Stretch films are films that can be stretched in two directions, ideal for wrapping and securing palletized and irregular shaped loads. They offer strength, protection, reliability, economy and versatility. They are tear and puncture resistant. They prevent movement in transit and are available in clear and black films. They offer excellent clarity and transparency, and appropriate clingability.

Stretch Wrapping
In stretch wrapping, one or more flat films are placed under mechanical tension and wound helically around the item to be packaged. Depending upon the shape and weight of the package contents, the stretch material used should be PE or plasticized PVC film of a thickness of 0.01 to 0.05 mm, with stretch packaging only being suitable for light weight and firmly consolidated items. The ends of the film web are sealed or coated. The cargo unit is held together by the tension of the film. Sharp edged items should only be stretched wrapped using edge protectors, as the film may tear during the stretch operation. Stretch wrapping provides protection from dust and moisture in indoor storage only if an additional cargo cover sheet is used. It provides a physiological barrier to theft.

Applications
They are used in various applications. They are most suitable for use in deep freeze storage areas. They are used for automatic machines and hand pallet wrap for manual use. They are used in supermarkets and grocery stores, usually in conjunction with a plastic or fiber tray, to package individual cuts of fresh meat, poultry, fish and other food products. They are widely available as packaging pouches and packaging bags.

Meat packaging represents one of the largest applications for stretch films, as they have enough oxygen permeability to allow the formation of oxyhaemoglobin, which, gives the desired fresh red look to the meat.