Stretch film – What Gauge is right for my application?

Anchor Packaging specializes in all forms of industrial packaging.  We stock three gauges of stretch film, 63-gauge, 80-gauge, and 120-gauge.  One of the common questions asked of us is: what gauge of film do we need to use for our current application? 

Thinner films cost less, so this is one of the most important questions to help reduce costs to the end user.  Here is a brief rundown of the different film gauges and their primary use:

63-gauge:  Primarily used to wrap heavy loads of products up to 2200 lbs with minimal sharp edges.  As it is thinner than the other options, users must take care to watch sharp edges to prevent breakage.  63-gauge is perfect for cardboard boxes, especially if they are stacked squarely.

80-gauge:  80-gauge is the most common stretch film thickness.  It can be used in almost any application.  Users would want to focus on loads up to approximately 2200-2400 lbs.  80-gauge is much stronger against potential breakage.

120-gauge: 120-gauge is the heaviest gauge that we stock.  It is incredibly resistant to puncture and breakage.  It is ideal for loads up to 3200 lbs.  Taller and heavier loads fare better when using 120 gauge.

As you can see, there are many choices when looking at stretch films.  Selecting the right gauge for the job will save you time and money.  Anchor Packaging can obtain any size or gauge film for your needs, even if it is not a stock product for us.

Please call us for samples and questions.  We are more than happy to help to make sure that all of your stretch film needs are met.