Stretch film is one of the most widely used materials for packaging and securing goods. Thanks to its elasticity, tear resistance and ease of use, it is utilized across nearly every industry — from warehouses and wholesalers to e-commerce businesses and transport companies. In this article, we explain the types of stretch film available, what they are used for and how they differ.

• Types of Stretch Film – Several main types of stretch film are available on the market, each differing in thickness, method of application and intended use:
• Hand Stretch Film – The most popular form, used for packing smaller loads. Applied manually, it is ideal for securing parcels and individual products. Widely used in e-commerce stores, warehouses and small businesses.
• Machine Stretch Film – Designed for automatic and semi-automatic wrapping machines. It offers higher efficiency and consistent tension, which reduces material usage when packing large volumes of goods.
• Mini-Roll (Mini Wrap) – A narrow roll (typically 10–12 cm wide), perfect for quickly securing small items, cable bundles, profiles or compact packages.
• Pre-Stretch Film-  Film that has been pre-elongated during production. It is lighter and more economical, providing the same level of load stability while using significantly less material.

Applications of Stretch Film

Stretch film is extremely versatile. It is most commonly used for:

• wrapping pallets to stabilize them during transport,

• protecting parcels from dust, moisture and dirt,

• bundling multiple items into a single, stable transport unit,

• protecting delicate surfaces from scratches,

• temporarily securing items during renovation or moving.

Differences Between Stretch Films

Although all stretch films serve the same purpose, they differ in several key parameters:

• Film Thickness – Typically ranging from 8 to 35 microns. Thinner films are more economical, while thicker ones provide higher resistance to damage.
• Elongation –  The higher the stretchability, the better the film adapts to the shape of the load.
• Material Type – Most films are made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), which ensures flexibility and durability.
• Color – Transparent is the most common, but black films (used for light protection and privacy) and blue films (often used in the food industry) are also available.

How to Choose the Right Stretch Film?

The right film depends on the type of goods, the packing method and the transport conditions. Small businesses will benefit most from hand stretch film, while large warehouses handling high volumes should consider machine stretch film, which speeds up the packaging process and reduces material usage.

Summary

Stretch film is an indispensable material in logistics and transport. Choosing the right type ensures secure load protection, reduces packaging costs and streamlines the shipping process. At PRUWIZ, we offer a wide range of stretch films with various parameters — tailored to the needs of every business.