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Alternatives to spiral stretch wrapping

Insights from the updated 2013 End-of-line Packaging Equipment Playbook...

 

Stretch wrapping is a popular method of unitizing cases or bags for shipment. However, it is not the only choice. Making the right choice of pallet packaging method involves a thorough analysis of many parameters that influence not only the daily operating costs, but also the entire distribution chain performance. Cost-effective alternatives can wring significant savings out of end-of-line operations. When product leaves the production facility, it is at its highest value-added state, and ideally should arrive at the customer’s facility in the same condition.
In addition to manual strapping and banding, here are some other automated or semi- automated alternatives to stretch wrapping worth considering:
 
Cohesive/adhesive spray
A water-based cohesive/adhesive is sprayed onto boxes or bags and keeps them in place without wrap, corner protectors, or tear sheets. The material exhibits very high shear strength, yet when pulled straight up, pieces easily come apart again. The ideal application for this approach is boxes or industrial bags for food, beverages, chemicals, and edible animal feed. Four reasons to consider this method over stretch wrap:
• Reduced materials costs, by getting rid of wrap, corners, and slip sheets.

• Sustainability: spray is organic and has no effect on recyclability of bags or boxes.
• Even packagers who must use stretch wrap, per the requirements of retail customers such as Walmart and Costco, can reduce their film use by up to 60% and add stability by spraying the pallet load first. Even with the added costs of the adhesive and applicator, the net overall spend is less, according to cohesive suppliers.
 
Stretch hooding
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