Choosing the right pallet wrap is essential to the success and safety of your warehouse. Using the right type of stretch wrap can keep products organized and stable during storage and transit while choosing the wrong type can result in lost products, damage, and an inefficient wrapping process. Whether you've just started a warehouse or have worked in an industrial setting for years, it's essential to stay educated on the different types of pallet wrap available to you and what sets them apart. We'll investigate the various types of stretch wrap, the most common stretch wrap gauges, and accessories that can improve your wrapping process below.
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Stretch wrap, also called stretch film or pallet wrap, is used to secure goods to a pallet. It serves as a protective barrier, keeping items tightly bound together during transportation or storage. Stretch wrap prevents goods from shifting, sliding, or toppling, reducing the risk of damage during transit. Most stretch wraps are made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).
Stretch wrap is available in various thicknesses, widths, and lengths to accommodate different packaging needs. Thicker films offer increased strength and puncture resistance, making them suitable for heavier or more fragile items. Meanwhile, narrower films are ideal for smaller packages or when a lighter touch is required.
There are two main classifications for stretch wrap material: blown stretch wrap and cast stretch wrap. Each type features distinct characteristics that set them apart, and both are used for a wide range of industrial applications.
With so many different types of pallet wrap available, it can be difficult to identify which one fits your warehouse's needs. Ultimately, the type of pallet wrap you choose depends on the types of products you ship and how large your operation is. We'll introduce the most popular types of pallet wrap below:
One of the most popular types of pallet wrap is general-purpose stretch wrap, which is known for its cost-effectiveness and versatility. General-purpose stretch wrap is meant to withstand the rigors of transportation and handling, ensuring that your products arrive at their destination intact. It can be used to wrap everything from lightweight boxes to heavy machinery, making it a go-to choice for many types of warehouses. This tear- and puncture-resistant film protects your products from dust, moisture, and tampering.
General Purpose Wrap Characteristics
Color stretch wrap is a specialty stretch wrap that allows you to color-code your warehouse. By assigning different colors of stretch wrap to pallets, warehouse managers can quickly and easily identify products or shipments. Some warehouses wrap products in different colors based on their production date, allowing them to track which are the oldest. Color stretch wrap is also commonly used in international transportation, as many countries have specific regulations about how to package products for importation and exportation.
Color Stretch Wrap Characteristics
Also known as corrosion-inhibiting stretch wrap, VCI stretch wrap protects metal components during storage and transportation by preventing oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when metal components come in contact with oxygen and moisture, resulting in rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage. By using VCI stretch wrap, you can create a barrier that blocks moisture and oxygen, effectively preventing oxidation from occurring. This type of wrap is typically used for machinery, metal components, and tools.
VCI Stretch Wrap Characteristics
UVI stretch wrap is a specialty wrap that includes light-discouraging additives to protect pallets from ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet rays can cause yellowing or discoloration of products or packaging over time, making UVI stretch wrap an excellent product for businesses that need to maintain the quality and appearance of their products. With this wrap, businesses can prevent unnecessary damage and ensure that their products arrive at their destination in pristine condition.
UVI Stretch Wrap Characteristics
Pre-stretched wrap is mechanically stretched close to its breaking point before being wound onto rolls. This process results in a lightweight wrap that offers consistent tension and good load stability. Because it does not require as much energy as other films to achieve the same wrapping force, this wrap reduces the strain on your employees during the wrapping process. Additionally, pre-stretch wrap uses nearly half as less film as other pallet wraps, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to reduce their packaging expenses.
Pre-Stretch Wrap Characteristics
Vented stretch wrap, also known as breathable stretch wrap or pallet netting, is a type of pallet wrap with a vented design. This facilitates proper air circulation, making it ideal for wrapping wood, landscaping products, hot and cold foods, and produce. By allowing air to circulate around the pallet, vented stretch wrap helps to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth, ensuring that the product arrives at its destination in the best possible condition.
Vented Stretch Wrap Characteristics
Gauge represents how thick a stretch wrap is. Stretch wraps can range from as low as 23 gauge to as high as 150 gauge. The higher the gauge, the more durable your stretch wrap will be. It's important to note that in most cases, the price of stretch wrap increases as the gauge increases. We've outlined some of the most common stretch wrap gauges below:
When it comes to pallet wrapping, having the right tools, machines, and accessories can make a big difference in the efficiency of your staff. When used correctly, these accessories can help you optimize the wrapping process. Some common pallet wrapping tools and accessories include the following:
There are three different types of stretch wrap cores: standard, one-sided extended, and two-sided extended. Continue reading to learn about both types and what sets them apart:
Educating yourself on the key terms associated with pallet wrap and pallet wrapping can help you make informed purchasing decisions and contribute to a successful warehouse environment. We've defined common pallet wrapping terms below:
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Pallet Stacking
Properly shipping goods to your customers comes with a lot of variables to keep in mind, like which corrugated box is best for orders, or how to ship your small business's goods at the best price. And when you're working in a distributing center, knowing how to stack a pallet to make sure the contents aren't damaged is the top shipping priority. Pallet stacking is more than getting the boxes perfectly packed. It's what keeps your employees safe from boxes toppling over, as well as optimizing freight costs so you make money from your endeavors. Below we have outlined how to stack a pallet, the best pallet stacking patterns, and how to stack mixed boxes on a pallet. Shop All Pallets How to Stack Boxes on a Pallet Listed below is the best way
Pallet Racking
If you operate a warehouse , you'll know that implementing a strong organization method is imperative for running a successful business. A pallet racking system is a great way to help with just that by organizing stock, carrying out orders succesfully, and maximizing space in your warehouse setup . Shop All Pallet Racks Use the following links to learn more about pallet racking: Types of Pallet Racking Installing Pallet Racking Pallet Racking FAQs What Is Pallet Racking? Pallet racking is a storage system method that organizes palletized materials. The racks are set up horizontally and on multiple levels to utilize vertical space in buildings such as warehouses. Additionally, they are organized in such a way that forklifts and other materia