How to Choose the Right Stretch Film Thickness

This guide supports general product selection. Confirm the final choice through a trial on the real load, equipment and application conditions.

What does micron mean?

Micron describes film thickness, but it is not a stand-alone measure of load security. Tear resistance, cling, puncture behaviour and stretch also depend on the film recipe, production settings and wrapping conditions.

Assess the load and pallet together

Carton surfaces, protrusions, sharp corners, pallet height, gaps and centre of gravity all affect the wrapping requirement. Test vulnerable corners and edges before selecting a film.

Hand and machine application differ

With hand application, operator tension and number of wraps directly affect consumption. With machine application, pre-stretch, brake settings and wrapping programme must work together.

Decide through a test plan

Wrap the same load with the current and candidate film. Record net film weight, wraps, pallet stability, punctures and condition after transport. Compare cost per pallet, not only roll price.

Information needed for a technical proposal

Share pallet size, average load height and weight, surface type, daily pallet count, wrapping method and current film details. This helps establish a suitable width, gauge and roll length.

Request a technical assessment for your application

Share your load, surface, machine and intended-use details so we can assess suitable product options together.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

Is a higher micron always better?

No. The appropriate film is the one that provides sufficient load holding under the actual wrapping conditions. Excess thickness can increase consumption, while insufficient thickness can cause punctures or instability.

How should I compare film consumption?

Measure net roll weight, wrap count and film used per comparable pallet, then assess pallet stability and damage observations together.

Does the calculator give a final specification?

It provides a starting comparison. Confirm the final choice through a real load, machine and transport test.

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