Packaging terminology can be confusing, so we’ve compiled the essential terms and definitions around pallet wrap and machinery.
Whether you’re looking to optimise your current methods, train new staff, or brush up on your existing knowledge, our glossary is designed to be a handy reference tool for all things pallet wrapping.
Pallet Wrap
Pallet wrap, also known as stretch film, is a highly stretchable plastic film commonly used to secure and bundle items on a pallet for transportation and storage. Made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), this versatile material adheres tightly to objects, providing stability and protection against shifting, dust, moisture, and tampering. Its ability to stretch significantly without tearing makes it ideal for holding loads firmly in place, enhancing the safety and efficiency of shipping operations across various industries.
Stretch The ability of a material, such as film, to be stretched or extended without breaking.
High yield A term used to describe stretch film that is highly stretchable, allowing it to stretch further and therefore use less film to secure a load. These require more stretch force during application.
Low yield Films that how lower levels of stretch are classed as low yield. These will require less force to be exerted whilst wrapping the pallet to achieve a stable load.
Pre-stretched A type of stretch film that has already been stretched to its maximum stretchability before it is applied to a load.
Rigid films High strength and generally low thickness films that ensure a great holding force and at the same time low consumption. Often used for heavier or more irregularly shaped loads.
Lockout Identifies when the film has been stretched to its optimal amount for increased load stability.
Extended core A type of hand film roll with an extended core or handle, allowing the operator to easily grip and control the roll while applying the film.
Standard core A hand film core which will not protrude significantly at either end of the pallet wrap.
Roping Gathering the full width of film using a bar or roller to create a rope. Stretch film that has been roped is nearly unbreakable and is often used to lock a pallet to the product.
Low density polyethylene (LDPE) Flexible, odourless, transparent, 100% recyclable thermoplastic polymer film.
Micron Metric measurement used for measuring film thickness. One micron is equal to one millionth of a meter.
Core
Coreless
Cast stretch wrap
Containment force
Film tension
Nano film
Extremus Our Extremus pallet wrap film is made to go the extra mile, consistently out-performing other films on stretch and stability, minimising usage and maximising stability like nothing else.
Machinery
Pallet wrapping machinery, are automated or semi-automated devices designed to apply stretch film efficiently and consistently around palletised loads. These machines ensure that products are securely wrapped, providing stability and protection during transportation and storage. By automating the wrapping process, they enhance operational efficiency, reduce labour costs, and improve wrapping consistency, which helps prevent load shifting and damage.
Mobile pallet wrapping machine
Turntable pallet wrapping machine
Rotary Arm pallet wrapping machine
In-line pallet wrapping machine
Low profile
Carriage
Load stability
ILS or Intelligent Load Stability is our complete solution for pallet wrapping. We combine advance films, high performance machinery and our unrivalled expertise, in order to deliver improved load stability and the lowest cost per pallet wrapped, whilst minimising your plastic usage and carbon footprint.
Load stability consultations One of our Packaging Consultants will really get to know your operations, challenges and opportunities to improve and our discovery phase will lead to a full report and a fully-costed recommendation designed specifically for you. We then optimise your
Core brake This refers to a mechanism on the machine which typically can be turned to adjust the stretch on the film. Machines with this are typically suited to low yield films.
Power pre-stretch A machine mechanism that allows high yield films to be stretched to their maximum elongation, minimising the amount of film used per pallet.
