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The Top 10 Benefits of Using Shrink Wrap

14 January 2019

As a UK leading supplier of shrink wrap machines, Liberty Packaging Systems know there are many benefits to using shrink wrap ranging from aesthetics to practical purposes and the fact it is used globally around the world supports this. We have listed some of the benefits below but firstly – what is shrink wrap?

As a UK leading supplier of shrink wrap machines, Liberty Packaging Systems know there are many benefits to using shrink wrap ranging from aesthetics to practical purposes and the fact it is used globally around the world supports this.

We have listed some of the benefits below but firstly – what is shrink wrap? Shrink wrap is a well known lightweight and environmentally friendly plastic film used for packaging contents, whereby a sheet made from plastic or 'polyolefin' is wrapped fully around an item by a shrink wrap machine.

With applied heat from the shrink wrap machine the plastic 'shrinks' around the enclosed item, wrapping it tightly and neatly.

Top 10 benefits of using shrink wrap include:

1. Versatility – Wraps around any shape Before a shrink wrap machine applies heat, the shrink wrap film is soft and quiet, unlike crinkly PVC, and after the machine applies heat, the shrink film is soft to the touch, not brittle and rigid. This versatility is key, the ability to contain irregular or non-uniform shaped items at high speed.
2. Space Saving – Items can be wrapped together It utilizes space, crucial for large warehouses and mass storage, many items can be wrapped together - just think of the space saved by shrink wrapping drinks bottles rather than cardboard boxes of bottles.
3. Environmentally Friendly - 100% recyclable and has an LDPE rating of 4 It is now more environmentally friendly, as it is easily recyclable and is cheaper than alternatives such as carton or wrapping paper it also means it reduces packing costs by 50%.
4. Doesn’t discolour over time - It is more pliable than alternatives such as PVC, and does not become yellow or brittle with time.
5. Transparent, glossy finish Polyolefin’s clear transparent nature means products can be observed and checked without the need to unpack and reseal, saving valuable processing time. The glossy finish to it means it has a professional and attractive appearance, valuable for products requiring consumer pleasing.
6. Lightweight – Cheaper transportation It is also much lighter than alternative wrapping, which has knock on effects with regards to transportation and shipping costs. The benefits of shrink wrap means it is one of the most widely used wrapping materials globally.
7. Chemically Inert - No harmful chemicals It is chemically inert, contains no toxins or coloration, thus meaning it is perfect for wrapping consumable food and beverages, pharmaceuticals and body care products. No harmful vapours or nasty smells are released during the heat sealing process either.
8. Puncture-proof – 100% protection By design it also means it is completely sealed, with complete protection from the outside world. Puncture-proof protection, non-tearable and hardy. This keeps your products safe and sound, with any intrusion or opening easily identifiable.
9. Durability – Secure and stable It is very durable - once wrapped, the item is secure and stable and remains in perfect condition.
10. Waterproof – Protects against spillages Shrink wrap is waterproof! Items are protected from harsh weather or clumsy spillages, from accidental tears, bumps and knocks.

These positive traits of shrink wrap means it is an invaluable packaging source that is well used and competitive in nature. The benefits of shrink wrap mean it is a highly sought after packaging material that will only become more valuable in the future.

This makes a shrink wrap machine an ideal investment when looking to use shrink wrap for your packaging needs. A shrink wrap machine from Liberty Packaging Systems is the perfect companion to shrink wrap. If you would like to find out more about our shrink wrap machines or about the types of shrink wrap film we supply, pleases call us on 01992 460 111 or email info@libertypackagingsystems.co.uk.