PACKAGING O
ne area under scrutiny is stretch wrapping, a process that can significantly affect operational costs. Many organisations can
approach stretch wrapping with a focus on material price rather than overall
performance. Historically, stretch film has often been purchased on a simple cost-per- tonne basis. However, the cheapest film to buy is not
necessarily the most cost-effective film to use. Businesses need to look at the bigger picture, how the film performs, how much is being consumed, how stable the loads are and whether the wrapping process itself is operating efficiently. This broader view is becoming increasingly
important as logistics operations face rising material costs alongside pressure to reduce waste and improve sustainability.
LOOKING BEYOND THE FILM ITSELF A common misconception in stretch wrapping operations is that performance issues are caused by the film itself. The cause can often lie elsewhere, stemming from machine settings, inconsistent application, or simply using the wrong wrapping for the load. Stretch wrapping is influenced by
several factors. Load shape, pallet stability, transport conditions, machine capability and film specification all contribute to overall performance. For example, relatively small adjustments to tension settings or pre- stretch ratios can influence consumption and containment. Every pallet behaves differently, so one solution may not work universally across operations. This is why assessing the complete process rather than focusing on a single component is important.
EFFICIENCY IS ABOUT CONSISTENCY For many companies, reducing stretch film usage is an obvious target. However, focusing on reducing material consumption can sometimes create new challenges. A poorly wrapped pallet can result in damaged goods and transport inefficiencies, costs that can outweigh any savings achieved on film purchasing. Businesses are encouraged to adopt a
data-led approach that evaluates the total cost of wrapping operations, including film usage, machine performance, load stability and transit protection. Often, relatively small operational changes can deliver significant performance improvements and material reductions.
SUSTAINABILITY PRESSURES Environmental considerations are also playing a growing role in stretch wrapping strategies, particularly following the introduction of the Plastic Packaging Tax. Many businesses are now exploring films
containing recycled material to reduce tax liabilities and support sustainability targets. While recycled-content films can offer environmental advantages, performance
RETHINKING STRETCH WRAPPING: WHY SMARTER FILM USAGE IS BECOMING ESSENTIAL FOR MODERN WAREHOUSING
By David Hicklin, Technical Sales Manager, Antalis Packaging
As supply chains become increasingly cost-sensitive and sustainability targets continue to tighten, businesses are reassessing packaging processes to identify where efficiencies can genuinely be achieved
remains critical. If a film fails to deliver the required containment or stretch capability, businesses may end up using more material, undermining the intended sustainability benefits. The key is selecting the most appropriate
film for the specific application. In some operations, a recycled-content film
may work perfectly. In others, a virgin film may provide better yield and containment performance.
MACHINE SETTINGS, MAINTENANCE AND EXPERTISE As wrapping operations become more sophisticated, machinery is playing an increasingly important role in efficiency. Modern pre-stretch systems, for example, can dramatically improve film yield when properly configured and maintained. It is not uncommon to find machines
operating below optimal settings, where relatively straightforward adjustments or servicing could unlock improvements without requiring any changes to the film. This is why many businesses are now seeking
18 MAY 2026 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
more consultative support when reviewing their stretch wrapping operations. Rather than just supplying film, packaging specialists can work alongside businesses to assess challenges, test alternatives and identify areas for improvement. This collaborative approach between
customers and film suppliers enables businesses to make informed decisions based on real data and performance testing.
Antalis
www.antalis.co.uk
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