Choosing the right stretch wrap is important for keeping palletised goods stable, protected, and cost-effective during storage and transport. The right film can help reduce product damage, improve load security, and lower packaging waste.
For warehouses, distributors, manufacturers, and transport operators, stretch wrap is one of the most commonly used packaging materials. However, not all stretch wrap is the same. Film thickness, stretch performance, clarity, puncture resistance, and load type can all affect the final result.
This guide explains how to choose the right stretch wrap for your palletised goods.
1. Understand Your Load Type
Before choosing stretch wrap, the first step is to understand what kind of goods you are wrapping.
Light and regular-shaped loads usually require less film because the pallet is easier to secure. Examples include cartons of lightweight retail products, packaged goods, or evenly stacked boxes.
Medium-duty loads may need stronger film with better stretch and holding force. These are common in general warehousing, food distribution, and local transport.
Heavy, sharp-edged, or irregular loads require stronger stretch wrap with higher puncture resistance. If the load has sharp carton corners, uneven stacking, or heavy products, a thicker film can help prevent tearing during wrapping and transport.
2. Choose the Right Film Thickness
Stretch wrap thickness is usually measured in microns. A higher micron film is generally stronger, while a lower micron film is lighter and more cost-effective for suitable applications.
For light-duty pallet wrapping, 15 micron film can be a practical option when the load is stable and does not require heavy holding force.
For general warehouse and transport use, 20 micron stretch wrap is one of the most common choices. It offers a good balance between strength, clarity, stretch, and value.
For heavier loads or more demanding applications, 25 micron stretch wrap provides stronger puncture resistance and better load stability. It is suitable for heavier pallets, longer transport routes, or loads that require extra holding force.
As a simple guide:
15 micron stretch wrap is suitable for light and stable loads.
20 micron stretch wrap is suitable for general pallet wrapping and everyday warehouse use.
25 micron stretch wrap is suitable for heavy-duty loads, sharper edges, and stronger load retention.
3. Consider Load Stability and Holding Force
The main purpose of stretch wrap is not only to cover the pallet, but also to hold the goods firmly together.
A good stretch wrap should provide strong load retention, meaning it keeps the pallet stable after wrapping. This is especially important during forklift handling, truck transport, storage, and warehouse movement.
If the film is too thin or does not have enough holding force, the pallet may shift during transport. This can increase the risk of damaged goods, collapsed pallets, or unsafe handling.
For unstable loads, it is usually better to choose a stronger film and apply enough wraps around the base of the pallet. Wrapping the bottom section properly helps secure the goods to the pallet and reduces movement.
4. Choose Clear or Black Stretch Wrap
Clear stretch wrap is the most common option for general pallet wrapping. It allows staff, warehouse teams, and transport operators to see the goods, labels, and cartons clearly. This makes it easier to identify products and scan labels.
Black stretch wrap is suitable when privacy or product protection is needed. It helps hide the contents of the pallet and can be useful for high-value goods, sensitive shipments, or products stored in visible areas.
If your priority is easy identification, clear stretch wrap is usually the better choice. If privacy and security are more important, black stretch wrap may be more suitable.
5. Check Roll Size and Compatibility
Stretch wrap is available in different widths, lengths, and core sizes. For hand wrapping, 500mm wide rolls are commonly used because they are easy to handle and suitable for most pallet sizes.
Roll length also affects efficiency. Longer rolls can reduce changeover time, especially in busy warehouse environments.
If you are using hand wrapping, make sure the roll is comfortable for staff to use. If you are using a machine or dispenser, check that the roll size and core size are compatible with your equipment.
At Linkmark Packaging, our pallet wrap options are designed for practical warehouse and transport use, with reliable performance and easy handling.
6. Balance Cost and Performance
The cheapest stretch wrap is not always the most cost-effective option. If the film tears easily, requires more layers, or fails to hold the load properly, it may increase waste and damage costs.
A better approach is to choose the lowest suitable thickness that still secures the pallet safely. This helps reduce unnecessary film usage while maintaining load stability.
For example, a stable light-duty pallet may not need heavy-duty 25 micron film. On the other hand, using very thin film on a heavy pallet may result in more tearing and more rewrapping.
The right stretch wrap should save material, reduce damage, and improve wrapping efficiency.
7. Match the Film to Your Application
Different industries may require different stretch wrap performance.
For general warehousing, clear 20 micron stretch wrap is often a practical everyday choice.
For heavier goods, industrial products, or long-distance transport, 25 micron heavy-duty stretch wrap may be more suitable.
For lightweight cartons or short-distance movement, a thinner film may be enough.
For privacy, security, or high-value shipments, black stretch wrap can help protect the contents from being easily seen.
Choosing the right film depends on the load weight, pallet shape, transport distance, handling process, and storage environment.
Final Thoughts
The right stretch wrap can improve pallet stability, reduce product damage, and support more efficient warehouse operations.
When choosing stretch wrap, consider the load type, film thickness, holding force, colour, roll size, and overall performance. A suitable film should provide enough strength without unnecessary waste.
If you are unsure which stretch wrap is best for your application, Linkmark Packaging can help you choose the right option for your warehouse, transport, or storage needs.
Explore our range of stretch wrap products or contact our team for bulk order pricing and product recommendations.