Stretch film
Stretch film gauge guide: hand wrap, machine wrap, and pre-stretch
Stretch film (also called pallet wrap) is sold by gauge - the thickness of the film. Heavier gauge holds more weight, but pre-stretched films can hit the same load stability with less material. The right film comes down to load weight, application method, and how you handle stretch in the warehouse.
Use the chart below to map common pallet types to a starting gauge.
Stretch film gauge cheat sheet
| Gauge | Approx mil | Best for | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37 ga | 0.37 mil pre-stretch | Light pallet loads under 800 lb, low cost per pallet | 37 ga -> |
| 47 ga | 0.47 mil pre-stretch | Light to mid loads, hand wrap applications under 1,200 lb | 47 ga -> |
| 63 ga | 0.63 mil cast | Standard hand wrap for general parcel and mid-weight loads | 63 ga -> |
| 70 ga | 0.70 mil cast or blown | Mid-weight pallets up to ~1,800 lb with general handling | 70 ga -> |
| 80 ga | 0.80 mil cast | Most common all-purpose hand wrap, mixed loads up to ~2,200 lb | 80 ga -> |
| 90 ga | 0.90 mil cast or blown | Heavier loads, sharp corners, mid-volume warehouse use | 90 ga -> |
| 100-150 ga | 1.0 to 1.5 mil | Heavy pallets 2,500+ lb, machine wrap, irregular freight | 100 ga -> |
Stretch film FAQ
Hand wrap or machine wrap?
Hand wrap makes sense under ~30 pallets per day. Above that, a wrapping machine pays back in labor and film cost; machine film is also pre-stretched for higher yield per roll.
Cast vs blown?
Cast film is clearer, quieter to unwind, and the most common general-purpose film. Blown film offers higher tear and puncture resistance for sharp or heavy loads, with a louder unwind and a slight haze.
What is pre-stretched film?
Pre-stretched film has been mechanically stretched at the factory. It uses less material per pallet, reduces operator fatigue, and often hits the same load stability as a heavier non-stretched gauge.
Compare stretch film options
Hand wrap vs machine wrap and when each one earns its keep.