The Ultimate Guide to Choosing plastic film wholesale

Here are the main criteria to consider and questions to ask when selecting plastic film for industrial packaging:

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The type of load:

What type of product are you wrapping? Is it a dry or wet product? What’s its size and weight? Select film thickness, width, and length according to the size and weight of your products. Also, take into account how smooth they are and possible sharp corners that could tear the film.

The type of plastic:

This depends on the nature of the product to be packed. Commonly used plastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Each has different properties in terms of strength, transparency, and flexibility.

Desired function:

What will your film be used for? Packaging, protection, heat retention, sealing, etc.?

Some films have specific properties that make them resistant to chemicals, UV, or heat. Others are more transparent. Some also have electrical conductivity properties.

Duration of use:

How long do you expect your film to last, whether in transit or in long-term storage?

Respect for the environment:

More and more plastic films are recyclable or biodegradable. Naturally, we advise you to opt for this type of product for obvious environmental reasons.

In industrial applications, several types of plastic film are used, depending on their specific properties and applications. Here are some of the types of plastic film commonly used:

Stretch film

Stretch film is a versatile material, often made from extruded polyethylene in one or more layers, depending on its intended use. It is known for its flexibility as it can stretch from 125% to 500% of its original length.

There are two main types of stretch film, depending on the extrusion technique used.

1. Cast
   • This film is suitable for standard, even heavy loads with low-profile angles.
   • It offers good adhesion, high lengthwise strength, high transparency, and silent unwinding, and is generally compatible with automatic wrapping machines.
2. Blown
   • This film is suitable for heavy, angular, and uneven loads.
   • It offers very good adhesion, high strength in length and width, limited transparency, the ability to withstand low temperatures, and enhanced durability.

Advantages:

• Strong, puncture- and tear-resistant
• It adheres without sticking to the load.

Disadvantages:

• To effectively secure a load, the stretch film must be carefully stretched, which can make the packaging process more complex.
• However, some stretch film can be pre-stretched before use to simplify the packaging process.

Applications:

• Stretch film is used to wrap and secure pallets of products in the logistics industry.
• It is also commonly used for packaging fresh produce and foodstuffs.

Plastic film is a versatile product whose properties are largely influenced by the plastic of which it is made. Here are the main plastics used in the manufacture of plastic film:

Polyethylene (PE)

It is one of the most commonly used plastics in industry. It can be produced in single-layer or coextruded versions to meet a variety of needs. It shrinks at temperatures of around 150°C.

There are two types of PE: low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). PE film is generally 40 to 50 micrometers thick, but thinner versions are available, notably LDPE, which also has non-stick and anti-slip properties.

Advantages:

• PE film is renowned for its moisture resistance.
• It is flexible.
• It is transparent.
• It is the most economical.

Applications:

• Food packaging
• Bulk packaging
• Beverage can packs
• Packaging for furniture, household appliances, etc.

The color of the plastic film is an essential aspect of the packaging. Each color has its own specific use. The color you choose will depend on the company’s needs, the type of products packed, and the environments in which these products are stored or transported.

Transparent film

This is particularly useful for identifying packaged products. In a warehousing or production environment, transparency means you can quickly see which products are contained on pallets without having to remove the film. This improves efficiency and inventory management.

Black film

This provides effective protection against light. It is therefore used to protect light-sensitive products (photosensitive materials, chemicals). In addition, black plastic film offers a degree of privacy, as it conceals the pallet’s contents.

White film

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This is similar to black film in terms of light protection. It has the added advantage of effectively protecting products from UV rays. This feature is important for products that could be damaged by prolonged exposure to the sun.

Translucent blue film

This film is commonly used in food packaging. The color blue is often associated with freshness and food safety, making it a popular choice for products intended for human consumption.

Other plastic film colors can be used to help identify products in a storage environment, allowing them to be distinguished at a glance and saving time during order picking. Red, for example, is one of these colors.

Cost can vary considerably depending on film type, thickness, and material. Here are some price estimates for the three main types of film:

Stretch film

Stretch film prices can range from 3 euros to over 100 euros per roll.

For film that is applied manually, prices range from 3 euros to over 50 euros, depending on the size of the roll. Less expensive film is generally suitable for light loads, while more expensive film is suitable for heavier loads or specific uses.
If you wish to apply your film with a wrapping machine, prices range from 30 euros to over 90 euros per roll.

Shrink film

Shrink film is available at prices ranging from 20 euros to over 400 euros per roll.
The price difference depends mainly on the width of the roll (prices increase with width) and the thickness of the film.

Examples:

• Very fine POF (10-15 microns) are more expensive, from 160 euros to 300 euros.
• PE film (40-50 microns) ranges in price from 60 euros to over 120 euros.
• PVC film (20-30 microns) ranges from 50 euros to over 100 euros.

Bubble wrap

Bubble wrap ranges in price from 3 euros to 100 euros for a roll approximately 1 meter long.

• Standard bubble wrap costs between 3 euros and 20 euros.
• Antistatic bubble wrap costs between 5 euros and 30 euros.
• Anti-corrosion bubble wrap is available from between 10 euros to 50 euros.
• Isothermal bubble wrap ranges in price from 20 euros to 80 euros.

Ever worried about your products getting damaged during shipping or storage? Shrink wrap can be your hero! It’s a stretchy, strong plastic film that keeps your products safe and looking good on their way to customers.

But with so many different types of shrink wrap out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help! We’ll break down the different options and features of shrink wrap, making it easy for you to pick the perfect one for your business needs.

What is Shrink Film and Why is it Important?

Imagine a superhero for your products during shipping and storage! That’s shrink film in a nutshell. It’s a thin, stretchy plastic wrap that keeps your products safe and looking good when they reach your customers.

Here’s why shrink film matters:

• Keeps Products Safe: It acts as a barrier against dust, moisture, and accidental bumps and scrapes.
• Prevents Tampering: The tight seal makes it hard for anyone to mess with your products.
• Reduces Shipping Costs: Shrink film is lightweight, which can lower your shipping fees.
• Boosts Customer Satisfaction: Neat and protected products project a professional image and make customers happy.

Understanding Shrink Film Types

• LDPE Shrink Wrap (Low-Density Polyethylene): This is your everyday hero, the most popular choice because it’s clear, affordable, and easy to work with. Think of it like a stretchy plastic bag that shrinks tight with heat. LDPE Shrink Wrap is perfect for lighter items like books, clothes, or bundled products.
• MDPE Shrink Wrap (Medium-Density Polyethylene):  Need something a bit tougher? MDPE is your friend. It’s stronger than LDPE and can handle heavier products without tearing. Think of it like a thicker, more heavy-duty version of shrink wrap. Ideal for irregularly shaped items like toys or boxes with sharp edges, or even heavier things like books in bulk.
• PVC Shrink Wrap (Polyvinyl Chloride):  This type is the ultimate shrinker, like a super-powered wrap that hugs your products tightly. It’s also great for situations where the temperature might change during shipping, keeping everything secure. Plus, it’s tamper-proof, so no one can mess with your products. However, some people prefer not to use PVC because of environmental concerns.
• POF Shrink Wrap (Polyolefin):  Looking for crystal clear and super safe? POF takes the crown. It’s so clear you can see everything through it, making it perfect for medical supplies or products you want customers to see clearly. Bonus: It’s also approved for food contact, so you can use it for things like wrapped snacks.

Remember: When choosing your shrink wrap, consider the weight and shape of your products, if they need extra protection, and if clarity is important.

Finding the Perfect Fit: Shrink Film Thickness Explained

Shrink film comes in different thicknesses, just like your favorite sweater comes in light and heavy versions.  We call this thickness the “gauge.”  A higher gauge means a thicker film, while a lower gauge is thinner but still strong.

Why Thickness Matters:

Choosing the right gauge is important because it affects how well the film protects your products.  Here’s the key:

• Too Thin: A film that’s too thin might not be strong enough to protect your products during shipping or storage.
• Too Thick: A film that’s too thick can be wasteful and cost more.

Finding the Goldilocks Gauge:

The best gauge depends on the size and weight of your products.  Think of it like wrapping a gift: a small box doesn’t need a ton of wrapping paper, but a bigger box might need something more substantial.

Quick Gauge Guide:

Here’s a handy table to help you choose the right film gauge for your most common items:

Remember: This is just a guide. If you’re unsure about the best gauge for your products, it’s always best to consult with a packaging expert.

More Than Just Wrap: Important Shrink Film Features

There’s more to shrink wrap than meets the eye! Here are some key features to consider when choosing the perfect film for your needs:

• Crystal Clear Presentation: Want your products to shine? Opt for high-clarity film. It acts like an invisible box, letting customers see exactly what they’re getting.
• Super Strong Seal: The seal is the superhero of shrink wrap! A strong seal keeps your products safe and secure during shipping. Choose a seal strength that matches the weight and type of product you’re wrapping.
• Shrink Like a Boss: Shrink ratio refers to how much the film shrinks down. A higher ratio means you can use less film to cover more, saving you money and reducing waste.
• Static Busters: Electronics and sensitive parts can attract dust like a magnet. Anti-static shrink wrap is your friend! It helps prevent static cling, keeping your delicate products safe.

Putting the Wrap On: How to Use Shrink Film

There are two main ways to apply shrink film to your products:

The DIY Approach (Manual Shrink Wrap):

• This is perfect for small businesses or occasional use. All you need is a heat gun (like a powerful hairdryer) and some muscle. It’s good because you can wrap anything, any size or shape.

The Time-Saving Hero (Automated Shrink Wrap):

• If you’re a high-volume shipper or need consistent results, a shrink tunnel is your best bet. This is basically a heat chamber that shrinks the wrap quickly and evenly. It’s faster, more accurate, and can even be hooked up to your existing production line.

Choosing the Right Method:

The best method depends on your needs. If you’re just starting out or have a low volume, manual wrapping might be sufficient. But if you ship a lot of products or want a faster, more consistent process, then a shrink tunnel is the way to go.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect shrink film is a delicate dance between product protection needs, budget constraints, and operational capabilities. By understanding the various types, gauges, and features, businesses can make an informed decision that ensures their products are delivered and stored in optimal conditions.

Reach out to us for personalized consultations and recommendations, and start reaping the benefits of shrink film in your packaging strategy.

Optimize Your Packaging with Expert Guidance

Navigating the vast world of shrink films doesn’t have to be intimidating. Reach out to our packaging specialists to find the perfect shrink film that caters to all your business-specific needs. Whether you require a high-clarity film to highlight the beauty of your products or a heavyweight protector for your most valuable cargo, we’ve got you covered. Make the right choice today and protect your business’s most valuable asset — its products.

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