stretch film Archives - Western Packaging

15 Jan 2025
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How Do I Choose Stretch Film?

Stretch film is an essential tool in packaging, offering a stretchable plastic film that wraps around items to provide custom sizing and protect delicate products. It’s incredibly versatile and is used for transportation, storage, and even sales. But with so many available types, how do you know which is right for your needs? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed choice.

Key Takeaways:

Stretch film protects products during transportation, storage, and sales.
The main types of stretch film are bundling, hand, extended core, machine stretch, and static dissipation.
Western Packaging offers a variety of roll stock stretch films to meet diverse needs.
Choosing the right type depends on application method, product size, and packaging goals.

What Are the Types of Stretch Film?

Stretch film comes in several types, each suited to specific purposes. Here’s a quick look at the options:

Bundling Stretch Film is ideal for securing small items together, such as tools or loose parts. It’s often narrower and easy to handle.
Hand Stretch Film: Designed for manual application, this is a popular choice for smaller-scale operations or irregularly shaped items.
Extended Core Stretch Film: This film is similar to hand stretch film but features a built-in handle, making it easier to use without additional equipment.
Machine Stretch Film: Used with stretch wrap machines, this type offers consistency and efficiency for larger packaging tasks.
Static Dissipation Stretch Film: Perfect for sensitive electronic items, it reduces the risk of static-related damage.

Understanding your needs will help narrow down your options. For example, machine stretch film might be the best choice if you’re wrapping large pallets daily. On the other hand, bundling stretch film works better for smaller jobs.

What Factors Should I Consider?

When choosing a stretch film, keep these factors in mind:

Application Method: Will you apply the film by hand or using a machine? Hand stretch film is best for smaller jobs, while machine stretch film increases efficiency for larger tasks.
Product Size and Shape: Delicate or irregularly shaped items may need more flexible film options, such as hand or bundling stretch film.
Durability Needs: Opt for thicker film for heavy or sharp-edged products to avoid tearing during transport.
Special Requirements: If you’re packaging electronics, static dissipation film adds an extra layer of protection. For items that need extra grip during transport, look for films with higher cling properties.

Why Should You Choose Western Packaging Stretch Film?

At Western Packaging, we understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. That’s why we keep a variety of roll stock stretch films on hand to meet any application need. Whether you’re bundling small items or securing large pallets, we’ve got you covered. Our team is here to help you select the perfect stretch film for your unique requirements.

Contact Us Today!

Stretch film might seem like a small detail, but it plays a significant role in protecting your products and ensuring they arrive in top condition. By understanding the different types and their uses, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best choice for your business. If you need guidance, contact us today at Western Packaging – our pros are here to help!

05 Dec 2020
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What Is Stretch Film?

Stretch film, also known as stretch wrap, is a highly stretchable plastic film that is wrapped around items. It is frequently used to unitize pallet loads but can also be used to bundle smaller items. The different types of stretch film include bundling stretch film, hand stretch film, extended core stretch film, machine stretch film, and static dissipative stretch film.

How it is Produced

Stretch film is a type of flexible film made from polyethylene, a polyolefin plastic material. It is commonly used to create stretch and shrink films. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is the most common type, but high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) are also available.

There are two extrusion methods for producing stretch film. It can be blown or cast. Extrusion is the process of manufacturing stretch film and other flexible plastic products. This section will break down the two most commonly used extrusion processes for manufacturing stretch film. Knowing the process, benefits, and cost of each will allow you to better understand which might be best for your company, products, and needs.

Blown Stretch Film

When the stretch film is blown it means the resin is melted and extruded through an annular die. This forms a thin-walled tube that is then blown up like a balloon. The wrap/balloon is then air-cooled. This is a slower process, but it provides a high-quality film.

Because blown stretch wrap is more robust and resilient, it also allows for greater load-holding power. This type of wrap offers higher load and stretch capacity, higher memory, and better tear resistance for loads with sharp edges. However, the production cost tends to be higher with this method. The clarity of the wrap is poor due to crystallization and is more noisy when unwound from its roll.

Cast Stretch Film

Cast stretch wrap is a type of wrap made from thermoplastic material, melted and extruded through a cast extrusion process. When stretch film is cast it means the film is extruded through a slot die, and then it is passed over cooling rollers. This makes the cooling process quicker, but the quality of the film is not as high, and it is produced cheaper.

This type of wrap provides excellent clarity, reduced stretching force, increased tear resistance, quiet unwinding, and a superior two-sided cling. However, it lacks the load/holding power of blown stretch film and has less memory and tear resistance.

Benefits Of Using Stretch Film

With its numerous benefits, stretch film is a popular choice for companies worldwide to palletize and contain products for shipping and transportation. Unlike other materials like strapping, stretch film offers many advantages, including improved product containment and securing. This confidence in its effectiveness and value makes it a preferred choice for many businesses.

With its versatile applications, stretch film plays a crucial role in the world around us. Its use in delivering, transporting, and storing most products we use, eat, display, and store is often overlooked. There are countless products and uses for stretch film, making it a versatile and indispensable tool in various industries.

What is Stretch Film Used For

Stretch film can be used for many purposes and plays an important role in the world around us. Many people do not realize the part the stretch film plays in delivering and transporting most products that we use, eat, display, and store. There are hundreds of products and uses for stretch film.

Here is a list of products that are wrapped in stretch film for transportation, storage, and sometimes sales.

Palletized Boxes- This is the most common and widely seen use of stretch film. Boxes of different sizes and weights are stacked on a pallet and wrapped with stretch film to keep them together.
Buckets- Buckets of items such as paint, liquids, and dry goods are commonly wrapped with a heavier gauge stretch film to keep the contents in and from spilling.
Wire Reels- The film can be used to unitize reels together and it can also be used to prevent the wires from unwinding.
Canned Beverages- Another common use is to wrap around beverages. They are often stacked high, and they are heavy; using the film keeps them together and from falling over with being stored and delivery purposes.
Furniture- Manufacturers and movers often use stretch film to secure the product, to keep it together, and to keep it from getting damaged while moving.
Feed and Seed- Pallet loads of feed and seed or often very heavy. Depending on the weight of the pallet shrink film can be used to keep it stable.

Uses in Palettes

Making sure boxes stay on the pallets and are properly aligned is an important thing in warehouses. In pallet unitizing, stretch film has several functions that can include:

Improved stability of products
More efficient handling and storage of loads
Some dust and moisture protection
Some degree of tamper resistance
Extend shelf life

How To Choose The Right Stretch Film For You

Choosing the best stretch film for your needs is not just important; it’s crucial. The right stretch film can ensure product stability, safety, and integrity during storage and transit. By understanding the basics of stretch film and your application needs, you can make an informed decision that will protect your palleted products, minimize damage, and reduce financial and product losses.

Understanding the basics of stretch film and your application needs will better equip you to select the ideal wrap for your business. Factors to consider include load type, product type, application methods, and cost.

Application

The application method you will use for your stretch film significantly impacts your ideal wrap type. Hand Rolls are ideal for low-volume packaging operations or where machinery is not feasible. On the other hand, Machine Rolls are ideal for high-volume environments, as they can apply the film faster and more consistently.

Product Weight and Type

Your ideal choice of stretch film will depend on the type of product you are wrapping and its weight. Light loads, like tissues or paper, can be handled with lighter gauge film. Medium loads, like canned goods, typically require medium gauge film for better performance. And heavy loads, like bricks or chemicals, will require heavy-duty film to accommodate increased weight and potential shifting.

Cost

Balancing cost with quality is crucial for selecting the appropriate material for your products and bottom line. Economic films are thinner, less durable, and suitable for light loads. Premium films, on the other hand, offer better durability, puncture resistance, and stretch for challenging load types.

Call

Shrink film has many different purposes and can be used in ways most consumers do not think about. For more information contact us.

18 May 2020
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Can You Trust Stretch Film To Protect Your Products in The Summer

When you are packing items to be shipped, your number one goal is to make sure the items arrive unharmed. Stretch wrapping can give you the confidence you need that your packages will arrive safely.

Western Packaging is a company that is dedicated to helping you with all the protection you need. They can safely and confidently help you make the right decisions for your packing needs. The information needed to know how to use your stretch film in all types of weather will be easily obtained with them.

What is Stretch Film

Stretch film is very similar to shrink wrap. This film is very stretchy and is wrapped around items during shipping. No matter the shape or size of the box, stretch film can help ensure the packages will arrive undamaged.

The most common way that you will find stretch film used is in large pallet loads. It holds them tightly together to ensure no damage is done. It uses a large piece of machinery to apply the stretch film to the pallet. To ensure it is securely applied for optimum protection.

Does Heat Affect Stretch Film In The Summer

Heat or cold can have an impact on the film. It is very stretchy and heat can definitely affect it. Caution must be used if you are shipping something that is going to be sitting in the heat for a long period of time.

In high temperatures the wrap has the potential to stick to fabrics or cling too tightly to a wooden piece that could cause damage to those pieces. You have to keep in mind that some fabrics and wood are organic and need to breathe. This can be helped by wrapping the items in moving blankets or other material first and the stretch wrap can be applied over that to keep things from shifting.

Different Types Of Stretch Film

Moisture can also be an issue when it rains if items will be outside, or even sweating from being stored in a hot area or storage building. The moisture can get trapped in the wrap and cause mold when in the heat, resulting in damage to the items.

There is a special UV protection wrap available which is ideal in the summer months, or if you know they will be in direct sunlight. They offer more kinds too, like:

Cast Stretch
Hand Stretch
Color Stretch
Blown Stretch
And several more…

Make sure all items are securely wrapped and you can ask any questions to any of our Western Packaging Employees, you can assure your items will arrive safely.

Do You Ship A Lot of Items

If you are someone who ships a lot of items or even stores a lot of items. Stretch wrap is a good option to limit the amount of stuff you use. Just think of those odd shaped items that don’t fit properly into some containers. You no longer have to worry about that.

You can tremendously limit the amount of waste you have to. You wont need to carry as much packing supplies anymore. Stretch wrap fits so tightly around your items that they don’t shift and move. Everything should stay where you have put it, and be protected fully.

Get Stretch Film From Us

At Western Packaging, we are educated on our products. We would be glad to speak with you about your needs and how to best accommodate them. Doing our best to have a solution to any issue you may have is what we do. Call us and let us help you out.

30 Apr 2020
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What is Stretch Film Wrapping Used For

Stretch film wrapping can be a lifesaver regardless of the industry you work in. When your number one goal is to keep your good protected and safe in the most secure way possible, stretch film wrapping should be your go-to option. Here are some reasons our customers at Western Packaging choose stretch film wrapping for their business.

1. Protect your Product

As a business, you’re only as good as the quality of your product. That is why protecting your product should be your number one priority. Stretch wrapping helps reduce the chances that your products get damaged in the box during transit.

Stretch wrapping can also help protect your goods from water damage, pest damage, and other destructive possibilities. This is a good option for any business that has to store their goods in a warehouse or storage facility that is not climate controlled. You owe it to yourself, your customers, and your business to protect your goods from potential damage!

2. Wrapping Irregularly Shaped Items

Let’s face it, trying to wrap or package irregularly shaped items can be the worst part of the job. These weirdly shaped products need just as much protection as normal products. Stretch wrapping is a great way to protect these items.

This is because stretch wrapping molds to the shape of whatever you are wrapping so you don’t have to worry about finding a box that fits weirdly shaped items. Every square inch is wrapped by a machine to ensure your product is covered and protected.

3. Save Space

Other methods of wrapping and storage can take up loads of space in your factory or storage facility. Using stretch wrapping on certain items may reduce the needs for boxes. As you know, boxes can take up a load of unnecessary space.

Stretch wrapping forces the air out, basically vacuum sealing the product. If one of your main goals is to find a wrapping method that can help you create space, stretch wrapping should be your go-to option.

4. Saves Time

Stretch wrapping is a much more efficient and easy method than other wrapping methods. This is because the stretch film is wrapped with a high-tech floor-mounted wrapping system that provides the perfect wrap each time. Hand wrapping can be inefficient and leaves room for human error.

Stretch wrapping can help save you and your company time, manpower, and effort. This leaves you the ability to work on other things that matter more. Your companies long-term productivity is sure to increase when you choose stretch-wrapping.

5. Saves Your Company Money

Stretch film wrapping can help save your company money in the long run. When you are using less packaging, save storage space, and decrease manpower, your company becomes more efficient. This means your bottom line increases.

As mentioned earlier, as a company, you’re only as good as your product. If you protect your product with stretch wrapping, you are practically guaranteeing that your product is also secured and will reach its final destination intact and in perfect condition. Stretch wrapping is one of the best ways to increase efficiency and your bottom line.

Our team here at Western Packaging can help you equip your business with stretch film and wrapping machines. We also offer a wide range of other packaging products and services. Reach out to us today to find out how we can make your business more efficient.

26 Oct 2018
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5 Reasons You Should Be Using Stretch Film In Your Business

Stretch film is an amazingly popular tool in so many industries. Western Packaging is here to share five different ways stretch film is utilized in businesses and why it is a must-have! When you want to keep your goods protected in the safest and most secure way possible, stretch film is the answer.

1. To Protect Your Products and Goods

Have you ever shipped something only for the elements to destroy the box it was in? Or maybe you store your goods in a warehouse or storage facility that is not climate controlled? These are just some of the ways stretch film can help you and your business.

Keeping your goods dry, free from pest, and other destructive possibilities are major for so many reasons. Your goal is to deliver or use a product in its intended condition so that your customers receive what they ask for and your supplies are ready for use at any time. This saves you time, money, and your reputation with clients.

2. Wrapping Irregularly Shaped Items

Irregularly shaped items can really be a pain to fit in boxes or any sort of packaging for that matter. These oddly shaped goods still need protection and stretch film is the perfect way to do it. Because it molds to the shape of whatever you are wrapping up you don’t have to worry about finding a box that fits your triangular shaped product.

Every square inch is wrapped by a machine to perfectly cover and protect. You will find that stretch film will become your best friend in situations like this.

3. Make The Most of Your Space

Stretch film helps to cut waste and space in your business, factory, or storage facility. If you can recall back to those famous bags that you sucked the air out of with a vacuum, they made a bulky comforter take up only a quarter of the space. Well, the same principle applies with stretch film.

With some products, the film can actually reduce the space an item takes up by forcing the air out. With harder less pliable goods it removes the space a box may take up. Stretch film allows you to wrap and protect an item while not taking up any extra space than is necessary.

4. Saves Time Allowing For Greater Productivity

Stretch film is wrapped with a high-tech floor mounted wrapping system that allows for the perfect wrap each time. Hand wrapping is not as efficient and leaves a lot of room for human error. The wrapping machine guarantees that the perfect amount of film is used and that there is no shortage or excess of plastic.

It promises a perfect wrap with no wasted time or energy. This then allows for you and your team to work on things that really matter and need human ingenuity. We know that your long-term productivity is bound to increase by this one simple change.

5. It Saves Your Business Money

If this hasn’t come to mind yet with the first four reasons you need to have stretch film in your business than here it is. When you are using less packaging, saving room, allowing for greater productivity, do you know what happens? Yes, that is absolutely right, you save your company money.

What better reason to start using stretch film in your industry than to save you money? It is definitely a win-win all around that cannot be denied. When you are trying to reach production goals and your team cannot keep this up, this is by far one of the best ways to pick up the pace so that you not only save money but make more money.

Western Packaging can help equip your business with stretch film and wrapping machines. Interested in creating a more productive work environment? We can help you so give us a call today!