How to specify stretch film beyond thickness

Thickness is an input to a stretch-film specification, not the result the buyer needs. The result is a stable pallet that reaches the destination with acceptable film consumption and without recurrent breaks. A useful technical comparison begins with the load profile, wrapper settings and route.

Describe the real load

Record pallet dimensions and weight, case or bag geometry, sharp edges, overhang and the tendency of the stack to settle. Note whether the load will sit outside, cross several climate zones or remain in a hot container. A uniform stack of cartons presents a different puncture and retention problem from polymer bags or irregular machine parts.

Match film to the equipment

State whether the roll is used by hand or machine. For a machine wrapper, provide carriage type, pre-stretch setting, film width, core and roll constraints, wrap pattern and current break points. The film must run at the actual operating speed, not just show attractive laboratory figures.

Set acceptance measures

• Compare kilograms of film per accepted pallet and wrapping time, not only price per roll.
• Record film breaks, corner damage and containment after handling.
• Check adhesion, tail retention and whether the load moves after a holding period.
• Keep wrapper settings and pallet type constant across trial materials.

Turn a trial into a purchase specification

Agree on a sample protocol and a tolerable range for dimensions, thickness and performance. Request batch documentation and check that commercial rolls perform like approved trial rolls. A very thin film can cost more overall if extra wraps or line stops erase the material saving; a thicker film is not automatically safer if the load is poorly wrapped.

For a focused Nexis quotation, send pallet photos, monthly pallet count, film and core dimensions, machine model, destination and storage conditions. Ask for a sample and a comparison of accepted pallets per roll before committing to a repeat export supply programme.