What is Stretch Hood Film? A Beginner's Guide

Stretch Hood Film is a type of elastic, tubular plastic film designed to be pulled over palletized goods to form a tight, protective “hood.” Unlike traditional stretch wrap that is applied by wrapping layers around a load, stretch hooding places a pre-formed hood over the top and sides, and then uses elastic recovery and machine-applied tension to secure the load to the pallet. The result is a neat, stable, and weather-resistant package that is particularly useful for irregular or heavy loads.

This packaging method is popular in industries such as building materials, beverages, agriculture, and manufacturing because it combines strong load containment with ease of automation. For beginners, the key things to understand are what stretch hood film is made of, how it works, where it’s most useful, and the main benefits it brings to pallet stability and protection.

Composition and types

Stretch Hood Film is typically produced from polyethylene (PE), often in high or low density blends. Some formulations include additives for UV protection, anti-slip properties, or enhanced puncture resistance. There are two main forms:

• Pre-formed hood tubes: Continuous tubular film that is slit to hood length and placed over pallets by a hooding machine.
• Roll stock for on-site machine forming: Flat or tubular rolls that are formed into hoods as part of the packaging machine cycle.

How it works

In a typical stretch hooding process, the pallet is positioned in a hooding machine where a hood of film is lifted over the top of the pallet using a mechanical hood gripper or pneumatic system. The hood is stretched both laterally and vertically as it is applied, which creates elastic tension. When the tension is released, the film shrinks back slightly, pulling tight against the load. Some systems also apply heat-free sealing or perforations to aid removal at the destination.

Key advantages

• Superior load containment: The hood grips the load, reducing pallet sway and product movement during transport.
• Weather and dust protection: Because the hood covers the top and sides, it protects goods from rain, dust, and dirt.
• High throughput: Hooding machines are highly automated and can package many pallets per hour, improving line efficiency.
• Neat appearance and branding: The smooth surface of the hood can be printed for branding or handling instructions.
• Material efficiency: Compared to excessive overlapping stretch wrap, hood film can use less material per pallet, especially on tall or uneven loads.

Common applications

Stretch Hood Film suits many palletized goods, especially when loads are heavy, uneven, or need top protection. Typical uses include:

• Construction materials (bags of cement, bricks, tiles)
• Beverage and bottled goods
• Agricultural produce and seed bags
• Industrial components and heavy machinery parts

Basic considerations when choosing film

For newcomers, selecting the right stretch hood film depends on load type, handling conditions, and environmental exposure. Consider:

• Film thickness (gauge): Heavier loads usually require thicker film for puncture resistance.
• Elasticity and recovery: Higher elasticity gives stronger clamping force on the pallet.
• UV resistance: Needed for outdoor storage or coastal transport.
• Slip and anti-static properties: Important for stacked or slippery products.

Practical tips for beginners

• Start with sample films and test on representative pallets before full implementation.
• Use a hooding machine sized to your pallet dimensions for consistent application.
• Train operators on film handling and basic troubleshooting, such as dealing with punctures or misaligned hoods.
• Consider printed hoods for clear handling instructions and brand visibility.

Environmental and sustainability notes

Like other plastic packaging, stretch hood film raises sustainability questions. However, modern formulations can be optimized for recyclability and reduced material usage. Some manufacturers offer films with recycled content or recommend take-back and recycling programs. Because hood film often uses less material than heavy overlapping stretch wrap and can reduce damage-related waste, it can be part of a waste reduction strategy when chosen and managed responsibly.

In short, Stretch Hood Film is a practical, efficient solution for securing pallet loads with a machine-applied, elastic hood. For beginners, understanding film selection, hooding equipment basics, and the common benefits will help determine if this system fits your packing and transport needs.