Stretch Wrap

Stretch wrap is a highly stretchable plastic film, typically made from linear low-density polyethylene, that is wrapped tightly around palletized freight to unitize the load, prevent shifting during transit, and protect products from dust, moisture, and contamination. In cold chain logistics, proper stretch wrapping is critical both for load stability and for maintaining the temperature integrity of individual pallets.

Standard stretch wrap film is 70 to 80 gauge thickness for hand application and 60 to 80 gauge for machine application. The film stretches 100 to 300 percent during application, creating tension that holds the cases and products tightly together on the pallet. Proper wrapping technique involves overlapping each layer by 50 percent, anchoring the film to the pallet base, and applying extra wraps at the top to secure the load crown.

Temperature Considerations

In refrigerated and frozen environments, stretch wrap performance changes significantly. Standard film becomes brittle and loses its elasticity at temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more likely to tear during application and less effective at maintaining load integrity. Cold-temperature stretch wrap formulations are available that remain flexible and adhesive at temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, and these should be specified for operations in cold storage and freezer facilities.

Improper stretch wrapping is a common cause of freight damage in cold chain transportation. Under-wrapped pallets can shift and topple during transit, while over-wrapped pallets can restrict airflow around the product. For certain fresh produce items, ventilated stretch wrap with perforations is used to allow continued air circulation while still maintaining load stability. The cost of stretch wrap is minimal compared to the product value it protects, making proper wrapping a high-return investment.