Shrink-wrapped products in trays, on pads, or simply bundled in polyethylene film are a cost effective and sustainable way to transport palletized consumer products through the distribution network. Shrink wrapping offers significantly lower material costs by reducing or eliminating the need for higher priced corrugated board. Film in this application is a more sustainable choice than corrugated because less material is sourced. Rolls of film take up a smaller amount of room in over-the-road trailers, offering savings on transportation, and film rolls conserve warehouse space compared to corrugated shipping cases. Retailers appreciate the easier handling of films. And, polyethylene film is every bit as recyclable as corrugated, another plus in terms of sustainability. In an era demanding economical packaging that uses less material and is recyclable, packaging utilizing polyethylene shrink film for multipacks makes sense.
Buying tip one: Partner with a shrink wrap original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to test pallet loads of multipacks in the distribution network.