If you work with palletized shipments, you’re probably familiar with stretch film and strapping as options for securing and bundling loads. While both products are effective tools, they each have their own ideal use cases and, in some cases, may need to be used in combination. At Strapping-Products.com, we carry an excellent selection of both stretch film and strapping materials rated for jobs of all sizes. We’ll take a closer look at both products, the types of situations they are ideal for, and when they should be used together.
What is Stretch Film Used For?
Stretch film is commonly used as an affordable and effective method for load containment. When used correctly, stretch film creates a single unit out of palletized goods, making it much easier to work with and transport. Some of the benefits you get when you use stretch film include:
- Prevents cartons from shifting during normal handling
- Protects products from dust, dirt, and moisture
- Improves pallet stability
- Provides tamper evidence
- Fast and efficient application
While stretch film is an excellent option for lighter loads, it should not be used on its own to secure heavier loads or loads with sharp edges. If you’re going to be working with heavier loads or loads with sharp edges, straps or straps with stretch film are a better option.
When Should Straps Be Used Instead of Stretch Film
Strapping is used when you need to apply tension and compression to products. Strapping products can also be used to more securely bind products together, making them the first choice for securing products that are going to be transported or exposed to road travel conditions. Typically, you’ll want to use straps instead of stretch film when you’re securing heavier loads for shipment like:
- Lumber and building materials
- Brick and concrete products
- Metal products
- Industrial equipment
- Heavy pallet loads
Strapping materials can also be used with edge protectors to secure loads with sharp edges that can easily puncture stretch film. Next, we’ll take a closer look at how you can use stretch film in combination with straps for certain situations.
Using Stretch Film in Combination With Strapping Products
For some loads, the right securement method isn’t stretch film vs straps; it’s a combination of both! Stretch film can be used to bundle various items onto a pallet, keeping them contained as a single load. If the load cannot be safely held together with stretch film alone, straps can be used to apply more compression and an added layer of safety to the final palletized load. One of the more common methods of combining stretch film with strapping products is to secure load pieces with straps, then apply stretch film for added protection. While this method can be slightly more expensive than using straps alone, many shippers find that the increased customer satisfaction and reduced rate of damaged products make up for the slight increase in cost per load. If you’re looking to find affordable stretch film, straps, and other strapping tools, Strapping-Products.com can help you get everything you need at competitive prices you won’t find anywhere else!
Affordable Stretch Film and Strapping Supplies Available at Strapping-Products.com
If you’re looking for affordable, high-quality stretch film, straps, and strapping tools, Strapping-Products.com is here to help. To get started and get some extra insights into the right straps and stretch films you need for your operations, give our team a call today at 888-803-8140.
