How to Choose Stretch Film Thickness, Width and Length

A useful stretch-film specification describes more than a single thickness number. Width, length, roll format and the application should be considered together so that the roll fits both the job and the equipment.

Thickness: state the unit

Film thickness is commonly expressed in micrometres, written as μm or microns. One micrometre is 0.001 mm, so 20 μm is 0.020 mm. Always include the unit when sending a specification; a number without a unit can lead to a different quotation.

Do not assume that a thicker film automatically gives the best result. The load, film performance and wrapping settings need to work together. Ask for a trial with the goods and equipment you actually use.

Width: match the application and roll format

Width is the dimension across the film web. A narrow roll for bundling small items is a different requirement from a roll used to wrap a pallet. For machine use, confirm the carriage's permitted film width and core dimensions before choosing a roll.

VISENPACK offers different widths across its stretch-film range. Availability depends on whether you need hand, machine, mini or jumbo rolls. Share the intended format together with the width rather than treating every width as available for every format.

Length: compare like for like

Length describes how much film is wound on a roll before use. When comparing two offers, keep width, thickness, length and the weight basis consistent. A lower price per roll does not by itself tell you which roll contains more usable film.

A specification checklist

1. Choose hand, machine, mini or jumbo format.
2. Write width in mm or cm and thickness in μm.
3. Specify roll length or net film weight, and explain which is the priority.
4. Include core size, color, quantity and delivery destination.
5. Arrange a sample review against your actual wrapping requirements.

If you only know the dimensions printed on your current roll, send a clear photograph. We can help clarify the specification before preparing an offer.

Discuss your specification and request a quotation →

How should I specify stretch film thickness?
State the stretch film thickness in microns (µm), together with roll width, length or net film weight, core dimensions and hand or machine application. When comparing stretch wrap film thickness, request the same measurement units and confirm the quoted specification with the supplier.

Does a thicker film always suit my pallet?
Thickness alone does not establish a universal pallet weight limit. Request a sample and test it with your actual load, wrapping pattern, equipment and handling conditions. Record film consumption, breaks and load movement, then agree on the specification before placing a bulk order.

How thick is a 120 gauge stretch wrap?
Under the common plastic-film convention, 100 gauge equals 1 mil (0.001 inch). Therefore, 120 gauge is 1.2 mil, or 30.48 microns; 80 gauge is 0.8 mil, or 20.32 microns. These are thickness conversions, not load-capacity ratings. When requesting a quotation, specify microns and confirm the nominal thickness and tolerance for the actual film.