Stretch wrap is one of the most functional tools that we use for both shipping & logistics purposes and general household duties. It’s common to see stretch wrap around our packages to keep goods close together. While this is an extremely useful tool, there’s a lot more to stretch wrap.
The purpose of stretch wrap is to form an efficient and clean seal in the safest way possible, so, it’s important for you to consider several essential factors before buying stretch wrap. To help you choose the best stretch wrap for your packaging and supply duties, The Packaging Company has compiled this complete guide to what you need to know about stretch wrap before purchasing it.
What Are The Different Types Of Stretch Wrap?
When we talk about stretch wrap, we sometimes use this as an umbrella term and fail to consider the different types of stretch wrap. There are two kinds of stretch wrap that you can buy that may be best suited to your specific needs:
Machine Stretch Film
Machine stretch film was designed to be used by a stretch wrap machine. As a result of using technology with this film, this is much easier and quicker to apply, so it’s the best option if you’re looking for optimum efficiency.
Under the machine stretch film bracket, there are different types of machine stretch film such as cast stretch film, brown stretch, pre-stretch and hay baling stretch film. These sub-types of machine stretch film differ based on the production method or the specific qualities of the film.
Non-Machine Stretch Film
As the name suggests, non-machine stretch film isn’t made to be used in partnership with technology and can only be used by humans. This is a good option for companies with very few goods to ship, as this is a more time-consuming product to use. There are also a few different types of non-machine stretch film such as color, UVI, VCI and reinforced stretch film.
Again, the names of these different types of stretch film depend on the production method or the specific qualities of the film, such as being best suited to wrapping metal or using ultraviolet light to limit photographic degeneration.
What Are The Different Types Of Stretch Wrap Gauges?
Similar to names, there are also a few different types of stretch wrap gauges that refer to the thickness of the stretch wrap. Here’s a quick guide:
- 25-30 GA: 25-30 GA is a pre-stretched film that can handle a load of up to 2400lbs.
- 35-39 GA: 35-39 GA is another example of pre-stretched wrap that can handle 4000lbs. Stiffer materials can handle up to 1,800 lbs due to their lack of flexibility.
- 37- 42 GA: 37- 42 GA is a high-performance film that can handle loads of up to 2000lbs.
- 47-55 GA: This is similar to 37- 42 GA but can handle a load of 2,500 lbs.
- 61-65 GA: 61-65 GA is a high-performance and high-strength wrap that can manage 3,000 lbs.
- 75 GA: The last high-performance option you can find is the 75GA which can handle up to a 4,000lb load.
- 120+ GA: 120+ GA is a general purpose wrap film that is best for loads up to 4,000lbs.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Stretch Wrap?
Stretch wrap is a very versatile shipping tool and has several benefits that users may experience if they choose to implement this in their supply chain strategies. Benefits include:
- It provides good product protection against dirt and grime
- Enhanced inventory control
- It’s recyclable
- It protects against damage during shipping due to stability
- It helps provide an easier handling and shipping process
- It protects against UV rays
Contact The Packaging Company Today If You Are Looking For High-Quality Stretch Wrap!
Are you looking for high-quality stretch wrap for your shipping and logistics strategy? Look no further than The Packaging Company. We offer our customers in Canada and the U.S. a huge range of high-quality stretch wrap alongside exemplary customer service. On our website, you’ll find stretch wrap as well as the equipment you’ll need such as stretch wrap dispensers. Contact us now to find out more information on our wide variety of packaging supplies!
