Stretch Wrapper vs. Manual Wrapping: Which is Right for Your Business?

When it comes to keeping pallet loads secure during shipping or storage, businesses often face a choice: wrapping by hand or using an automated stretch wrapper machine. Both approaches have their advantages, but the optimal solution really hinges on the scale of your operations, the speed you need, and your available funds.

If you've witnessed someone on your team circling a pallet repeatedly with a roll of stretch film, you understand firsthand the time and potential for uneven wrapping that comes with manual methods. More critical is an unsecure load, and potential damage, which uneven or loose wrapping leads to. Conversely, purchasing a stretch wrapper is a significant investment. So, how do you determine the most suitable option for your needs?

Let's take a closer look.

Manual Wrapping: The Basics

Manual wrapping is exactly what it sounds like. A person wraps film around a pallet by hand, usually using a handheld dispenser. It’s common in smaller operations that don’t ship large volumes daily.

Pros of Manual Wrapping:

• Low upfront cost

• No special equipment needed

• Easy to implement for small teams

Cons of Manual Wrapping:

• Labor-intensive

• Inconsistent tension and coverage

• Higher risk of product damage during transit

• Physically demanding for workers

For businesses with limited shipments or very irregular loads, manual wrapping can get the job done. But as soon as volume increases, the limitations start to show.

Stretch Wrappers: The Upgrade

A stretch wrapper automates the wrapping process, rotating the load or the film roll to evenly secure the pallet with consistent tension. There are semi-automatic and fully automatic models to match different levels of production.

Pros of Stretch Wrappers:

• Fast, consistent wrapping

• Lower labor costs over time

• Improved load stability

• Less film waste

Cons of Stretch Wrappers:

• Higher initial investment

• Requires space and maintenance

• May need operator training

For mid-size to large operations, the speed and consistency of a stretch wrapper can quickly justify the cost. What you save in labor and material waste often pays for the machine over time.

What to Consider Before You Decide

Ask yourself a few key questions:

• How many pallets do you wrap per day?

• Are your loads consistent in size and shape?

• Do you have space for a machine?

• How important is reducing film waste or labor strain?

If you’re only wrapping a few pallets a week, manual might still make sense. But if your team spends hours each day wrapping by hand, it may be time to consider an automated solution.

Wrapping It Up

Both options can be effective, but they serve different needs. Manual wrapping works for low-volume, occasional use. A stretch wrapper is ideal for high-volume operations that need speed, safety, and consistency.

Not sure what’s right for your operation?

Talk to a packaging specialist at InkJet, Inc. We’ll help you choose the strapping solution that fits your volume, protects your products, and saves you money in the long run.