Stretch Wrap Machine Selection Tips

When selecting a stretch wrap machine, there are three specific things to look for: the number of loads the machine can do per hour, whether or not the machine is a manual or an automatic, and the space the machine takes up.  Efficiency and size are the most important, although having a machine with the ability to “set it and leave” has its advantages.  A slow, lumbering machine lengthens packaging times and reduces productivity.  Furthermore, a large machine is not feasible for more compact spaces.  Hence, selecting a machine that fits both the needs of the user and the budget of the user are the two main keys.

Many automatic stretch wrap machines cost more, because you’re paying for the automation.  Automatic machines can cost £4,000 or more, but they have the advantage in that they can wrap more loads per hour than manual or even most semi-automatic machines.  This means you don’t have to have someone constantly operating the machine, and productivity increases.  Also, keep in mind that you have to pay for maintenance on the machine just in case something unfortunate happens.  Automated systems tend to have more things that can go wrong with them.

In addition to cost, consider the size of the machine.  For smaller businesses with smaller warehouses or no warehouse at all this is a major concern.  There are some very efficient larger machines, but when there’s a space crunch a question must be answered.  Will I, as a small business owner, be willing to give up some efficiency in the name of space?  The answer won’t always be “yes” but it cannot be a flat out “no” either.  Smaller stretch wrap machines tend to be semi-automatic, but not as efficient as others with the similar features.  Smaller machines may also be manually powered, something not seen very often in larger machines.  Also, smaller machines tend to be slower as well, and can’t wrap as many loads per hour as other larger semi-automatic and automatic machines.

While there are some minuses in owning a smaller stretch wrap machine, on the upside, they’re usually cheaper to both purchase and maintain.  Keep in mind your own business needs and the budget you’re working with.  You may want a large, automatic machine and money is no object, or you may be working with both a cramped space and a cramped bank account.  In the end, you should be able to get an affordable packaging solution that fits both your needs and budget.