Top 5 Tips For Packing Parcels Using Shrink Wrap

June 20, 2023

Shipping parcels can be a challenging task, especially when you want to ensure that the contents of your package arrive in perfect condition. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your items is by using shrink wrap.

With the rapid growth of the shipping industry, around 829 million parcels were delivered in the Australian courier, express, and parcel (CEP) market in 2021 alone. This number highlights the importance of effective packaging methods to protect items during transit or storage and get the best packaging supplies Melbourne.

In this article, we’ll share the top five tips for packing parcels using shrink wrap, whether you’re a commercial or private shipper.

What Is Shrink Wrap Used For?

Shrink wrap is a plastic film that can be wrapped around an item and heated, causing it to shrink and tightly conform to the shape of the package. This creates a secure protective barrier that helps prevent damage from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors.

Shrink wrap is used in various ways, like the following:

• Palletised Shipping: Shrink wrap secures and protects pallets of goods during transport, making handling easier.
• Individual Items: Shrink wrap is used for fragile or damage-prone items, providing extra security during shipping.
• Food And Beverage Packaging: Shrink wrap maintains freshness and security and allows for easy stacking and storage of food and beverage products.
• Electronics Packaging: Shrink wrap protects electronics during transit and simplifies display and sales.
• Other Applications: Shrink wraps can also be useful for securing construction materials, bundling cables, and labelling products.

As a packaging material, shrink wraps are effective and versatile. They’re a popular material used in various packaging applications.

Why Use Shrink Wraps?

Shrink wraps offer many benefits for shippers, like the following:

• Protection: Shrink wrap provides excellent protection for goods during transit. It can help prevent moisture, dust, and other environmental damage.
• Security: Shrink wrap can also help deter theft and tampering. It makes it more difficult for people to open and access the contents of a parcel.
• Efficiency: Shrink wrap can help improve efficiency in the shipping process. It can help speed up the loading and unloading of goods and make it easier to handle and transport parcels.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Shrink wrap is a cost-effective way to package goods for shipping. It is relatively inexpensive and can be used to package a wide variety of products.

So, how do you ensure that you’re using shrink wraps efficiently?

Below are a few tips:

1. Choose The Right Type Of Shrink Wrap

The type of shrink wrap you choose will depend on the size and nature of the items you’re shipping. Several different types of shrink wrap are available, each with unique properties and applications.

Here are some common types of shrink wrap:

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Shrink Wrap: Strong, durable, moisture-resistant wrap for food, electronics, and sensitive items.
• Polyethylene (PE) Shrink Wrap: Flexible, lightweight, and affordable wrap for bulk items like newspapers or magazines.
• Polyolefin (POF) Shrink Wrap: Clear, recyclable, eco-friendly packaging for displaying food, beverages, and other products.

The type of shrink wrap that suits your needs depends on your specific product requirements. For strong and durable protection against the elements, PVC shrink wrap is ideal. If you want a cost-effective, flexible, and lightweight option, PE shrink wrap is perfect. POF shrink wrap is a good fit for a clear and transparent wrap that showcases your product.

2. Prepare Your Parcel For Shrink Wrapping

Prepare your items properly before you begin the shrink-wrapping process. Preparation includes cleaning the surface of your items to remove any dirt or debris and securing any loose parts or components. Consider adding additional padding or cushioning materials, such as bubble wrap or foam, to protect your items during transit.

3. Properly Apply Shrink Wrap

Apply shrink wrap correctly to ensure it provides the maximum level of protection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use shrink wrap for a parcel:

• Cut a piece of shrink wrap large enough to cover your entire item.
• Place your item in the centre of the shrink wrap and fold the edges over, making sure to cover all sides of the item.
• Use a heat gun or a shrink wrap machine to apply heat evenly across the surface of the shrink wrap. Keep the heat source moving to avoid burning or melting the plastic.
• As the shrink wrap shrinks, use your hands or a smoothing tool to press out any air bubbles or wrinkles, ensuring a tight and secure fit.

Allow the shrink wrap to cool and harden before handling your parcel.

4. Use Shrink Wrap Packaging Accessories

There are several accessories that can make the shrink-wrapping process easier and more efficient. These include heat guns, shrink-wrap machines, and sealing tools. A heat gun is a handheld device that emits hot air, allowing you to quickly and easily shrink the plastic film.

Shrink wrap machines, on the other hand, automate the process by applying heat and sealing the film simultaneously. These machines can be particularly useful for commercial shippers who need to package large quantities of parcels quickly.

5. Inspect And Test Your Shrink-Wrapped Parcel

After you’ve completed the shrink-wrapping process, inspect your parcel to ensure that the shrink wrap has been applied correctly and securely. Check for any tears, holes, or weak spots in the film. Make sure all edges and seams are properly sealed. Shake or press on the parcel gently to test the stability of the shrink wrap and ensure that your items are protected from movement and damage.

Conclusion

Packing parcels with shrink wrap is an effective way to protect your items during shipping and storage. By following these tips, you can ensure that your parcels are securely wrapped and ready for transit. Whether you’re a commercial or private shipper, using shrink wrap can help you deliver your goods in perfect condition every time.