What Is Shrink Film?
Shrink film is applied loosely around a product and then exposed to heat. The film shrinks tightly around the item, creating a protective and attractive package.
Common uses include:
- Retail packaging
- Multipacks
- Food packaging
- Pharmaceuticals
What Is Stretch Film?
Stretch film is stretched around palletized products to stabilize loads during transportation.
Common uses include:
- Warehouse operations
- Distribution centers
- Pallet shipping
Key Differences
| Feature | Shrink Film | Stretch Film |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Required | Yes | No |
| Retail Appearance | Excellent | Poor |
| Pallet Stabilization | Limited | Excellent |
| Product Security | High | High |
| Branding Potential | High | Low |
Which Should You Choose?
Use shrink film for individual products and retail presentation.
Use stretch film for pallet protection and transportation.
Many companies use both materials throughout their packaging operation.
