NPP: what is stretch wrapping?

Stretch wrapping is a simple yet effective technique used to secure and protect products for transportation and storage. By wrapping a thin plastic film around items, we create a strong, protective barrier that helps keep everything in place. In this blog post, we’ll explore what stretch wrapping is, its benefits, how it works, and some practical tips for using stretch wrap effectively.

What is stretch wrap?

Stretch wrap, also known as stretch film or pallet wrap, is a versatile packaging material that can be used for various applications across different industries. Its primary purpose is to tightly wrap items—like boxes, pallets, or even irregularly shaped objects—to ensure they stay together during transit or while in storage.

Why use stretch wrap?

Stretch wrap offers several benefitsthat make it a popular choice for packaging. Here are some reasons why you should consider using stretch film:

• Reduces Product Damage: Stretch wrap is designed to hold items tightly together, minimizing movement during transportation. This helps prevent damage caused by vibrations or impacts, ensuring your products arrive safely.
• Protection from Dust and Moisture: Stretch wrap is moisture-proof, acting as a barrier against dust, dirt, and moisture. This is particularly important for items stored for extended periods or during transport.
• Cost-Effective: Stretch wrap is one of the most efficient and budget-friendly packaging solutions available. Pre-stretched film, in particular, offers both superior performance and cost savings. By utilizing the correct pallet wrap, you can optimize your packaging line’s performance, ultimately reducing overall packaging expenses.
• Versatile: Whether you’re packaging fragile items or bulky products, stretch wrap can accommodate various shapes and sizes. It’s available in different gauges and types, including machine and hand wrap.
• Tamper-Proof: Items wrapped in stretch film are less likely to be tampered with, providing an added layer of security. You can even use black stretch wrap to keep the contents hidden from view.

How does stretch wrapping work?

The process of stretch wrapping can be done manually or with the help of machines. Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

1. Wrapping by Hand: A few layers of stretch film are wrapped around the load to provide stability and protection. This method is suitable for smaller loads or businesses that don’t wrap many pallets daily.
2. Using a Stretch Wrap Machine: For larger operations, using machines like turntables or robotic wrappers can increase efficiency. These machines apply stretch wrap evenly and securely, saving time and effort. Fully automated pallet wrappers are designed for large-scale, high-volume production environments. These require no operator intervention during the cycle.

Tips for effective stretch wrapping

To get the best results from your stretch wrap, consider these tips:

1. Choose a grade of film that is compatible with the stretching process.
2. Choose a thickness that is sensible for the weight of the product being wrapped.
3. Consider the stability of the load and select a film overlap that will cope best with this.
4. Remember that additional turns of film around the top of the load will enhance the stability.
5. Consider the journey length and the maximum number of fork-truck movements the load will undergo to determine the most sensible total of turns.
6. Always ensure that there are at least two turns around the load AND the pallet base to prevent the load sliding off under extremes of braking, cornering etc.
7. Ensure that the film is applied so that the sticky side is presented to the load. This will prevent loads sticking together.
8. Because the film has a ‘memory’, check 12 hours after wrapping to ensure that the optimum tension has been used.
9. When the optimum wrap has been achieved record all the details of the stretch, tension, overlap, wrap weight, load-holding force etc. to ensure no changes are made to the wrap over the course of time.
10. Always use stretch film from a reputable supplier like NPP where quality and consistency can be proved through process, procedure and test records.

FAQs about stretch wrap

What is the difference between stretch wrap and shrink wrap?

Stretch wrap is designed to hold items tightly together without the need for heat, while shrink wrap requires heat to conform tightly around the product. Stretch wrap is often used for palletizing, whereas shrink wrap is often used for individual items.

How do I store stretch wrap?

Store stretch wrap in a dry, cool, and clean environment.

What types of businesses can benefit from stretch wrap?

Stretch wrap is useful for a wide range of businesses, from warehouses and distribution centers to manufacturing and retail. Any business that needs to secure products for shipping or storage can benefit from using stretch film.

FAQs about NPP

What does NPP do?

NPP combines best in class packaging, high performance machinery and systems along with a partnership approach to offer a complete packaging solution. With over 40 years of experience, we provide innovative and sustainable packaging and machinery options to meet our customer’s needs.

How can I get in touch with NPP?

You can reach out to NPP through our website for assistance with your packaging requirements.

Does NPP offer customized packaging solutions?

Yes, NPP provides customized packaging solutions tailored to the specific needs of your business. We work closely with customers to ensure they get the best packaging and machinery for their products.

Conclusion

Stretch wrapping is an effective and economical way to secure and protect your products during transportation and storage. By understanding its benefits and following best practices, you can enhance your packaging processes and ensure your goods arrive safely at their destination. If you’re looking for quality stretch wrap or need assistance with your packaging needs, reach out to us at NPP!

This article was originally published by Orla Hynes/NPP.