Stretch film that fits your process
Less consumption, less damage
Stretch film looks like a commodity, but the right choice can easily save tens of percent in both consumption and damage. It comes down to three things: hand or machine film, the right thickness and pre-stretch, and whether you want to go greener with PCR film. Why thinner is sometimes stronger, and which film fits your pallet and process, is set out in detail in the material guide — you'll find the properties per film type at a glance, so you choose on evidence rather than gut feeling.
The right tape for the right box
A box is only as strong as its weakest seal
The right tape depends on the box weight, the surface (smooth, dusty, recycled) and whether you seal by hand or by machine. PP acrylic, hot-melt, paper/kraft or machine tape — each has its moment. Rather than repeat a selection guide here: work out the right tape directly with the tape calculator, which matches carrier, adhesive and width to your situation.
Want to be recognisable without printing the whole box? Printed tape with your logo is often the cheapest route to a brand experience — read more on the printed boxes page.
Sustainable packaging: PCR film and the PPWR
Less environmental impact, often less cost too
Sustainability is no longer a side issue. PCR film enables the use of recycled material. With the right film and thickness, material reduction can lower consumption and costs, provided pallet performance is maintained. The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025 and has largely applied since 12 August 2026. Other requirements are being introduced in phases. Read what this means for films and tapes on the packaging advice & PPWR page.
Frequently asked questions about film and tape
Short answers; the technical detail is in the extended FAQ
Rule of thumb: nano film around 12 to 15 micron may replace thicker standard film on light, stable pallets with suitable machine settings. Validate grams per pallet, containment force and load stability in a practical trial. The material guide gives the guide values per application.
Hand film is for lower volumes and loose pallets. Machine film runs on a wrapping machine with high pre-stretch and is cheaper per pallet once you wrap larger numbers. The break-even depends on your pallets per day; we run that through together.
For heavy or recycled boxes you choose a stronger carrier and adhesive, such as hot-melt or a reinforced tape. The surface (smooth, dusty, recycled) matters too. Work out the right combination with the tape calculator, which matches carrier, adhesive and width to your situation.
Modern PCR film (post-consumer recyclate) often performs comparably to virgin film and helps with the PPWR requirements around recycled content. The best proof is a test roll on your own pallet, so you're sure the performance holds before you switch.
Request a test roll or advice
Looking to save on film or tape? Request a test roll or describe the situation. IVX will assess usage, application and available options.
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