Things to Consider When Purchasing Your First Pallet Wrapping Machine

Wrapping a pallet efficiently and securely in the world of modern logistics and warehousing is a task that must be completed properly. A pallet-wrapping machine can be an excellent investment and an absolute game changer, particularly if you have many pallets to wrap. Using a machine, known for its ability to wrap pallets with precision and accuracy, will ensure that your pallets are wrapped correctly and quickly, saving valuable time and manpower. In fact, a pallet wrap machine will wrap the same amount of pallets in one hour as three people could by hand. This is a huge time saver.

We understand that before you invest in a big piece of machinery, there are several key factors that you need to consider. In this article, we will delve into the essential elements that should guide your decision-making process and help you make a choice that is aligned with your needs, objectives and budget.

What is a pallet wrapping machine?

There are different types of pallet wrapping machines to choose from depending on your needs but each one ensures a fast, efficient service to ensure that pallets are wrapped securely and with complete uniformity. Not only does this ensure that your loads reach their destination in excellent condition, but it also gives a good impression of your company when your pallets are wrapped securely and neatly.

Selecting a pallet wrapping machine for your needs

There are two main types of stretch wrap machines available to suit your needs and each one has its advantages. These include:

Speed turntable wrapping machine

This works by positioning the loaded pallet on top of the turntable provided. The turntable then rotates to dispense the stretch film, attached to a vertical mast which can move up and down if required. This is an ideal machine for standard pallet loads and accounts for 8 out of 10 pallet wrap machines sold.

Rotary arm wrapping machine

This pallet wrap machine does not require the pallet to be moved before it is wrapped and is designed for demanding applications. If you regularly wrap awkwardly sized or fragile loads that are difficult to move before the load has been secured, a rotary arm wrapping machine may be the right choice for you. It utilises an overhead arm that rotates around the load to apply the stretch film.

Read about the differences between blown and cast stretch wrap and its uses. 

Key features

There are some key features that either come as standard or can be added to your pallet wrapping machine. These include:

• Easy-to-use control panel
• Film dispensers with dust and rain protection
• Ramp to load pallets
• Electric pre-stretching functions

Automatic or semi-automatic?

Both are similar but there are some differences that could sway your decision depending on your working conditions.

Semi-automatic stretch wrapping machines

Most semi-automatic stretch wrapping machines will require an operator to ensure their proper and safe operation. Such tasks might include initiating the wrapping cycle by pressing a start button or cutting the film at the end of the process.

This type of stretch wrapping machine is particularly well-suited for warehouses with lower output volumes.

Automatic stretch wrapping machines

Automatic stretch wrapping machines are ideally suited for packaging operations with high volumes, in warehouses that operate at high speeds. Fully automatic stretch wrapping machines handle the entire wrapping process from beginning to end with no intervention needed.

Benefits of using a pallet wrapping machine

If you are considering purchasing a pallet wrapping machine, you may be wondering what the benefits of using one are. They include:

• Reduction in costs - Cut down on human resources and use less film than you would if you were wrapping by hand.
• Security - Ensure that your pallets are wrapped as tightly and securely as possible with the use of a machine. Guarantee that the tension and stretch will be correct on every pallet.
• Efficiency - Eliminate the risk of human error and potential work-based accidents, thus improving work conditions for staff.
• Speed of wrapping - Consider the number of pallets your business will wrap in a day. Pallet wrap machines are capable of wrapping between 25 and 180 pallets in one hour depending on which model you choose.

Other things to consider

As well as the features of your pallet wrapping machine, you also need to consider factors surrounding your business and budget to decide whether a pallet wrapping machine is right for you. Some things to consider include:

• Space - Ensure you have the measurements of the pallet wrapping machine before you purchase it. Will it fit comfortably in the space you have? Will you still have room to manoeuvre around it and have the space you need for other essentials and people?
• Budget - Make sure that your budget allows for the additional cost of purchasing and operating a pallet wrapping machine. This may not affect your budget at all as you will be able to cut down the time taken to wrap pallets and the human resources required to wrap the pallet.
• What you are wrapping - Consider what products you are wrapping. Would your company benefit from a pallet wrapping machine?
• Business growth - Estimate how much your business will have grown in the next five years and choose a wrapping system that can meet future demands, not just provide a service for the present moment.

What is the cost of a pallet wrapping machine?

The cost of pallet wrapping machines varies depending on which one you are looking to purchase. A semi-automatic pallet wrapping machine varies from approximately £4,000 to £6,000, whilst a fully automatic one ranges from approximately £6,000-£9,000.

Buy a high-quality machine pallet wrap from Polyflex

Polyflex stands as a leading supplier of polythene packaging solutions. Our dedicated team brings together over five decades of unrivalled expertise in the industry. We cater to a wide array of diverse business sectors, consistently delivering solutions to meet specific requirements.

If you would like to talk to us about your polythene packaging requirements, contact us today.