Shrink film is an essential component of product packaging, used across retail shops and warehouses. It enhances product visibility, optimizes space by enabling stacking, and ensures product safety. With numerous types of shrink wrap available, selecting the right one for your packaging needs can be challenging.

In this blog, we will explore the types and applications of shrink wrap to help you choose the best option for your packaging line.

What is Heat Shrink Film?

Heat shrink film is a plastic material that tightly packs objects by shrinking around them when heat is applied. It secures products and protects them from dust, dirt, and moisture.

What is Shrink Wrap Made Of?

A common question is, “What is shrink wrap made of?” It typically consists of one of these three plastics:

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Polyethylene (PE)
  • Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
  • Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
• Polyolefin (POF)

The table below summarizes the characteristics of each shrink film type:

Parameters	Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)	Polyethylene (PE)	Polyolefin (POF)
Shrink Temperature (°C)	120-160	100-150	150-200
Shrinkage Rate (%)	50-60	30-50	20-30
Thickness Range (microns)	12-25	15-30	20-200
Tensile Strength (MPa)	25-30	40-50	15-20
Transparency (Clarity %)	90-95	80-85	60-70
Elongation at Break (%)	100-120	70-100	300-400
Moisture Resistance	High	Moderate	Very high
Puncture Resistance	High	Low	Very high
Cost (Relative)	Medium	Low	Medium to high

Key Features

• Heat shrink film conforms to the product’s shape when exposed to heat.
• It is printable and available in various colours.
• Shrink film comes in different sizes and can be used with heat tunnels or heat guns.
• Versatile in application, it is suitable for items ranging from small cosmetics to bulk electronics.

What is Shrink Wrap Used For?

• Protects consumer goods while maintaining visibility.
• Shields items from dust, moisture, and scratches during transport, storage, or retailing.
• Bundles bulk items, such as bottles, for easier handling.
• Helps manage storage space by stacking products efficiently.
• Acts as a tamper-evident seal for added security.

How to Choose the Right Shrink Film?

Each shrink film type serves specific industries based on its features. Here’s a quick guide:

Type	Key Features	Best Applications
Polyolefin shrink film (POF)	Safe to use for food packaging Odorless Puncture-resistant and flexible Shrinks uniformly on the object Clear and attractive to use	Food packaging Consumer goods
PVC shrink film	High clarity Brittle when conforming in cold environments Budget-friendly	For retail goods packaging like cosmetics etc For non-food items like books, toys etc
Polyethylene shrink film (PE)	Thick and durable Resistant to heavy loads Waterproof Less clear	For heavy-duty applications like industrial use, heavy machines, and pallet wrapping For bundling bottled beverages

Is Shrink Wrap the Same as Plastic Wrap?

Although both are made from plastic, shrink wrap and plastic wrap serve different purposes:

1. Material Composition

Shrink wrap is made from POF, PVC, or PE, while plastic wrap (cling wrap) is typically PVC or PE.

2. Applications

Shrink wrap secures items for packaging; plastic wrap is mainly used for food storage.

3. Heat Application

Shrink wrap requires heat to conform, whereas plastic wrap does not.

4. Functionality

Shrink wrap bundles and protects items, while plastic wrap seals containers and preserves food freshness.

FAQs

What is the Role of Shrink Wrap in Logistics?

Shrink wrap protects products from scratches, dirt, and moisture during transport. It also facilitates bulk handling and stacking, such as bundling beverage bottles.

Is Shrink Wrap Waterproof?

Yes, shrink film is waterproof, offering protection against spills and rain. However, long-term exposure to water may compromise its integrity.

What is the Difference Between Shrink Wrap and Shrink Film?

There is no difference. Both terms refer to the same product and can be used interchangeably.

What Can I Use Instead of Shrink Film?

No single product matches shrink wrap’s versatility. It protects, and enhances visibility, supports brand promotion, optimizes space, and simplifies handling.

What is the Formula for Shrink Film?

Shrink film is made of polymers that shrink upon heating. Common materials include PVC, PE, and POF.

What is the Chemical Composition of Shrink Film?

• PVC: (C2H3Cl)n
• PE: (C2H4)n
• POF: Typically a copolymer of polyethylene and polypropylene.