Frequently Asked Questions About Packaging

Stretch wrap is a flexible/stretchable plastic film that’s typically made of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). It’s used to wrap products to protect them during shipping and its elastic recovery helps to protect products. Stretch wrap is often used to secure products on shipping pallets, connecting them to each other as well as the pallet, which helps to reduce potential injury to shippers as well as protect from tampering and damage.

The two most common types of stretch wrap are cast stretch wrap and blown stretch wrap.

Cast Stretch Wrap is made via cast extrusion, which is a process during which a thermoplastic material is melted and run through a flat die. That material is placed on a chill roll where it re-solidifies. The process creates a durable, clear wrap that clings well, resists tearing, and stretches easily.

Blown Stretch Wrap is manufactured by heating resin vertically and blowing it into a bubble, which is transferred to rolls while cooling.

Because stretch film is made in several different thicknesses, widths, and types, the type of stretch film you will need for a specific package/shipment can differ. Our TeqSupply sales team will be able to determine the best product for you.

Cast stretch wrap is produced through a cast extrusion process, in which thermoplastic material is melted and continuously extruded through a flat die onto a chill roll to be quenched and re-solidified.

There are plenty of advantages of opaque stretch film, but the most popular reasons are:

1. Opaque stretch film conceals packages and detours pilferage
2. Protects from harmful UV rays
3. Lasts longer than clear stretch film when used outside for extended periods
4. Color coding available

Pre-stretch film is exactly as it sounds—wrap/film that has been stretched before being rolled onto a core. This makes it much easier to use in a hand wrap situation, as the stretching is already done. It also eliminates nicked edges and tearing.

There are a few differences between hot melt tape and acrylic tape.

Hot Melt Tape Benefits:

1. Excellent adhesion strength
2. Exceptional flexibility
3. Performs well in a number of applications
4. Often used to seal shipping and storage containers, cartons, and recycled boxes

Hot Melt Tape Drawbacks:

1. Can yellow over time

Acrylic Tape Benefits:

1. Holds up well in extreme temperatures
2. Maintains adhesion over long periods (ideal for packages that may end up in storage)
3. Not as likely to yellow
4. Often used to seal lightweight cartons

Acrylic Tape Drawbacks:

1. Doesn’t have as much initial “grab” as hot melt tape

Simply apply moisture to the bottom of the tape to activate the glue in water activated tape.

Most paper tapes in production today are biodegradable and recyclable.

TeqSupply has a wide variety of shipping labels available, as well as printable labels in both thermal transfer and direct thermal.