Glossary
Stretch film
Definition
A highly stretchable plastic film that clings to itself to bundle and secure loads. Applied under tension, it is used mainly to stabilise palletised goods.
Also known as: Stretch wrap, Pallet stretch film
Stretch film is an elastic plastic film, typically LLDPE, that stretches under tension and clings to itself, wrapping goods into a tight, secure unit. Its most common use is pallet wrap, binding stacked boxes so they travel and store as one stable load, but narrower rolls also bundle smaller items.
It is produced by two methods with different characters. Cast stretch film is made by extruding onto a chilled roller, giving a clear, quiet, easy-to-unwind film. Blown stretch film is cooled with air, producing a tougher, higher-cling film with better puncture resistance for sharp or heavy loads, though it is noisier and slightly hazier.
Modern pre-stretched and multi-layer films let a thinner gauge hold as firmly as a heavier conventional film, cutting plastic use per pallet. Stretch film differs from shrink film, which is heated to shrink around goods; stretch film holds purely by tension and cling, and for very heavy loads it is often combined with strapping.
What to check
- Choose cast for clarity and quiet, blown for toughness and cling.
- Consider pre-stretched film to reduce plastic use per load.
- Match micron and film type to load weight and edges.
- Select hand or machine film to suit your wrapping method.
- For heavy or unstable loads, add strapping alongside the film.
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Stretch film — FAQs
What is the difference between cast and blown stretch film?
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