The shrink packaging material belongs to a category of polymer plastic wrap, comprising of different types of plastics like polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyolefin depending on the composition of the material. It is available in different sizes, shapes, and shrink ratios.
Shrink wrap, due to its high flexibility to retain any shape during the packaging process, is used as primary packaging for finished goods. As it is a cost-effective method to maintain the unitization of products, increase the shelf life of products, it is one of the most popular methods of packaging preferred by most manufacturers.
Advantages Of Shrink Wrap Packaging
· Affordable And Cost-Effective
Shrink wrap packaging is affordable as it requires two things: heat and plastic wrap. Depending on the application method and type of wrap used, the prices would vary but when compared to other packaging materials it is still cost-effective. It is designed to minimise space and keep products bundled together without the use of additional materials like boxes or crates. This helps in saving money both in storage and transport. The tighter the containment the more usable square footage is available for transportation. It is versatile to wrap a variety of cargo which can range from normal shaped to odd and huge dimension cargo, thus avoiding the need for custom packaging. It is a more economical packaging material when compared to a lot of other products available in the market.
· Protection
Cargo requires protection during shipping and transportation. Shrink wrap forms a tight seal covering the cargo within. Few types of shrink wrap even come with UV protection, fire retardant, anti-rust, antimicrobial features to keep products safe from the sun’s harmful rays, fire, weather, and microbes respectively. As shrink wrap is made from strong, durable plastic, it is difficult to tear or puncture. It also does not become brittle or weaken when exposed to extreme weather conditions and it does not slacken nor droop, ensuring more security.
· Prevents Theft And Tampering
Cargo tampering, a major problem is a cause of growing concern as it affects the company’s reputation and quality of cargo. Tampering of the cargo will be difficult as shrink wrap packaging both seals and holds their shape once applied to the cargo. Tamper evident shrink wrap, a form of shrink wrap changes colour when the material is cut or stretched. This provides additional security to prevent tampering with cargo. As shrink wrap is incredibly durable and holds its shape well, any tampering is obvious upon inspection and can help to prevent compromised cargo from reaching the customers.
Shrink wrap packaging can be designed with colours, words, logos, and pictures, thus helping to make a brand more visible in the market. It also helps to preserve and extend the shelf life of food products especially through the usage of a food-grade shrink wrap.
