When it comes to shipping goods, ensuring that your pallets are wrapped correctly is essential for a smooth and safe transportation process, and understanding the proper way to wrap pallets can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to wrap a pallet correctly, along with the importance of wrapping pallets accurately, so you can achieve optimal efficiency and security of your packaging processes.

What is pallet wrap?

Pallet wrap, also known as stretch film or shrink wrap, is an essential material used in the packaging and shipping industries for securing and protecting goods during transit and when in storage. It’s a highly stretchable plastic film that is usually made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or biodegradable alternatives.

Available in various thicknesses, widths, and stretch capacities, it offers excellent durability, flexibility, and resistance. When wrapped tightly around goods, it creates a protective barrier against dust, moisture, and other contaminants that could compromise the integrity of the products during transportation.

Pallet wrap has become invaluable for various industries, with some of the most notable being:

• Warehousing and distribution - used to combine multiple boxes, packages, or items onto one single pallet

• Manufacturing and production facilities - used to bundle raw materials, finished goods and components for storage and transportation

• Food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and electronics - ventilated wraps are used for perishable goods or anti-sac wraps for sensitive electronic components for example

Why do pallets need to be wrapped?

There are many reasons why pallets need to be wrapped and doing so provides numerous benefits for businesses. For example, wrapping pallets correctly ensures the safety and integrity of goods during transit and handling. With proper wrapping, it keeps all items on the pallet together, preventing them from shifting or falling, which could lead to damage, delays, or safety hazards.

As we’ve briefly mentioned, wrapping pallets also provides a protective barrier against external elements, such as dust, moisture, and even pests. This safeguards the quality of the products, which is particularly important for sensitive goods, when items are stored outside, or transported over long distances.

By keeping your items on the pallet securely wrapped, you can maintain the integrity and quality of your products, as well as minimise the number of safety hazards posed to workers.

Steps on how to wrap a pallet

Wrapping a pallet accurately may seem straightforward, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure maximum efficiency. Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to wrap a pallet correctly, helping you to minimise damage and risks to your items.

Step 1: Select your pallet

Before you begin wrapping, you should select a sturdy pallet that can withstand the weight of your goods and endure transportation. A pallet in poor condition, with broken boards, or protruding nails, could compromise the strength of the entire load and lead to instability and potential damage.

You should also make sure the pallet size is appropriate for your goods. If you use a pallet that is too small, your items will overhang and increase the risk of damage during handling. Equally, if you opt for a pallet that is too big, it can be unnecessarily expensive and inefficient.

Step 2: Stack your goods

Proper stacking of your goods is vital for ensuring stability and protection during pallet wrapping. You should keep in mind the shape, size, and weight of your products and stack heavier items at the bottom to create a stable base. If you’re stacking boxes, ensure they’re properly sealed. Remember, if you’re stacking fragile items, you may need to use extra padding and protective materials to help prevent damage during transit. 

Step 3: Attach the wrap

Before you attach your wrap, make sure you opt for a high-quality wrap that offers good resistance and cling. There are different types of pallet wraps available that come in varying thickness and stretch capabilities. Choosing the right wrap will depend on the weight and nature of your goods and the transport conditions they’ll be subject to. If you’re unsure about which type of pallet wrap you need, you can speak to one of our experts for guidance.

A good starting point for pallet wrapping is to secure the wrap to the edge of your pallet, ensuring a firm grip to prevent unraveling. A common wrapping method is to wrap your film around a corner of the pallet several times so it creates a secure anchor point. 

When you attach the wrap, leave a little bit of film extending from your starting point. This excess film will be used to further secure the wrap after you circulate the pallet.

Step 4: Wrap from the base and work up

Once you’ve secured your wrap, you can begin wrapping from the base of the pallet. It’s wise to wrap around this area three or four times to create a solid foundation. As you work your way up, make sure the film is tight and secure, and overlap each layer by at least 50% to create a strong and stable outer layer. Be wary of gaps and pay close attention to corners and edges, adding extra layers if needed. You may want to consider using dispensers or a pallet wrapping machine as these can significantly help with the efficiency and ease of wrapping pallets.

When you reach the top of your load, continue wrapping for a few more times to create a secure top layer. Then, tuck the film under the top layer or secure it using a tape gun or a heat gun if you’re shrink wrapping pallets to prevent it from unraveling during transport.

Step 5: Test the load stability

The final step is to test the load stability to make sure you minimise the risk of any accidents or damage occurring during handling and transportation. It’s a simple check which involves applying gentle pressure to various points of the load. Make sure all of the goods are secure and don’t shift or move within the wrap, paying particular attention to the top and corners.

If you do notice any signs of instability, add extra layers of wrap to enhance the strength of that area. You should also visually inspect the pallet for any tripping hazards, such as loose or trailing ends of the wrap.

Speak to us for more expert advice

It's clear to see that wrapping a pallet correctly is crucial for your products and your workers safety when handled, during transportation, and when in storage. We hope our guide on how to wrap a pallet correctly helps you optimise your packaging processes effectively.

If you're unsure about the wrapping process or need expert advice on packaging materials, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today. We’re on hand to answer any questions you may have and provide you with a secure and cost-effective solution for your packaging needs.

Wrapping pallets FAQs

What is the difference between stretch wrap and shrink wrap?

Stretch wrap is a stretchable plastic film that clings to itself and requires no heat for application. Shrink wrap on the other hand, shrinks tightly around the products when heat is applied, providing a tamper-resistant seal. While both come in different sizes, their applications differ based on the level of protection and security needed.

Are there different methods for wrapping pallets based on the type of products being shipped?

Yes, the type of wrap and method used often depend on the product type and packaging. Different applications might require specialised wraps, like vented wrap for perishable goods or anti-static wrap for electronics for example. The wrapping method should also adapt to the fragility and weight distribution of the products. If you’re unsure, speak to one of our packaging experts who can advise you.

Are there any safety precautions to consider while wrapping a pallet?

Securely wrapping a pallet is important to avoid injuries during handling. You should also wear appropriate safety gear, like gloves, to protect your hands from sharp edges. Always be mindful of the stability of the pallet while wrapping to prevent falls or risk of damage.