What Gauge Stretch Wrap Do I Need?

The gauge of the stretch wrap refers to its thickness.  For example, 100ga = 0.001in, so a lower number means thinner film and a larger number means thicker film.  Some users measure their film in microns.  For easy conversion, 25mic = 100ga (though the actual conversion is 25.4mic = 100ga).  The only difference between gauge and microns is how one chooses to measure the thickness of the film.

There are three factors that need to be considered when asking what gauge stretch film you need:

1. What function is the stretch wrap serving?
2. What is the average unit weight?
3. What is the typical load configuration?

Stretch Wrap Function
There are two primary functions for stretch wrap - to hold things together, and to protect them.  There are some less common functions, such as in the moving industry where it's used to keep drawers and doors from opening on armoires, cabinets, dressers, etc.  An armoire

Average Unit Weight
In short,

Typical Load Configuration
There are three typical load configurations that need to be determined:

• A-Load
  Symmetric, even, cubed loads with no sharp corners or protrusions and clean vertical sides
• B-Load
  Less symmetric, of uneven nature, irregular vertical sides, slight puncture potential
• C-Load
  Of no symmetry, very uneven, high puncture potential, multiple corners and edges

For more information on stretch wrap film please visit: www.stretchwrapsupply.com

Industry Specific Uses for Poly Bags

Poly bags come in many sizes, weights, and styles.  Their uses range from the mundane, such as holding loose parts like nuts and bolts, to more specific functions that are often missed.  This post will help identify some specific uses of poly bags other than in industrial settings.

Poly Bags for Photography, Art, Books and other Printed Materials
Poly bags come in many stock sizes, and there is one to suit every standard size photograph or piece of art.  It is recommended to order bags that are at least 1" wider and longer than is the photo or piece of unframed art.  If the art is framed, then you'll need the bag to be even larger than the art.

While polypropylene bags are clearer and crisper than polyethylene bags, they are not the best choice for art or any printed material, particularly when it comes to long-term storage.  As an inert substance, polypropylene is less susceptible to mold, mildew and discolorations.  It also translucent, as opposed to transparent, which means less light gets through to potentially damage the contents.  Last, polyethylene has a lower static charge, which means it will attract much less dirt, dust and other foreign elements which could harm your product.

Whether it's short term storage for photographs or archival storage for books, magazines, comics, etc, there are stock poly bags that will meet your needs.

Poly Bags for Furniture Covers and for Moving Companies
There are many stock poly bags that are designed to fit furniture and mattresses.  The difference between a designated furniture bag and a large poly bag is that the furniture bag opens to the side.  They are also sized to fit chairs, love seats and couches of common sizes.  Most designated furniture bags are 1mil thick.  There are also a wide variety of standard, gusseted poly bags that can also be used as furniture covers, and they are available in multiple thicknesses.

Mattress bags are designed to fit all common size mattresses and are vented on both sides.  These will protect your mattresses in transit or in storage.

For professional movers, reclosable poly bags can be helpful for items that require being disassembled and later reassembled.  There are clear poly bags with white block that allow easy-to-read writing and will provide a safe place to put nuts, bolts, and other pieces that a furniture item may require.

Plastic Poly Sheeting is also available for larger items.