FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS STRETCH FILM?

Stretch Film (also known as Stretch Wrap or Pallet Wrap) is a highly stretchable plastic film that is typically made of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). It is mostly used in the packaging/shipping industry to wrap around items to keep them secure and in place during shipment. This is an inexpensive solution to safely move product around or ship to a customer by keeping the items tightly bound.

In contrast, Shrink Wrap is applied loosely around an item and shrinks tightly with heat.

DO YOU MANUFACTURE CAST OR BLOWN STRETCH FILM?

At Hi-Tech Plastics, Inc. we produce Cast Stretch Film available in Standard and High Performance/One Side Cling (OSC) and specialize in additives such as color and UVI.

Cast Film is made via cast extrusion, is a clear wrap that clings well, has a quiet unwind, easy to stretch and has good puncture.

Blown Film is made via a blown bubble process, is cloudy and has a louder unwind.

WHAT IS THE CAST STRETCH FILM PROCESS?

Cast Stretch Film is manufactured using a cast extrusion process. The extruder is similar in concept to a large meat grinder… that is Hot! Resin beads are fed into the hopper and heated. The molted material then goes through a die becoming a flat sheet of stretch film, which is then made into the desired thickness or gauge. The sheets of plastic cool as they run through a series of chill rollers and are then slit/cut to the desired dimension.

WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS APPLICATIONS FOR STRETCH FILM?

Stretch Wrap is commonly used to hold boxes and product together on a pallet. Stretch Film plays a very important role during transportation, delivery and storage of products and can come in a variety of specialty films to accommodate an array of applications.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU MANUFACTURER?

We manufacture a full line of cast stretch film to meet your application needs including:

Machine and Hand Stretch Film –

  • Keeps your palletized products together during transit preventing damage or loss.
  • Our Machine and Hand Films are available in Standard or High-Performance Films.
  • Available in a variety of gauges, widths, lengths and a choice of 19 different colors.

Banding and Extended Core Stretch Films –

  • Banding stretch film is a superior cost-effective alternative to strapping tape or twine.
  • Extended core products come on a 1” inch core handle which simplifies stretch wrapping while saving money.
  • This is a perfect solution for wrapping small packages, bundling multiple boxes or wrapping a pallet full of items ready to ship.

WHY USE COLOR STRETCH FILM?

Colored Stretch Film offers a great solution for:

  • Reduces the risk of denied freight claims by identifying your loads as they leave the dock.
  • Conceals your items and limits visibility while increasing security and reducing potential tampering.
  • Easy product identification and inventory management.
  • Eye catching appeal, making your product stand out from the rest.

WHAT COLORS OF STRETCH WRAP DO YOU OFFER?

We manufacture Stretch Film in clear and offer a choice of 19 different colors.

Tints: Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Brown, Grey, Purple, Orange, Sky Blue

Opaque: Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Brown, Grey, Purple, Orange, Black and White

WHAT ARE THE BENNEFITS OF UVI FILM?

UVI (Ultra Violet Inhibitor) is used as an additive to extend the life of the film which is weakened by prolonged exposure to sunlight. UVI stretch film should be considered for shipments that will be stored outside. *Note – The UVI Film does not protect the product which is wrapped.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT GAUGE TO ORDER?

Our standard film Gauge (thicknesses) range from 50-200. Using the right thickness of stretch wrap will depend on the application. Please contact one of our Team Members to determine what is the best solution for your application.

WHERE DO YOU SHIP TO?

We ship across North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) and accommodate as low as a one (1) pallet minimum order – freight prepaid.

DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE LABELS?

Yes. Private Labels allow you to add a custom brand to YOUR product and make it unique for YOU. This is an excellent way to stay in front of your customer and a great way to remind them who to contact for a Re-Order.

IS YOUR STRECH FILM RECYLEABLE?

Stretch Film is recyclable. Be sure to contact your local recycling center to see if they accept soft plastics.