Stretch Film vs. Shrink Film: The Difference

If you're looking for a type of film but are unsure which one you need, you're not alone. Many people confuse stretch film with shrink film, but they are distinct materials with different uses. Using the wrong film for the wrong application can lead to significant issues.

For example, one type of film can be used in a heat tunnel to package products, while using the other in the same situation could cause a fire. Understanding the differences between these two films is crucial when selecting the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll clarify the distinctions between stretch film and shrink film, and highlight the proper applications for each.

What Is Shrink Film?

Shrink film, also known as shrink wrap, is a type of polymer-based plastic packaging material, typically made from polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polyethylene. When heat is applied, usually with a heat gun or heat tunnel, the film shrinks uniformly around the product, tightly sealing it.

For smaller products, a heat gun (which resembles a hair dryer) is commonly used to shrink the film. For example, about 12 years ago, I used a heat gun to seal shrink film around recycled inkjet cartridges.

For larger volumes, a heat tunnel is used in conjunction with an L-bar sealer. The shrink film is loosely sealed around the product and then conveyed through the heat tunnel, where it shrinks evenly as it passes through.

Shrink film is widely used for packaging various products, such as frozen pizza boxes, produce, and other food and consumer goods.

What Is Stretch Film?

Stretch film, or stretch wrap, is a highly elastic, polymer-based plastic film used primarily for wrapping pallets of products during shipping. The film’s stretchability ensures that the load is tightly secured, preventing items from shifting during transport.

Stretch film is often applied with a stretch wrap machine to achieve superior load containment. For manual applications, a stretch wrap dispenser is used to stretch and wrap the film around the pallet.

The process involves tucking the film under the corner of the pallet, and then walking around the pallet, stretching the film tightly from the bottom to the top. As the worker moves around, the film is pulled taut, ensuring the products are tightly wrapped and securely contained for shipping. This process is known as load containment.

What Is The Difference Between Shrink Film And Stretch Film?

Shrink film is used for packaging products. It shrinks to form around the shape of the products being packaged.

Stretch film is used to wrap pallets of pre-packaged goods prior to shipping.

Shrink film does not stretch and you cannot use it as a stretch film. Stretch film does not shrink and it cannot be sent through a heat tunnel or used with a heat gun.

What Are the Benefits of Stretch Wrap?

1. Reduced Shipping Damages – Stretch film helps to secure goods tightly to a pallet, minimizing movement during transport. This reduces the risk of shifting and damage caused by handling or rough transit conditions.

2. Protection Against the Elements – Stretch film acts as a protective barrier against dirt, dust, moisture, and other environmental factors that can cause damage during storage or shipping.

3. Sustainability – Many types of stretch film are recyclable, offering an environmentally friendly packaging option.

4. Cost-Effective – Compared to other packaging methods like strapping, stretch film is a more affordable option, helping to reduce overall packaging costs.

5. Versatility – The stretchability of the film allows it to wrap around oddly-shaped or hard-to-stack loads, providing a secure hold for a wide range of products.

What Are the Benefits of Shrink Wrap?

1. Product Protection – Shrink wrap creates a protective seal around products, keeping contaminants such as dust and moisture away, ensuring the integrity of the product.

2. Tamper Evident – Any tampering with a product is immediately noticeable, offering a visible security feature for both retailers and consumers.

3. Increased Branding Space – Shrink wrap can be custom printed with branding, promotional messages, or designs, giving businesses additional space to market their products.

4. Extends Shelf Life – When used with modified atmosphere packaging, shrink film can help preserve fresh produce, preventing spoilage and extending shelf life.

Which Type of Film Should You Use?

The type of film you choose depends entirely on your specific application. Whether you need shrink film, stretch film, or another option will depend on the product you're packaging and the desired outcome.

When to Use Shrink Film

Shrink film is an excellent choice when you want to package products for retail display while achieving a glossy, professional finish. It’s ideal for products that need to catch the consumer's eye, and using printed shrink film can further enhance visual appeal.

Shrink film is also highly effective for packaging food. If you're packaging food products, polyolefin shrink film is particularly recommended due to its food-safe properties.

To determine the right type of shrink film for your needs, ask yourself the following questions about your product:

- Are you packaging food? If so, polyolefin shrink film is your best choice.

- Does your packaging need to breathe? Consider perforated shrink film if your product requires ventilation.

- Are your products sensitive to heat? If the answer is yes, shrink film may not be suitable, as it uses heat to shrink around the product.

- Are your customers environmentally conscious? Opt for biodegradable shrink films instead of traditional plastic to appeal to eco-friendly consumers.

- Are you working within a tight budget? Traditional clear plastic shrink film is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious projects.

In conclusion, both stretch film and shrink wrap have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. When deciding which film to use, it's important to consider the specific application, the product being packaged, and the budget available. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on the needs of the business and the products being shipped. For more information, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.