Pallet, or “turntable” stretch wrappers are an excellent way to package and ship products of all sizes safely. Many small and large business owners start with stretch film applied by hand to protect products in transit and grow into a pallet stretch wrapping machine. They can enjoy the benefits of pallet stretch wrapping and reduce film and labor costs.
What are Pallet Stretch Wrappers?
Hand film and machine film are both known as stretch film, also called stretch wrap. Hand-applied stretch wrap is a very effective way to secure and protect products by enveloping them in a stretch film or plastic wrap layer. Stretch wrap machines come in a wide array of options that cater to the needs of customers who wrap a few pallets per day, or hundreds of pallets per hour.
Manual stretch wrapping is designed for human application. It is a cost-effective solution for businesses that need efficient and effective packaging without the expense of automated machinery. Stretch wrapping has come to be an essential tool in the world of packaging and logistics. Pallet stretch wrappers help automate this process and reduce the amount of labor needed to wrap each pallet.
What is Used to Manually Stretch Wrap a Product?
To manually stretch wrap a product, plastic stretch film is used for wrapping; it is available in various thicknesses and widths. The primary material used for stretch film is linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) resin. LLDPE is derived from petroleum and natural gas, which is then converted into stretchable rolls by either a “cast” or “blown” process that converts it into a usable wrapping material. The manufacturing process imparts high impact strength, tensile strength, and puncture strength to the stretch wrap. Stretch wrap is engineered into many levels of “good,” “better,” and “best.” Almost always the higher performance grades of film reduce overall stretch wrapping costs.
What are the Benefits of Pallet Stretch Wrappers?
Cost-Effective: Manual stretch wrapping requires a minimal equipment expense, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes. If you can invest in a stretch wrapper you will reduce the labor and material costs to wrap each pallet of material.
Versatility: Stretch wrap can be used for a wide range of products, from uniform pallets to highly random loads across various industries.
Control: Pallet stretch wrapping offers complete control over the tension and application of the stretch film, ensuring the right amount is used for each product.
Reduced Labor Costs: Stretch wrapping is less labor-intensive compared to traditional manual wrapping methods.
Improved Product Protection: Stretch-wrapped products will have a tight, secure cocoon that protects them from dust, moisture, and sunlight, even reducing pilferage.
What Can Pallet Wrappers Protect?
Dust and Debris: Dust and debris accumulate on the stretch film and not on products.
Moisture: Stretch film is water-resistant, preventing moisture damage.
Stabilization: Items are stabilized, which reduces the risk of items shifting or falling during shipment.
Tampering and Pilferage: A layer of stretch film makes it obvious if unauthorized personnel access or tamper with the contents of the pallet load.
UV Protection: Some stretch films can be formulated to protect against UV radiation, which is crucial for outdoor storage. Ask your stretch film supplier about this.
How Can I Buy Pallet Stretch Wrappers for My Business?
If you’re considering purchasing pallet stretch wrappers for your business, follow the steps below to guide what will best suit your business pack-n-ship process.
Identify Your Needs: Determine the size and weight of the pallets or loads that need to be wrapped.
Training: If your employees are unfamiliar with pallet stretch wrappers, inquire if the supplier offers training or resources to help your team operate the equipment efficiently and safely.
Maintenance and Support: Ask about maintenance requirements and the availability of customer support or technical assistance.
Place Your Order: Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information, make an informed decision and place your order from a reputable supplier.
Pallet stretch wrappers are an excellent investment for businesses looking to streamline their packaging processes, protect their products, and reduce operational costs. Stretch wrap is an easy, less expensive, and recyclable alternative to other load securement methods.
Contact Fastpak today to get started on the manual stretch wrapping process for your business.