Old-school shipping relied on straps, shrink wrap, and tape to hold pallets together—but nothing reshaped the packaging world like stretch film.
This flexible, high-tension material quietly became the standard for securing, protecting, and presenting pallet loads across every industry.
Stretch film is made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), a tough resin that gives the film both elasticity and memory. When applied correctly, it creates uniform containment around a load—protecting products, keeping them clean, and reducing damage in transit.
Why Stretch Film Works So Well
- Consistent Hold & Protection – Even tension around the pallet prevents shifting and shields against dust and moisture.
- Clear Visibility – High-clarity film lets teams identify products and scan barcodes without unwrapping.
- Cost Efficiency – Compared with shrink or strapping, stretch film delivers lower cost per load while improving presentation.
Hand Wrap vs. Machine Wrap
Hand Wrap Film
- Portable and inexpensive—ideal for small-volume operations.
- Relies on the operator’s technique, often resulting in inconsistent wraps and wasted film.
Machine Wrap Film
- Works with semi-automatic or programmable wrappers for even pre-stretch and film force.
- Delivers repeatable, professional results while reducing operator fatigue.
Nitech IPM wrappers allow users to program specific pre-stretch and wrap settings, giving total control over performance and film usage.
Choosing the Right Film
Film selection depends on load type, product weight, and environment.
Uniform, cube-shaped pallets can use lighter, clear films.
Irregular or sharp-edged loads need tougher, higher-gauge materials to prevent punctures.
Matching film properties to your wrapping system ensures reliable containment with minimal waste.
The Bottom Line
Stretch film may look simple, but it’s precision-engineered to save money and protect products.
Paired with a properly tuned Nitech IPM wrapper, it keeps loads secure, reduces film use, and improves throughput—every shift, every pallet.