Machine Stretch Film Sizes and Specifications

Machine stretch film comes in a variety of sizes to accommodate different packaging needs and machine configurations. While hand stretch film is often used for smaller or manual tasks, machine stretch film is typically the preferred choice for high-volume operations. Choosing the right size of stretch film is crucial for optimizing packaging efficiency, ensuring that the products are secured properly while minimizing waste. The following is an overview of the most common sizes and specifications of machine stretch film, which offer faster application and greater consistency compared to manual wrapping.

Machine Stretch Film Sizes

Width

The width of the machine stretch film determines how much coverage is applied with each pass. The most common widths are:

• 12 inches (300mm): Often used for smaller pallets or compact loads. This size is commonly used in machines designed for lighter or smaller loads. It’s perfect for wrapping products that do not require extensive coverage or those that are packaged in smaller quantities.
• 20 inches (500mm): A standard width used in a variety of packaging operations. This size is versatile and is frequently chosen for general-purpose applications. It works well for medium-sized pallets or products that need moderate wrap coverage.
• 30 inches (750mm): This wider film is used for wrapping larger or heavier loads. It provides more coverage with fewer passes, making it more efficient for wrapping larger quantities of products or heavier items. It’s commonly used in warehouse or distribution operations for bulk goods.
• 40 inches (1000mm): Used for very large items or multi-pallet loads, this size offers maximum coverage and efficiency. The extra width ensures that large, heavy loads are securely wrapped with minimal material wastage. This size is ideal for big packaging operations or large industrial equipment.

Thickness

The thickness of machine stretch film is crucial to determining its strength and ability to hold heavy loads securely. Machine stretch films typically range in thickness from 12 microns (0.012mm) to 35 microns (0.035mm). The appropriate thickness depends on the strength required for the load being wrapped. For lighter loads, thinner films are often sufficient, while heavier items may need thicker, more durable options. For industries requiring corrosion protection, VCI stretch film is available in similar thicknesses, typically ranging from 17 microns to 35 microns, depending on the level of protection needed. 

• Thinner films (12-15 microns): These are often used for lighter loads, offering a balance between cost and performance. Thinner films are typically sufficient for lighter goods that don’t require extra strength or puncture resistance.
• Medium thickness (17-20 microns): This thickness is the most common for standard applications. It provides strength while remaining cost-effective, making it ideal for general packaging needs across many industries.
• Thicker films (25-35 microns): Thicker films are used for heavy-duty applications where extra strength, puncture resistance, and durability are required. These films are ideal for securing large, heavy, or sharp-edged items that need additional protection during transport.

Length

The length of machine stretch film rolls can vary depending on the volume of packaging and the type of stretch wrapping machine used. Rolls typically range from:

• 1,000 feet (305 meters) to 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) per roll, with some options going up to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). Longer rolls are especially useful for high-volume packaging applications as they reduce the frequency of roll changes during the wrapping process. Longer rolls also help reduce downtime and increase packaging efficiency.

The roll length chosen depends on the wrapping machine’s capacity and the packaging speed required for the operation. For high-speed, high-volume packaging environments, longer rolls are often preferred to maximize efficiency and minimize interruptions.

Core Size

The core diameter of machine stretch film plays an important role in determining the compatibility of the film with various machines. The two most common core sizes are:

• 3-inch cores: This is the most common size used with stretch wrap machines. It fits standard machines and is suitable for a wide range of applications.
• 6-inch cores: Used for larger, high-capacity machines or for operations that require a larger roll capacity. This core size accommodates larger rolls that are more suitable for high-volume packaging environments, allowing machines to operate for longer periods without frequent roll changes.