrink tunnel. Instead, staff use a non-heat method: a breathable polybag around each garment and a corrugated overwrap for pallets. The warehouse documents the handling in the pick ticket and photographs the pallet before loading to confirm compliance.

Tips For Implementation

• WMS Rule: Create a SKU-level or order-level flag that suppresses shrink-tunnel steps and sends an exception to the packing lane.
• Label Placement: Place the handling sticker near the primary shipping label and on the pallet headboard so dock staff cannot miss it.
• Alternative Securing: Define approved non-heat securing methods (strapping, stretch wrap if acceptable, pallet collars) and document them in SOPs.
• Carrier Communication: Notify carriers and LTL providers in advance if pallet-level heat wrap is forbidden; some carriers may have minimum load securement requirements.
• Training: Train operators to distinguish shrink wrap from stretch wrap and to follow the exception workflow.

In short, the Do Not Shrink Wrap instruction protects heat-sensitive products, keeps labels and lot information readable, and preserves returnability or presentation requirements. Implement it with explicit WMS flags, clear labels, alternative load-securement methods, and documented SOPs so fulfillment and carrier partners apply the restriction consistently.