Typically made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) it is highly stretchable, which means it conforms tightly to the shape of your palletised load, ensuring that it is stable in transit and storage.

Pallet wrap plays a vital role in the transportation and storage of palletised goods but, many companies are keen to reduce their use of the material, for both environmental and cost reasons. 

If you are using pallet wrap, there are lots of opportunities to use less of it, in this blog we’ll show you 5 ways to reduce your stretch wrap use. We will cover:

What is pallet stretch wrap used for?

Stretch wrap is an essential component for palletising goods. The key advantage of pallet wrap is that it prevents your products from shifting, tipping, or falling during transit. It helps to maintain the integrity of the load and reduces the risk of damage or loss.

It also provides a protective barrier around palletised goods, shielding them from dust, dirt, moisture, and other environmental factors that could potentially damage or contaminate products.

Stretch wrap enhances packaging efficiency as it creates a single, cohesive unit or load, making it easier to handle, transport, and store. This process, known as unitisation, improves efficiency and reduces the risk of lost or misplaced items.

How is stretch wrap applied?

Stretch wrap can be applied by either hand or machine, the application type really does depend on what quantity of pallets you are wrapping each day.

Hand application – this is when stretch film is manually applied by hand, which can be done with or without a hand dispenser. All hand-applied stretch films are supplied on standard cores for use with hand-applied applicators or extended cores. 

If you are applying stretch film by hand, it’s important to consider any health and safety risks associated with hand film application, like the weight of the film and the impact of stretching and pulling on the operator.

Machine application – this is when stretch film is applied to a pallet or product using a pallet wrapper, a machine that automatically winds film round a products on a pallet.

A pallet wrapper is recommended if you are wrapping more than 15 pallets per day. 

Machine applied stretch films are extremely strong and versatile, which saves time, resources and packaging materials for high performance applications requiring higher tensile strengths. These films have excellent puncture resistance, good cling, slip and load retention.

What is the environmental impact of pallet wrap?

Pallet wrap is made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).  As with the production of many plastics, it consumes resources such as fossil fuels and water and has a high CO2 impact in the manufacturing process.

Excessive application of film, or overuse, can be wasteful which also has a negative impact on the environment.  To ensure load stability, operators can apply too much film by either doing too many wraps or, not applying the correct level of stretch or tension to the film. This could be down to inadequate training or inexperience.

Over application of stretch wrap can also happen with machine applied films too.  it’s important to check that the machine settings are correct for the type of stretch wrap you are using.

By using less wrap, fewer resources are consumed, helping to conserve natural resources and reduce the carbon footprint associated with the manufacturing process and material waste.

How can you use less pallet wrap?

We’ve come up with 5 ways to help you use less stretch wrap:

1. Select the best film for your business

When selecting the right pallet wrap for your business, there are two main areas of consideration:

Stretch wrap performance – Selecting a stretch film that provides the right yield strength and performance for the loads being wrapped is crucial. The yield strength denotes the amount of stress a stretch film can withstand without permanently having plastic deformation. Prior to reaching the yield point, a stretch film will elastically deform but will return to its original shape once the stress is removed

The make-up of the products being wrapped – Consider the products being wrapped and look at your weight load (typically per pallet), load profile type, and the transit process the load will experience.

Load profiles can be summarised by three key types:

2. Change the micron of your stretch wrap

If you can reduce the micron of your stretch wrap to a thinner material, you should be able to reduce your overall use of stretch wrap – reducing your impact on the environment as well as material cost.

Advances in technology of stretch wrap manufacturing has given us a new breed of “High performance” stretch film, it  has a much lower material thickness (micron) than traditional heavier film but provides the same, or higher, levels of performance.

High performance pallet wrap provides businesses with an opportunity to wrap more pallets with less film, whilst maintaining high levels of load containment. This can provide businesses with a reduction in material cost and wrapping times, as well as reducing material use and waste.

3. Switch to a recycled content stretch wrap

As explained earlier, stretch wrap does require the use of fossil fuels, which means that the manufacturing process has a high co2 impact.

By switching to a recycled content stretch film, you are not only reducing the use of fossil fuels, but also ensuring that waste material is recycled for reuse, driving a “circle of life” for plastic materials.

Whilst 100% recycled content film is not yet available, both hand and machine applied pallet wrap is available in a minimum of 30% recycled content. 

If you are currently using a virgin film, a switch to recycled content will also reduce your material cost, as a Plastic Packaging Tax of £ 217.85 per tonne is applied to any plastic packaging which does not contain a minimum of 30% recycled content.

4. Use a pre-stretch hand applicator

If you are applying film by hand, consider the type of stretch wrap applicator that you are using as well as safety precautions when using pallet wrap.

A basic hand stretch dispenser simply holds the roll in place whilst the operator walks around the pallet to apply the film.  Film application is reliant on the operator applying a consistent level of tension by pulling the applicator as the film is applied.  Not only can this lead to operator injury, it can also mean that the pallet wrap isn’t stretched to capacity.  This leads to overuse of film, and a higher cost to wrap each pallet.

Consider investing in an applicator with pre-stretch gears, like Wrapplicator, which applies pallet wrap with a consistent 30% stretch. It’s ergonomic design ensures that the stretch wrap can be applied single handedly, without bending or pulling, reducing the risk of operator injury.

Whilst a dispenser like Wrapplicator costs more than a standard dispenser, it will pay for itself quickly by maximising material use and removing incidences of over stretching or snapping film which can slow down the time taken to wrap each pallet – reducing material and labour cost.  It’s ease of use also means that no matter which operator wraps the pallet, you’ll always get the same result.

5. Automate the process

If you are wrapping 15 or more pallets per day, it’s time to invest in a pallet wrapping machine.

An stretch wrap machine optimises film use through advanced technology and precise film application. They calculate the exact amount of film required based on the pallet dimensions, resulting in reduced film use. Many systems have film pre-stretching capabilities, stretching the film prior to application, further reducing the amount of stretch wrap film needed, along with the cost to wrap each pallet.

A stretch wrap machine can typically pay for itself through material savings, within a few months, depending on the amount of pallets being wrapped.

A benefit of introducing a pallet wrap machine is that it can handle a high volume of pallets in a shorter period, reducing the time required for manual labour and enabling workers to focus on other value-added tasks. Once a pallet is placed onto a pallet wrapper turntable, the operator is able to prepare the next pallet ready for wrapping.

How Macfarlane Packaging can help to reduce your stretch wrap use

With a wide range of recycled content stretch wrap, for both hand and machine application, and pallet wrapping machines, Macfarlane Packaging can help you to identify the right film and automation system.

Our specialist load containment team are on hand to conduct a free of charge stretch wrap review, identifying ways for you to improve your pallet wrapping and reduce material use and cost.  Often, a stretch wrap review can reduce film use by 50%.

We’ve a new range of machine stretch films, starting at 10 micron and containing 30% recycled content available with up to 300% stretch, including black pallet wrap.   Our new hand stretch dispenser, the Wrapplicator, will also reduce your cost to hand wrap each pallet.

Contact us today to find out more.

The post 5 ways to reduce the cost and environmental impact of your stretch wrap appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Choosing the right pallet wrapper can streamline operations, protect your products, and ultimately save you time and money. But how do you decide which pallet wrapper is the best fit for your business?

In this article, we’ll give you an overview of what a pallet wrapper is, the types of wrapper available and tips to help you choose the best pallet wrapper for your needs. We’ll also discuss how pairing the right stretch film with your chosen equipment is critical.

Understanding pallet wrappers

What is a pallet wrapper?

Pallet wrappers are machines that are designed to apply stretch film to a pallet of goods. Most pallet wrappers work by winding film around the pallet, binding items together, providing load stability. This helps secure the goods for safe storage and transport. These efficient devices are also known as pallet wrapping machines or stretch wrappers.

Stretch wrapping machines come in various configurations, from manual and semi-automatic models suitable for smaller operations to fully automated systems capable of handling high-volume production environments. Understanding your specific needs and requirements is key when choosing the best pallet wrapper for your business!  

Types of Pallet Wrappers

There are various types of pallet wrappers available on the market. From manual handheld dispensers, through to more complex machinery. Let’s take a look at them:

Manual pallet wrappers and dispensers

Ideal for smaller businesses with moderate wrapping needs, these dispensers require operators to guide stretch film around a pallet by hand. A great example is our ergonomic Wrapplicator. Its design means operators need to bend less and can just use one hand to apply the film. Manual floor standing pallet wrappers are available too. While manual stretch wrappers are a cost-effective option, they may not be the most effective choice for businesses wrapping more than 15 pallets per day.

Semi-automatic pallet wrappers

These machines automate part of the wrapping process, typically while rotating the pallet on a turntable while applying the film. An operator is responsible for moving the load on and off the turntable or to the wrapping area – hence the machines are classed as semi-automatic. A good example is the popular Lantech QL400 turntable pallet wrapper.

Fully automatic pallet wrappers

Designed for high volume environments, these powerful machines can wrap multiple pallets quickly and efficiently, with minimal operator intervention. Fully automated stretch wrapping machines can often be integrated into packing lines, and form part of a pallet’s movement through the warehouse.

Within these broad categories of pallet wrapping equipment, there are lots of key features and model types to consider too.

• Vertical wrapping, turntable machines – these stretch wrappers apply film vertically, going up and down the pallet. They often feature turntables that rotate the pallet for easy film application or work as a rotating arm stretch wrapper (see below).
• Horizontal wrapping machines – for long profile items, horizontal stretch wrapping machines are also available. Rather than a turntable, these have a conveyor that feeds a product through a tunnel or ring to be wrapped.
• Rotating arm pallet wrappers – good for heavy products or more complex load profiles, these machines feature an arm that rotates around the pallet to apply the film.
• Robot pallet wrappers – rather than a static machine, robot pallet wrappers are portable and move around the contours of a pallet to apply the film. They’re a good choice for heavy or irregular loads, as well as environments where you have multiple wrapping stations, as they can be moved with ease.
• Core break or power pre-stretch machines – most semi and fully automated pallet wrappers will either operate as a core brake machine or a power pre-stretch machine. The main difference between core break and pre-stretch machines is the type of film they use. Pre-stretch machines need to be operated with pre-stretched film. Core break machines work with standard stretch wrap.

Tips for choosing the best pallet wrapper for your business

So, now you know about the different types of stretch wrappers available, but what is the best pallet wrapper for your business?

Every business will have different needs and challenges, combined with the choice out there, it can be hard to decide which type and model of machine is right for you!

1. How many pallets you wrap per day – if you’re wrapping less than 15 pallets each day, a manual stretch wrap dispenser or free-standing manual wrapping machine may be a good choice. If you’re wrapping 15 or more, we recommend looking at semi or fully automatic pallet wrappers.
2. Load profile and stability of load before wrapping – how is your load shaped? Is it very heavy? Can it be moved or does it need to remain static before wrapping? For more complex load profiles or pallets that can’t be moved, robot pallet wrappers, rotating arm machines or even horizontal stretch machines might be right for you.
3. Load stability – once wrapped, does the machine you’re considering provide secure and consistent load stability during shipping and transit?
4. Cost to wrap pallet – the type of machine and film you use can influence how much it costs you to wrap a pallet. With all costs factored in, does the machine you’re looking at provide a lower cost per pallet?
5. Plastic waste and material use  – if you want to wrap more pallets with less film, investing in a good pre-stretch pallet wrapper can be key. They often work well with thin, high-performance films. Performance films can help reduce the weight of the material you use and the waste you create.
6. Packing space and warehouse movement – how much space to do you have for wrapping pallets? Do you pack in one area or more? The footprint available in your site will influence which pallet wrapper you can choose. For example, robotic wrappers may offer more flexibility if you often need to move within your warehouse.
7. Budget – ultimately, you need to factor in which machine will deliver a return on investment for you. The initial costs can be daunting, but they often payback quickly and for many pallet wrappers there are finance options available to spread the cost.

Why the right stretch film is important

In addition to selecting the appropriate pallet wrapper, choosing the right stretch film is equally important. If you choose the wrong film, it can lead to poor load stability and product damage. Not ideal!

Things to consider when choosing the right film include film performance, pre-stretch capability and compatibility with the machinery you’re choosing. It’s worth noting that film thickness can sometimes be misleading. Many high-performance films are quite thin but provide the performance of a traditionally thicker film!

By investing in high-quality stretch film that complements your pallet wrapper, you can enhance load security, minimise product damage, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best pallet wrapper for your business involves careful consideration of your specific requirements, budget constraints, and long-term goals.

Ultimately, whether you choose manual, semi-automated or fully automated machinery, selecting the right pallet wrapper and stretch film is essential for maintaining the integrity of your shipments. Assess your options carefully and invest in a solution that meets your needs both now and in the future.

If you need help evaluating your wrapping needs or want a recommendation of the best pallet wrapping machine for your business, check out our stretch wrap review service. Alternatively, contact us to speak to one of our experts.

The post What is the best pallet wrapper for your business? appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

In the world of logistics and supply chain management, efficiency is the name of the game. But pallet wrap might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you are thinking about how to optimise your operation. Enter high performance stretch film…

The right stretch film can often be the key to unlocking improvements. However, the challenge lies in finding the delicate balance between reducing the micron of your pallet wrap and maintaining adequate load containment. In this blog, we will explore high performance stretch wrap including what it is, its advantages and how it can transform your packaging processes.

What is high performance stretch film?

High performance stretch film is an innovative category of pallet wrap that has a much lower micron (thickness) than traditional film but provides a high level of performance.

Traditionally, thicker stretch films were considered essential to provide sufficient strength and stability for wrapping pallets. However, advances in technology have paved the way for thinner, reduced micron performance films.

Made using a multilayered resin process, high performance stretch films offer better clarity, cling, puncture, and tear resistance than conventional films.

High performance pallet wrap enables businesses to wrap more pallets with less film without sacrificing effective load containment. The micron reduction has lots of other benefits too and can be a game-changer for many businesses…

The cost-saving advantages of using high performance stretch film

One of the primary advantages of reducing micron in stretch wrap is the potential for significant cost savings.

Thinner films, when applied to pallets in the right way, can reduce the overall amount of material required to wrap a pallet. In turn, this helps cut the amount of money you spend on purchasing stretch films.

A stretch wrap review can help reveal these cost-savings. The process involves reviewing the pallet wrap application process and how much it costs to wrap a pallet. Often, a review can deliver up to a 50% reduction in material costs per pallet.  Depending on how many pallets shipping per day, this can add up to significant savings over time…

With the right application process, it can also reduce the number of wraps around the pallet. This speeds up the wrapping process and reducing the time taken to pack each pallet. So, it can open the opportunity to reduce labour costs associated with pallet wrapping as well.  

The impact of performance stretch film on your sustainability goals 

Using a high-performance stretch film with a lower micron can positively impact your sustainability goals. Compared to a conventional film, using a high-performance pallet wrap can remove tonnes of plastic from a supply chain.

The lower micron reduces material consumption and can contribute to a decrease in overall packaging waste. Plus, as the film is thinner and lighter, the overall weight of a palletised load will be less. This can help cut emissions during transport. A win for businesses’ sustainability goals and for the planet.

How high-performance pallet wrap supports effective load containment

Whilst cost savings and sustainability are compelling reasons to explore using a high-performance film, ensuring that load containment is not compromised is critical. After all, the primary purpose of stretch wrap is to secure and protect palletised loads during transportation and storage.

Striking the right balance between micron reduction and load containment is imperative in reducing product damage, maintaining pallet integrity in the supply chain, and reducing incidents of health and safety breaches.

This is why pairing the right high-performance film with the right application method is important. The type of pallet wrapping machine used to apply material plays a pivotal role in achieving the delicate balance required for effective micron reduction. You must match the right stretch wrap material to your machine, ensuring the percentage of stretch applied for each wrap is correct.  This controls the amount of “give” in your pallet, ensuring that it neither stretches too much (allowing the contents to move) or snaps if there is a sudden jolt in transit (causing the contents to scatter).

The importance of employee training and awareness of stretch wrap application

The success of any packaging strategy, including using high performance pallet wrap relies on the knowledge and awareness of the employees involved in the process.

Staff wrapping pallets should be trained to understand the nuances of working with thinner films and the machinery used to apply them. Providing clear instructions in the pallet wrapping area can provide a good reminder of correct processes. Plus, building in guidelines to induction training and prove an easy way to upskill future employees.

Summary

Using a high-performance stretch film with a lower micron revolutionise your packing efficiency, reduce costs, lower material use and support your sustainability goals. It is essential that load containment is considered throughout the process and that proper application techniques and employee training are used to make the most of this innovation.

Before using any sort of high-performance pallet wrap, it’s worth carrying out a stretch wrap review. At Macfarlane Packaging, we have load containment experts who can help with this, so why not get in touch?

The post The Micron Reduction Revolution: A Guide to High Performance Stretch Film appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Polythene and shrink film have become indispensable materials for packaging companies in both retail and industrial sectors. Understanding these materials is crucial for businesses seeking cost-effective, and robust packaging solutions.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of polythene packaging and shrink film, exploring their uses, benefits, and what makes shrink film a valuable choice.

What is polythene?

Polythene plastic is the most widely used plastic in the world. It is part of the polyolefin family of plastic resins. It is made primarily from ethylene, a type of hydrocarbon. It comes in various forms, including low-density polythene (LDPE), high-density polythene (HDPE), and low-density polythene (LLDPE), each offering unique characteristics suitable for different applications.

You’ll find low density polyethylene (LDPE) is commonly found in many packaging products, such as carrier bags and stretch film, as well as bubble wrap.

What is shrink film?

Shrink film / wrap is a type of plastic packaging material that shrinks when heat is applied. You’ll find that shrink wrap can be made from polythene, as well as other plastics such as polyolefin. It’s commonly used for packaging, presentation, and tamper resistance in both retail and industrial settings.

Types of polythene packaging products

Polythene is a versatile packaging product used throughout the packing process. To give you an idea of the range of products available, we have listed some of the most popular polythene packaging commonly used in retail and industrial sectors:

• Layflat Polythene Tubing – An amazingly simple, yet highly effective, budget packing solution with broad flexibility, for protecting long length items such as piping, tubing and wooden mouldings.
• Pallet Top Sheets – These sheets designed to protect stretch-wrapped pallets from wet weather and dust during transit and in storage. A warehouse essential, these tough-wearing sheets are supplied on a perforated roll for easy separation and handling.
• Polythene LDPE Centrefold Shrinkable Film – LDPE shrink wrap films keep products and pallets dust, dirt and water free during transit and in storage.
• Polyolefin Shrink Wrap Films – Polyolefin shrink film is not as corrosive as PVC shrink film and has a higher yield and clarity. It is also stronger, more flexible and can withstand lower storage temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, we have listed some popular questions about polythene packaging and shrink wrap, but if you have any more queries that are not listed, our team of experts will be happy to help you.

Can polythene packaging and plastic packaging be recycled?

Many people are confused about what types of materials can be recycled. While some items, such as paper and glass, can be easily recycled, others, such as polyethylene, are more difficult to recycle.

So, is polyethylene recyclable? The answer is yes and no. While pure polyethylene can be recycled, most polyethylene products are made with a mix of materials that make them difficult to recycle. However, there are some companies that are working on ways to recycle mixed materials.

Many materials made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), such as carrier bags, can be recycled at supermarkets but rarely at kerbside. It is always worth checking packaging to see if it carries an On-Pack Recycling Label or visiting Recycle Now to see where you can recycle it.

Are shrink wrap and stretch wrap the same?

Stretch wrap and shrink wrap are both commonly used packaging materials, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Here are the key differences between stretch wrap and shrink wrap:

• Stretch wrap is primarily used to secure and stabilize loads on pallets during transportation and storage. It is manually or machine-applied, and the stretching process allows it to tightly hold items in place. It provides load stability and protection against dust and moisture but does not change its shape or size.
• Shrink wrap is used to encase and bundle products or items for various purposes, such as packaging, tamper resistance, and product presentation. When heat is applied, shrink film contracts tightly around the items, conforming to their shape.

The choice between them depends on the specific packaging needs of a given product or situation!

What are the different types of polyethene packaging?

At Macfarlane, we can offer you an extensive range of polyethene packaging materials. This includes:

• Layflat Polythene Tubing
• Pallet Top Sheets
• Centrefold Polythene Sheets
• Polythene LDPE Centrefold Shrinkable Film
• Shrink Wrap Pallet Covers
• VCI Polythene (Anti-Corrosion Polythene Packaging)
• Shrink Wrap and Shrink Film

We can also offer packaging machinery and accessories associated with polythene, such as heat sealers and guns, shrink machines, and dispensers.

Macfarlane Packaging can also provide stretch film. Click here to learn more.

Are there automated polythene packaging solutions?

Yes, when you’re ready to level up, Macfarlane Packaging can supply you with any sort of packaging automation solution you need. This includes packing machinery like heat tunnels and shrink tunnels.

A wide range of semi and fully automated pack solutions are available to speed up your packing operation regarding polythene. For example, heat shrink tunnel systems can reduce material waste and maximise packaging yield.

The Macfarlane team can also help with polythene banding machines, which are perfect for bundling products together.

The post A guide to polythene and shrink film appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Automated pallet wrappers streamline the pallet wrapping process and can revolutionise warehouse operations within any business.

In this article we will explore the signs that indicate how your business could benefit from installing an automated pallet wrapper system, highlighting the advantages it brings in terms of time savings, cost reduction, improved load stability, and enhanced worker safety.

When is an automated pallet wrapper right for your business?

If you are wrapping 15 or more pallets per day, your operation could benefit from installing an automated pallet wrapping system.

Another clear sign t is when the volume of pallets wrapped per day exceeds the capacity of manual labour.  As businesses grow and handle larger quantities of products, manually wrapping each pallet becomes time-consuming and labour-intensive.

By introducing an automated system, you could significantly increase pallet wrapping efficiency as machines can handle a high volume of pallets in a shorter period, reducing the time required for manual labour and enabling workers to focus on other value-added tasks.

Once a pallet is placed onto a pallet wrapper turntable, the operator is able to prepare the next pallet ready for wrapping.

How does an automated pallet wrapper improve load containment?

An automated pallet wrapper can improve your load containment and reduce the incidents of pallets collapsing in transit or storage.

When film in manually applied to a pallet, there is always a risk that load containment can be inconsistent.

Human error, fatigue, and variations in technique can result in inadequate load containment, leading to product damage, instability, and potential safety hazards during transit.

An automated pallet wrapper ensures consistent wrapping tension, film overlap, and coverage, guaranteeing uniform load containment for each pallet.

This consistency minimises the risk of load shifting, topples, and damages, ensuring product protection and reducing the potential for additional operational costs.

What is the impact of a pallet wrapper on improving operation throughout

In fast-paced industries with high throughput requirements, an automated pallet wrapper system can significantly enhance productivity.

An automated pallet wrapper provides rapid and continuous pallet wrapping, eliminating bottlenecks in the packing and shipping process.

By reducing pallet wrapping cycle times, businesses can increase their overall throughput, improve order fulfilment rates, and meet tight delivery schedules.

The consistent and efficient wrapping provided by an automated pallet wrapper also facilitates smoother material handling, speeding up the loading and unloading vehicles.

Can an automated pallet wrapper reduce the amount of stretch film used?

An automated pallet wrapper can help to dramatically increase the throughput of your operation.

The manual application of stretch wrap is reliant on the operator applying tension to the roll, minimising the amount of movement in the material.

If the material is not applied at it’s optimum, you are probably overcompensating by applying more layers of stretch film than necessary.    

An automated pallet wrapper system optimises film consumption through advanced technology and precise film application. They calculate the exact amount of film required based on the pallet dimensions, resulting in reduced film waste and cost savings.

Additionally, automated systems often feature film pre-stretching capabilities, stretching the film prior to application, further reducing film consumption and costs.

What is the impact of an automated pallet wrapper on health and safety

Manual pallet wrapping involves physical labour, repetitive motions, and heavy lifting, which can lead to worker fatigue, strains, and injuries. Automated pallet wrappers reduce the need for operatives to bend, twist and stretch.

By automating the pallet wrapping process, your team can focus on less physically demanding tasks.  This reduces the risk of injuries and promotes a safer work

How long does it take to install a pallet wrapper?

Once the right automated pallet wrapper has been identified for your business, installation is typically quick and easy. If it’s not integrated into a wider automated system, it’s a case of plugging it into a power socket, calibrating the system to apply the right tension for your needs and film used.  With the aid of an automated pallet wrapper expert, you could be up and running in just a couple of hours!

By investing in an automated pallet wrapper, you can save time, reduce costs, improve load stability, and enhance worker safety. Ultimately contributing to a more efficient and competitive operation.

Why not contact us today to find out which automated pallet wrapper will best suit your business?

The post What could an automated pallet wrapper do for your business? appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Palletised products require stability to embark on journeys. Vibration, shocks and knocks are common, so high levels of load containment are essential for preventing damage. It can even help reduce costs and maintain supply chain efficiency.

It’s important to select the right pallet stretch wrap to deliver the levels of load containment needed to protect the movement of products.

In this article, we will explore the importance of selecting the right pallet stretch wrap for load containment. Focusing on its impact on product integrity, operational efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction.

How important is pallet stretch wrap in providing product protection and integrity

Pallet wrap is a mainstay packaging product for any operation shipping palletised goods. The right choice of stretch wrap material ensures the stability and protection of the load. The wrap acts as a barrier against moisture, dust, and external contaminants that could potentially damage or compromise the quality of the products.

By securely holding the items together, the pallet wrap minimises the risk of shifting, tipping, or colliding during transportation. Greatly reducing the likelihood of breakage, spills, or spoilage.

For high-value goods where security is paramount, why not introduce a black stretch wrap? It’s a great way to ensure that goods are hidden from view, reducing incidents of theft.

How can the right pallet stretch wrap improve load stability and safety

Load stability is crucial for the safe handling and transportation of goods. Insufficient or incorrect pallet wrapping techniques can result in unstable loads, leading to accidents, injuries, and potential liabilities.

The right pallet wrap provides excellent load containment, distributing the weight evenly across the pallet and reducing the risk of load shifting. It helps maintain the centre of gravity, preventing toppling and imbalance during loading, unloading, and transportation.

By ensuring load stability, the appropriate pallet wrap contributes to a safer working environment. Both for employees and the product, as it minimises the chances of damage or loss.

What is the impact of pallet wrap on cost reduction

Using the right pallet wrap can significantly impact cost savings throughout the supply chain.

Effective load containment reduces the occurrence of damaged goods, minimising the need for returns, replacements, or refunds. By preventing product spoilage and breakage, the right pallet wrap reduces wastage, helping businesses save on materials, resources, and inventory costs.

Additionally, proper load containment enhances space utilisation within trucks or containers.  This optimises the number of products that can be transported in a single shipment by improving pallet stackability.

With the help of a load containment specialist, there may be opportunities to switch to a performance film. This is typically lighter than regular film; they provide excellent load containment with the minimum of material. Reducing the amount of stretch film used in your operation reduces material waste and the cost of wrapping each pallet.

This consolidation reduces transportation expenses and decreases the carbon footprint associated with multiple trips and stretch material manufacturing.

Can the right pallet stretch wrap deliver operational efficiency

Efficiency in logistics operations is vital for meeting customer demands and maintaining a competitive edge.

The right pallet wrap ensures the integrity and stability of the load. This facilitates easier and faster handling, storage, and retrieval of goods. It also simplifies inventory management by reducing product damage, improving inventory accuracy, and preventing stockouts caused by spoilage or breakage.

With the help of a load containment expert, you could also speed up the application of stretch wrap to your pallets. The right strength of stretch wrap can deliver secure pallets for transportation with fewer wraps.

Equally importantly, using an automated pallet wrapper can free up labour. That way, your team can bring/put away pallets whilst the machine is applying the film.

These efficiency gains contribute to streamlined operations, faster order fulfilment, and improved customer satisfaction.

What is the impact of pallet stretch wrap on customer satisfaction

The significance of the right pallet wrap extends to the end consumer.

By choosing the appropriate wrap for load containment, businesses can deliver products in pristine condition, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

A damaged or compromised product not only results in dissatisfaction but may also harm the brand reputation and customer loyalty. Investing in the right pallet wrap for load containment ensures that products arrive intact, preserving their quality and functionality.

Consistently providing customers with undamaged goods enhances trust, fosters repeat business and promote positive word-of-mouth referrals. IMRG’s Home Delivery Review found that 40% of consumers say delivery satisfaction impacts their household decisions when using a retailer.

The importance of selecting the right pallet wrap for load containment cannot be overstated.

By ensuring product integrity, load stability, cost reduction, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, the appropriate choice of pallet wrap positively impacts the entire supply chain.

At Macfarlane Packaging, our load containment experts offer a free-of-charge stretch review. Firstly, we analyse your film performance, load stability & wrapping costs.

Then, our experts take the data and use it to make a recommendation. Afterwards, we’ll explain the best stretch wrap and equipment for your business. And finally, you’ll get an illustration of the savings. Why not contact us today to book an appointment?

If you’re looking for cost savings, why not check out the Packaging Optimiser. A market-leading tool we can use to help you quickly and easily find the hidden costs in your packaging operation. It’ll show you how much you can save, with even quite modest changes to packaging, warehouse layout or processes.

The post The importance of the right pallet stretch wrap in delivering load containment stability appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

One area that presents an opportunity for large strides in sustainability improvements is the reduction of pallet stretch wrap usage.

In this article, we’ll look at the impact of minimising pallet stretch wrap on sustainability goals, focusing on reducing plastic waste, energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall environmental stewardship.

Why stretch wrap is imperative to supply chain

OK, so let’s just confront this head-on; pallet stretch wrap is… plastic. From an environmental perception, plastic is instantly viewed as problematic. However, it does play a crucially important role in protecting products in transit.

For example, the everyday items we purchase from the supermarket. These are shipped in large pallet loads from factories to distribution centres and then to stores. These goods must be transported safely to minimise damage and waste. 

The palletised goods are held in place by the stretch wrap; this is called “load containment”. The contained load has to withstand the rigours of a journey that contains shocks, vibration and, potentially, heavy breaking, which can create momentum for the palletised goods.

The stretch wrap must be able to contain the load firmly but allow enough movement to stop the material from snapping and the contents breaking free and scattering over the back of a lorry.

The impact of stretch wrap reduction on minimising plastic waste

Stretch wrap is applied by wrapping the material around the pallet, overlapping the material as you work up the content.

Typically, a pallet needs multiple layers of film to provide the right level of load containment; the number of times is dependent on the load profile, the weight of the goods being secured and the strength and micron of the stretch wrap being used.

By reducing the amount of stretch wrap used in the pallet wrapping process, businesses can make significant strides toward reducing plastic waste.  This reduction in stretch wrap use not only benefits the environment but also aligns with public sentiment and increasing consumer demand for companies that prioritise sustainability.

If you are looking to reduce your stretch wrap use, there are a couple ways to approach this. 

If you are wrapping pallets by hand, consider switching to a semi or fully automated pallet wrapping system.  This will increase the tension of the film applied to the pallet consistently and reduce the number of wraps required to achieve load containment.  Not only does this reduce material use and cost, it also speeds up the packing process and allows your operator to work more efficiently. 

There are also performance stretch films available that offer high levels of load containment with a thinner material micron, this reduces the weight of film used to wrap each pallet and again, reduces your cost to wrap each pallet as well as reduce the amount of material used.

In both approaches, a load containment expert should always be consulted before making a change to your stretch wrap.  They can test the material currently being used and, make recommendations of replacements that can significantly reduce your pallet wrap use.  This process will take around 1 hour and can deliver up to 50% material savings.

How using less stretch wrap helps to conserve energy

The production and disposal of stretch wrap involve energy-intensive processes, sadly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion.

By reducing stretch wrap use, businesses can effectively conserve energy throughout the supply chain. Using thinner micron performance films or exploring alternative wrapping methods requires less energy during the manufacturing process.

Utilising automated stretch wrap systems with advanced technology can optimise energy consumption during pallet wrapping, reducing overall energy requirements, and promoting energy efficiency.

The knock-on effect of reduced stretch wrap use on CO2 emissions

The manufacturing and disposal of pallet stretch wrap contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from the extraction and processing of fossil fuels used in plastic production, as well as the recycling process of waste.

By reducing the amount of stretch wrap used, businesses can lower their carbon footprint and help to mitigate climate change impacts. Decreased production and disposal of stretch wrap translate into lower emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, supporting a cleaner, healthier environment.

How to improve the sustainability of your stretch wrap

Reducing pallet stretch wrap usage is a great way to reduce plastic use but, you can also reduce your use of virgin plastic by opting for a recycled content material.

Since the advent of the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), single use plastic packaging should contain a minimum of 30% recycled content. As a result, many stretch wrap films are available with up to 30% recycled content.

This is a great way to lower your impact on the extraction of fossil fuels in the manufacturing process and divert plastic waste into viable recycling streams.

The positive effect of reduced stretch wrap use on environmental stewardship

Minimising pallet stretch wrap aligns with broader sustainability goals and demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to environmental stewardship. It showcases a proactive approach to reducing waste and preserving natural resources.

By integrating sustainable practices into palletising operations, businesses can positively influence their supply chain partners and stakeholders, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability throughout the industry.

This commitment can enhance brand reputation, attract eco-conscious customers, and contribute to the overall transition toward a more sustainable and circular economy.

Reducing pallet stretch wrap usage has a significant impact on sustainability goals and environmental stewardship. By minimising plastic waste, conserving energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and exploring sustainable alternatives, businesses can make substantial contributions toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Embracing innovative packaging practices and adopting efficient stretch wrap solutions not only benefits the environment and enhances brand reputation, it also reduces operating costs.

Through conscious efforts to reduce stretch wrap, organisations demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility, setting an example for the industry and inspiring positive change in supply chain practices.

Macfarlane Packaging can support your business with a stretch wrap review, taking less than 1 hour it can reduce the amount of plastic in your palletisation process by up to 50%.  Contact us today to find out more.

The post How using less stretch wrap can positively impact sustainability goals appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

If you use stretch film to wrap your pallets and are looking for cost savings, please read on… there may be opportunities to switch materials and bring down the cost of your packing operation.

Performance stretch film, a specialised type of pallet wrap, offers significant cost-saving advantages.

In this article, we’ll uncover how performance stretch film can reduce operating costs by minimising material waste, improving load stability, optimising inventory management, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing the risk of product damage.

We will cover:

How does performance stretch wrap reduce material waste?

Traditional stretch films require multiple layers of film to be applied to the pallet to achieve a good level of load containment. 

Performance stretch film has superior elongation and cling properties, enabling it to be stretched further with fewer revolutions around the pallet. This reduces the amount of film required to wrap each pallet, reducing material use and, in turn, packaging waste.

The reduction in film required to wrap each pallet not only saves money on packaging material costs and operating expenses but also reduces the tonnage of film entering waste streams. This will reduce your impact on the environment.

The impact of performance stretch wrap on load containment

Traditional stretch films require multiple layers of film to be applied to the pallet to achieve a good level of load containment. 

Performance stretch film has superior elongation and cling properties, enabling it to be stretched further with fewer revolutions around the pallet. This reduces the amount of film required to wrap each pallet, reducing material use and, in turn, packaging waste.

The reduction in film required to wrap each pallet not only saves money on packaging material costs and operating expenses but also reduces the tonnage of film entering waste streams. This will reduce your impact on the environment.

Download our free stretch and pallet wrap guide today! We highlight the different types of film, and help you find the best application method and material for your business!

The knock-on effect of performance stretch wrap on inventory management

Performance stretch wrap can have a positive impact on inventory management.

Firstly, as you are using less film to wrap each pallet, you will purchase and hold less material on site – freeing up warehouse space and reducing cost.

Secondly, the use of performance stretch film can contribute to optimised inventory management of stock. Its excellent load containment properties can provide better stackability, enabling you to achieve higher stacking heights without compromising stability. This maximises warehouse space utilisation, reducing the need for additional storage facilities or costly expansions.

The improved load containment also decreases the likelihood of stockouts caused by damaged inventory.

By optimising inventory management, businesses can reduce carrying costs, improve order fulfilment rates, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

The effect of performance stretch wrap on operational efficiency

Performance stretch film enables faster and more efficient pallet wrapping processes. As less material is used, with fewer rotations around the pallet, it takes much less time to wrap pallets.  Increasing productivity and operation throughput.

Another consideration is the high puncture resistance of performance stretch film, this reduces the occurrence of film breakage or tearing during wrapping, minimising interruptions, and the need for rewrapping.

These efficiency gains lead to continuous improvement in many areas of your business, most of which are identifiability inefficient. These include time savings, streamlined operations, and ultimately, cost reductions.

Is performance stretch wrap right for my business?

If you are shipping out pallets and have an eye for cost reduction then, yes, performance stretch wrap is right for our business.  

We recommend that you engage a stretch wrap expert to take a look at the way you are currently wrapping your pallets and conduct a load containment stretch review. These typically take less than an hour and often, can reduce your stretch wrap use by up to 50%!

Performance stretch film offers a range of cost-saving benefits. By minimising material waste, improving load stability, optimising inventory management, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing the risk of product damage, performance stretch film can significantly impact operating costs.

Introducing performance stretch film to your packing operation only reduces film consumption and disposal expenses but also improves product integrity, increases productivity, and enhances customer satisfaction.

Embracing performance stretch film as a cost-saving measure is a strategic investment that can enhance the overall profitability and competitiveness of businesses in today’s demanding market.

Macfarlane packaging offers free-of-charge load containment stretch reviews. In under 1 hour, we analyse your film performance, load stability & wrapping costs. As well as recommending the optimal pallet wrapping equipment for your operation.

If you would like to find out more, please visit click here!

The post How performance stretch film can reduce cost in your packing operation appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Sure, boxes and tape get the most limelight; but if you want your parcels to stay well protected, stretch film and pallet wrap shouldn’t be forgotten. It’s thought that 150,000 tonnes of stretch wrap are used per year, so getting familiar with the product will only result in a positive.

In this blog, we will explore the benefits of using stretch film, along with the different types and application methods frequently used. We’ll cover common questions about recyclability and help you decide which stretch film would be best for your business.

What is stretch wrap?

Stretch wrap is a highly stretchable plastic film (typically made with polyethylene) wrapped around items. It’s also commonly called stretch film or pallet wrap.

Due to the film’s elasticity, it keeps items tightly bound, stopping them from moving about during storage and transit. One of the most common uses is to secure products on pallets.

Stretch wrap is available in different colours, lengths, and thicknesses. The thickness of the film is measured in a unit known as a micron, sometimes referred to as mu. Usually, the higher the micron, the stronger the stretch film.

KEY INFORMATION – Usually, the higher the micron, the stronger the stretch film.

The benefits of stretch wrap

There are many benefits to stretch wrap; some of these include:

• Prevent damage
• Helps with the safe moment of goods
• Minimising tampering
• Prevent loss

Like most packaging supplies, stretch film is used to protect products in storage and transit, arguably one of the most important areas for customer experience.

If their order arrives damaged, it affects consumer perception and costs your business. The impact (if frequent enough) could be significant to areas like administration and transportation.

Do you know that 90% of your operating costs are hidden? To unearth them, we recommend the Packaging Optimiser; designed to save you money and reduce your carbon footprint, it’s the perfect packaging tool.

Different types of stretch film

There are three main types of stretch film that you’ll come across:

Blown Stretch Film

Blown stretch films are made using a circular die that extrudes bubble of film. Additives are used to provide high cling, and good load stabilisation attributes.

Characteristics of Blown stretch films:

• Milkier or dull film appearance
• High cling on both sides of the film
• Excellent puncture resistance
• Bi-directional tear resistance

Cast Stretch Film

Cast stretch films are made using a flat die and can be produced with multiple layers. They have a smooth surface with excellent gloss, strength, and cling without additives.

Characteristics of cast stretch film:

• Clear and glossy film
• High transparency
• Film has cling on one side only
• Lower noise when being unwound
• Superior tear resistance

Pre-Stretched Film

Pre-stretched film involves stretching the film during manufacture. This can help improve film strength, load stability and even the amount of film needed to wrap goods.

Characteristics of pre-stretch film:

• Good yield
• Very strong film
• Good for fast wrapping

Download our free stretch and pallet wrap guide today! We highlight the different types of film, and help you find the best application method and material for your business!

Different types of application

There are two main ways stretch wrap can be applied, by hand or machine.

Hand application is when stretch film is manually applied by hand, which can be done with or without a hand dispenser. All hand-applied stretch films are supplied on standard cores for use with hand-applied applicators or extended cores.

Machine application is when stretch film is applied to a pallet or product using a pallet wrapper. A pallet wrapper is a machine that automatically winds film around a product. Machine-applied stretch films are extremely strong and versatile, which saves time, resources and packaging materials for high-performance applications requiring higher tensile strengths. These films have excellent puncture resistance and good cling, slip and load retention.

Products

The possibilities are endless when it comes to stretch wrap; from different applications and types to varying strengths, you have so many great options.

To view the full range, click here. If you would like more advice to help to choose the stretch wrap for you, why not download the full stretch film & pallet wrap guide?

Common questions about stretch wrap

Below we have listed some popular questions people have around stretch wrap. If you have any more queries that are not listed, our team of experts will be happy to help you.

Can stretch wrap be recycled?

Stretch wrap is made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE), which means it is a category 4 plastic material.

It can be recycled industrially but may not be collected at kerbside. Anyone looking to recycle stretch film locally should check with their local authority.

As it’s made from LDPE, you may be able to recycle it with supermarket carrier bag collections, however, it’s advisable to check services like Recycle Now or the collection points in your area.

Choosing the best stretch film for you

We recommend you measure your current usage and review your application before selecting a stretch film. The best way to calculate your usage is to look at your stretch yield in metres and your yield costs in weight. This enables you to calculate the effectiveness of your stretch wrap by calculating the cost to wrap a pallet.

Don’t forget, we have a full guide available to you, filled with more lots more detail. If you would like more advice about stretch wrap or packaging in general, why not contact us today!

The post The ultimate guide to stretch film and pallet wrap appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.