When it comes to packaging and protecting products for transportation or storage, there are several types of plastic films available. Two of the most common are stretch film and shrink film. While both are made from plastic and share some similarities, there are significant differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between stretch film and shrink film and help you determine which one might be the best fit for your needs.

What is Stretch Film?

Stretch film, also known as stretch wrap, is a type of plastic film that is wrapped around a product or a pallet to secure it in place. It's made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and is designed to stretch up to 300% of its original length. This stretchability allows the film to conform tightly to the shape of the product or pallet, providing a secure hold.

Uses of Stretch Film:

• Wrapping pallets to keep them stable during transportation

• Securing boxes or bags to prevent them from opening during transportation

• Protecting products from dust, dirt, and moisture

• Bundling products together

Pros of Stretch Film:

• Economical and cost-effective

• Easy to use and apply

• Can be used with manual or automatic equipment

• Can be recycled

Cons of Stretch Film:

• Not suitable for irregularly shaped or sharp-edged products

• May not provide as much protection as other packaging materials for fragile items

• May not be suitable for heavy-duty applications

What is Shrink Film?

Shrink film, also known as shrink wrap, is a plastic film that is wrapped around products and then heated to shrink and conform to the shape of the product. It is often used to package food items, machinery and vehicles, and other retail products. Shrink film can be made from various types of plastics, including polyethylene, polyolefin, and PVC. At Adventpac, our shrink wrap/film is made from polyethylene.

Uses of Shrink Film:

• Packaging food items

• Wrapping retail products

• Providing a tamper-evident seal for products

• Protecting products from dirt and moisture

Pros of Shrink Film:

• Provides a tight, secure fit around products

• Offers excellent protection from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors

• Can be printed on, providing a branding opportunity

• Suitable for irregularly shaped or sharp-edged products

• Provides heavy-duty protection (compared to stretch film)

Cons of Shrink Film:

• Requires special equipment (heat gun or heat tunnel) to apply

• More expensive than stretch film

• Requires a heat source to shrink the film, which means it may not be suitable for all products

• Not as environmentally friendly as other packaging materials (not easily recyclable)

Which One Should You Use?

Deciding whether to use stretch film or shrink film depends on your specific needs and requirements. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• The type of product you are packaging: If you are packaging irregularly shaped or sharp-edged products, shrink film may be the better option. However, if you are packaging products that have a more regular shape, the stretch film may be suitable.

• The level of protection required: If you need to protect products from environmental factors such as moisture and dirt, shrink film is the better choice. If you require less protection, stretch film may be sufficient.

• Your budget: Stretch film is generally less expensive than shrink film, so if cost is a concern, it may be the best option.

Conclusion:

Stretch film and shrink film are both useful tools for packaging and protecting products during transportation and storage. Understanding the differences between the two and their respective pros and cons will help you determine which one is the best fit for your needs. If you're still unsure which product is right for you, get in touch and our friendly team will be able to help you with your packaging needs.