Stretch Film Strategies: Save Money While Securing Loads

Choosing the proper stretch film specification can significantly lower operational costs, reduce waste, and improve load containment. This overview highlights two critical factors: High-performance film versus Standard grade Machine film versus hand-applied film
16/05/2025

1. High-Performance Stretch Film Delivers Better Value

High-performance stretch films are engineered to stretch better than standard-grade rolls—up to 250–300% of their length. This delivers win-win benefits:

  • More pallets wrapped per roll, lowering material cost per load
  • Prevents overuse of film and reduces waste
  • Enhanced load stability and puncture resistance, reducing risk of damage

Although higher in upfront price, high-performance film can reduce your overall spend on film use and waste disposal.

2. Machine-Grade Stretch Film vs. Hand Film: Why It Matters

Understanding the differences between machine film (used with automated pallet wrappers) and hand film is vital:

=> Film Stretch and Coverage

  • Hand-applied film typically achieves only 20-30% stretch from manual application
  • Machine-grade film can easily reach 250% stretch or more, covering more surface with less material

=> Efficiency & Labor

Wrapping by hand is slow, physically taxing, and inconsistent.

Machines wrap pallets quickly (20–40 loads/hour), freeing operators for other tasks and enhancing throughput

=> Material Costs & ROI

  • Machine wrapping reduces film use and labor costs.
  • Many operations recoup the cost of film machinery within months due to savings on labor and materials

Cost Comparison at a Glance

Technique Typical Stretch Pallets Wrapped per Roll Film Usage Labor Effort
Hand Film ~20–30% ~10  High High
Machine Film  ~250–300% ~40  Low Low (automated)

Why These Choices Benefit Your Operation

  • Lower per-load material costs with high-performance film
  • Less film use, reducing procurement and disposal costs
  • More consistent load stability, minimizing damage claims
  • Improved labor efficiency, leading to higher throughput and fewer injuries

Final Thought

Stretch film isn’t just a wrap—it’s a strategic tool. Investing in higher-spec film and transitioning from hand-applied to machine-applied processes can unlock major operational savings, safer load handling, and more dependable pallet stability.

If you’re considering upgrading your stretch film or machinery, choosing the right film grade for your application is key to maximizing cost savings and efficiency.

 

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