Stretch Film vs Shrink Wrap: Complete Comparison Guide

In the world of packaging, "stretch wrap" and "shrink wrap" are often used interchangeably, but they are two completely different products with distinct materials, applications, and purposes. This expert guide breaks down the differences.

Stretch Wrap (or Stretch Film)

This is what we specialize in at JFAM Packaging. Stretch wrap is a highly stretchable plastic film (LLDPE) that is wrapped around items to secure them.

Key Characteristics:

• Application: Applied by stretching. No heat is required.
• Primary Use: To bundle items together or to unitize a pallet of boxes.

Shrink Wrap (or Shrink Film)

Shrink wrap is a polymer plastic film that shrinks tightly over whatever it is covering when heat is applied.

Key Characteristics:

• Application: Loosely covered, then heat is applied via a heat gun.
• Primary Use: To create a tamper-proof, weatherproof seal around retail products.

Quick Comparison Table