9 Things You Should Know About Pallet Wrapping

Pallet wrap is often mistaken for shrink film. Both pallet wrap and shrink film are slightly different. Pallet wrap has the qualities of a rubber band, unlike shrink wrap. It can stretch out and come back to its original form. Thus, making it unique as compared to plastic wrapping.

Still confused?

Let us tell you all you need to know about pallet wrapping.

1. Pallet Wrap Is Measured In Microns

In addition to being measured in meters, pallet wrap is measured in microns. And the micron measurement showcases the thickness of the wrap.

Pro Tip: A micron measures thousandth of a millimeter.

The thickness range goes from 12-30mu, and you can pick the thickness according to the application you will use it for.

For instance, you will have to use a thicker film for irregular or heavy loads, or even loads that can easily be scratched or punctured in transport.

2. Cast And Blown Pallet Wrap

Pallet wrap is manufactured in two ways, i.e., it's either blown or cast. Both methods have their own benefits.

The blown film is made by first creating a thick layer of resin. Then the air is blown within it to create a bubble. The measurement of the bubble and the original film will show the thickness of the film. The bubble allows the material to cool down steadily and then is collected by rollers. Then the bubble collapses, and the film wounds up in a roll.

On the other hand, in the cast, film resins are pressed by chilled rollers to be completely flat. You can control the process to get the desired thickness if you want varying thickness. Usually, stretch film is made using this method.

3. Hand Wrap VS. Machine Wrap

Wondering whether to buy hand wrap or machine wrap pallet wrap?

Well, there is no difference between them. Actually, you are purchasing varying roll weights. One can easily be used by hand, and the other needs to be handled with the help of a wrapping machine.

Pro Tip: If you are using hand wrap, then use end caps, dispensers, or handles to decrease the strain on your hands.

4. Using The Correct Amount Of Pallet Wrap

Some companies use a lot of pallet wrap in a year. And most of it is usually going to waste. Inefficient use can cost you thousands of dollars.

Overwrapping, incorrect tension, and under wrapping can result in damage or wastage that you can easily prevent. If you are unable to do it yourself, let Matco handle it.

5. Using The Right Color Pallet Wrap

If you have color-coded pallet wraps, it will become much easier to identify pallets in the warehouse. Thus, decreasing errors and confusion. For added security, pick black pallet wrap to hide all the valuable items.

6. Keep Your Pallets Dry

To protect your pallets, use pallet tops. They are perfect for adding an extra level of protection and security. It will be more helpful if you pick black pallet tops.

7. Pallet Labeling

It's always good to let your freight companies, warehouse team, and the recipient know about all the fragile items. Handling information is always more straightforward if you have the correct labels and document storage.

Doculopes are suitable for transit, shipping, and customs information. You can keep the invoice or even the shipping documentation dry with extra-large doculopes on the pallets.

On the other hand, Rippa labels are suitable for letting people handling the pallets be aware of any warnings as soon as possible.

8. Corner Protection

It's ideal for the corners of the pallets to bear the stress of transport. Even if the thickness of the pallet wrap can?t help decrease punctures and scratches, a better option is to use pallet corner boards.

Corner boards reinforce loads if you are collecting pallets 2 or 3 high. Because, they enhance pallet stability and protect all the corners from damage.

9. When To Use Net Pallet Wrap

A net wrap is an ideal form of pallet wrap when wrapping produce or things that need to breathe. It helps with the maximum containment of unsteady loads. It's strong but also lets your produce breathe. This means that the produce won't go wrong in transit and can be safely loaded and unloaded.

In addition to this, it decreases the amount of packing weight compared to that of wooden crates or boxes. This can lead to reduced freight costs and transport.

Final Word!

So as you can see, the importance of pallet wraps can't be ignored. We hope our facts have informed you all you need to know about pallet wraps. And now you know exactly how to use them and when to use them.

For ideal usage, pick the right kind of pallet wrap.