No matter the type of pallet load, the goal is straightforward: to create the most uniform shape possible. By creating a uniform shape, your products will be easier to bundle, stretch wrap, and strap together. However, getting nice clean edges and a perfectly shaped pallet isn't always feasible.
In many instances, items can jet out from the primary sections and cause load security concerns. Because of this, packaging experts have classified different types of pallet loads, which can help you decide the best stretch film for securing your pallet. Continue reading to learn more about the three types of pallet loads and the most suitable stretch wrap material for each.
A-Types of Pallet Loads Are the Easiest to Stretch Wrap
The first type of pallet load is A. These boast almost perfect dimensions with a neat uniform shape. As the loads that are easiest to wrap, Type A pallet loads are made up of cartons or boxes all the same size.
All of the packages are lined up where there are very little gaps from the base of the load to the edge of the pallet. The consistent vertical and horizontal edges make strapping and wrapping easier because fewer areas exist that can potentially tear or damage the stretch film.
Which Type of Film Works for A Types of Pallet Loads
If you are wrapping Type A loads, you're in luck. These are the easiest pallets to wrap and will work suitably with lightweight strapping materials or lower gauges of stretch film.
B-Types of Pallet Loads Are More Difficult to Stretch Wrap
While Type A loads are the easiest to wrap, B-Type of pallet loads are the second easiest. As you can imagine, B pallet loads are not as uniform as type A loads. However, B-Types of pallet loads are relatively even in shape. For instance, the B-Type load may have a base larger than the pallet size. This can make it harder to wrap.
B-Type loads are more likely to have jagged and extruding edges, which creates more puncture points for the stretch wrap. These types of loads must be strategically stacked to simplify the stretch wrapping process.
Which Type of Film Works for B-Types of Pallet Loads
Due to the irregularity of B-Types of pallets, you will typically need a stretch film of a higher gauge. The standard stretch wrap wouldn't be most ideal for B-Types of pallet loads due to chances of a puncture.
C-Types of Pallet Loads Are the Most Difficult to Stretch Wrap
As the most difficult type of pallet load to wrap, C-Types are the least uniform in shape. These loads are riddled with sections where sharp edges or irregular edges deviate from the overall shape. The irregularity of the load makes it much more difficult to secure and increases the potential of the stretch film tearing.
Type-C pallet loads will vary from pallet to pallet, and no two will ever have the same horizontal or vertical edge profiles. In addition, a uniform load could be identified as C-Type if it has poor weight distribution, is very light, or extremely heavy, which could make it very unstable. These difficult-to-handle loads usually require special attention to wrap without causing the pallet to collapse.
Which Type of Film Works for C-Types of Pallet Loads
C-Types of pallets will require the most reliable, strongest stretch film to protect the shipment throughout the rigors of transportation and storage.
Choosing the Right Stretch Wrap Thickness
Choosing the right stretch wrap gauge or thickness can be difficult, but the experts at AAA Polymer can help make it easier. We offer a wide selection of different stretch wraps and stretch films. Our experienced professionals can help guide you to the best solution — including blown vs cast film and the most ideal gauge. Let's look at the most common stretch wrap gauges and how each is typically used.
Got Questions? Contact AAA Polymer
When it comes to choosing the best gauge of stretch wrap for your pallet load, it's imperative to get it right. And the experts at AAA Polymer can help you confidently make the best decision.
Contact AAA Polymer today.