Effective pallet wrapping can help prevent damage, minimize the risk of accidents, and ensure pallet load stability.
There are different types of pallet wrapping. Read on to learn more about the different methods for effective pallet wrapping.
What is pallet wrapping?
Pallet wrapping is a packaging technique that utilizes a flexible plastic sheet to cover products. It is also commonly called stretch wrapping. This method is highly effective in safeguarding and fastening items while being stored or transported.
A thin layer of plastic called stretch film is used to wrap the pallets. The film can stretch up to 300% of its original length. As a result, it can easily adjust to the contours of the products and pallets, making it a versatile solution.
Now, let's look at the different types of pallet wrapping.
What are the types of pallet wrapping?
Stretch wrapping
Stretch wrapping, better known as stretch film, is a common method used to secure and protect items during transit or storage. A roll of stretch film, a thin plastic material, is wrapped around the product or products on a pallet.
The film is then stretched, causing it to conform to the shape of the items and creating a tight seal around them.
There are two types of stretch wrap techniques – machine stretch and hand stretch.
Machine Stretch
A stretch wrap machine uses machine stretch films. There are two ways of doing this:
1. Semi-automatic wrapping: These machines need manual input. The film must be attached to the pallet or cut after wrapping. The machine automatically wraps stretch film around the pallet once it is in position to secure and safeguard the products.
Medium-sized pallets can be wrapped using semi-automatic equipment.
2. Automatic wrapping: These are fully automated pallet wrapping machines. They don't need operator input once the pallet is positioned. These devices can automatically wrap the stretch film around the pallet, complete with film attachment and cutting.
Large pallets can be wrapped using automatic wrapping machines.
3. Pre-stretched wrapping: In this type of wrapping, the film is stretched before it is applied to the pallet. The stretching process reduces the amount of film required and increases its holding force.
If you are looking for a pallet wrapping technique that is efficient and cost-effective at the same time, then this is the perfect choice. It requires less film than standard wrapping and provides better load stability.
4. Blown stretch wrap: Blown stretch wrap is created by blowing air into the raw material to make a thicker and more tear-resistant film. It is appropriate for packaging objects that need special protection during shipping, such as heavy objects or objects with odd shapes.
It is also resistant to tears and punctures, making it perfect for roughly handled products.
5. Cast stretch wrap: Cast stretch wrap is created by rolling up a thin film. It is excellent for wrapping objects with labels or other markings as it has a flat surface.
It is also less expensive than a blown stretch wrap. Cast stretch wrap comes in a range of hues and weights.
6. Robot wrapping: In robotic pallet wrapping, stretch film is wrapped around the pallet using a robotic arm.
Large or complex pallet loads can use this form of highly automated pallet wrapping.
Hand stretch
In hand stretch wrapping, the film is designed specifically for wrapping by hand using human labor only.
It is also known as hand wrap, hand stretch wrap, and hand film.
It includes the following:
1. UV stretch wrap: UV stretch wrap can be used for products stored or transported in direct sunlight. Because of the UV inhibitor included, sunlight won't cause the film to degrade or become brittle.
2. Color stretch film: Stretch film in color is ideal for international shipping, warehouse color coding, and inventory dating. Color stretch wrap is made to be resistant to tearing.
3. VCI Stretch film: Stretch film called VCI, or vapor corrosion inhibitor, is specifically designed to cover metal components to prevent rusting. Tools, metal pipes, and other metal goods or materials are frequently packaged using this formulation, which inhibits the oxidation of metals.
4. Reinforced stretch film: These thick films packages and protect heavy cargo for shipment and transportation. For instance, bricks and cinder blocks are frequently palletized and unitized using this film.
5. Vented stretch film: Vented stretch film is usually used in applications where packed goods need access to oxygen and airflow. These include covering hot bakery items, pallets of timber, etc.
Wrapping pallets, the right way benefits your business in the long term. It leads to fewer wasted products and a more efficient supply chain. By using the right techniques and tools, you can minimize the risk of damage during transport and storage, ensuring the safety and quality of your goods.
With these measures in place, you can feel confident in the efficiency of your supply chain.