What is stretch film?

Stretch film, as a kind of transit packaging, is widely applied to secure products during transport and storage. It is by nature been stretched to generate elastic power to keep items tight on the pallet during transit.

                                                           

 

 

Two main types of stretch film in the current market.

Generally, it is available in two varieties: Machine stretch film and Hand stretch film. While they both serve the very same objective, they differ in ways that make them suited for distinct applications.

                                                                 

 

 

Differences between Machine Wrap Film and Hand Wrap Film

 

Machine Stretch Film:

• Machine wrap film is made specifically for use with stretch wrapping machines. It is applied automatically, resulting in a consistent, tight wrap around the goods.
• Machine roll is designed to be applied using a stretch wrapping machine. This film is typically used in high-volume production environments where pallet loads are wrapped using a stretch wrapping machine. The film is wound tightly around the product to hold it in place during transit or storage.
• Machine stretch film is available in bigger rolls and longer lengths.
• Machine stretch film is often comprised of more durable material, allowing for improved load retention during transportation.

 

 

Hand Stretch Film:

• As the name suggests, is applied by hand. It is often used for smaller applications, such as bundling or wrapping individual products.
• Available in a range of widths, lengths, and thicknesses, making it suitable for various applications.
• One of the main advantages of hand stretch film is its versatility.  Additionally, hand stretch film is often more cost-effective than machine stretch film, as it doesn’t require the use of expensive machinery or equipment.

 

 

Similarities between Machine Stretch Film and Hand Stretch Film

• Both machine stretch film and hand stretch film serve the same purpose, which is to secure and protect goods during transit or storage.
• They are both made from the same materials, typically polyethylene, and both come in a range of thicknesses and sizes to suit different applications.
• Both types of film can be customized with a range of additives, such as UV inhibitors or colorants, to fit specific application needs.

 

 

Applied Scenarios for Machine Wrap Film & Hand Wrap Film

Machine stretch wrap is often utilized in high-volume production environments such as manufacturing and distribution centers, where large quantities of goods are wrapped and transported on a regular basis. Machine stretch film application situations include

Hand stretch film is typically used for smaller-scale operations, such as retail stores or small businesses that do not have the volume of goods that require a machine stretch film. The hand roll is also suitable for wrapping irregularly shaped products that cannot be wrapped using a machine.  Additionally, manual stretch film is often more cost-effective than machine stretch film, as it does not require the use of expensive machinery or equipment.

 

In conclusion

Both machine stretch film and hand stretch film have similar benefits and capabilities, but each has its own distinct qualities and applications. The decision between machine stretch film and hand stretch film is based on the business’s specific needs and expectations. When selecting the appropriate stretch film for a particular application, consider factors such as the number of goods being packaged, the type of products being wrapped, and the level of automation in the production process.