Every organization is different. No two companies are faced with the same challenges, production needs, and warehouse organization. Choosing the right stretch wrapping machine for your business is a big investment that should not be taken lightly. Here at GAP-CO we take pride in helping clients understand their unique business environment and working together to find the right system that fits their needs and budget.
Defining Your Stretch Wrapping Goals
The first and most important question you should ask yourself before buying a stretch wrapping machine is what are your goals? You should look to define what success looks like for switching to a machine for your stretch wrapping needs. Are you switching from hand wrapping to a semi- or fully- automatic system? What is your current production output and your planned output for the future? How many loads per day will you be wrapping now, one year, five years, or ten years from now? Switching to an automated stretch wrapping process can also reduce your liability and injury risks from workers manually wrapping pallets and walking around on your facility floors. These are all important questions to ask yourself to determine what your goals are.
Answering these questions will help you determine what kind of machine will benefit your business the most. You should also determine if there are any special needs your loads will require. This includes identifying important information such as:
- Load Specifications: Pallet size and type, weight, stability, and variability of loads
- Production Environment: Warehouse conditions such as temperature and humidity
- Warehouse Space: How much room is available for a stretch wrapping machine
Comparing Different Stretch Wrappers
Once you’ve identified the important information about your loads, you can then begin to compare the different types of stretch wrappers available on the market. It’s critical that you weigh the pros and cons of each machine type against your stretch wrapping goals. Rotary arm machines, for example, are well-equipped to handle unstable or heavy loads because the machine arm wraps around the stationary pallet. Knowing the features of each machine and your requirements such as desired output will help you in your comparisons.
Turntable Stretch Wrapper
Rotary Arm Stretch Wrapper
Identify Any Must-Have Features
During your research, you should determine what features are essential for the safe and proper wrapping of your products. Will you require a turntable stretch wrapper with a touch screen and/or multiple emergency stop buttons? Do you need a wrapper that supports conveyor systems in a fully automated environment? Identifying these must-have features will help you narrow down your selection.
Manufacturer/Distributor Network
In addition to choosing a machine, you’re also choosing the manufacturer or distributor that you’ll be working with for the life of the machine. There are many factors you should consider when evaluating who you’ll want to do business with. These factors include:
- Total number of machines installed
- Machine pricing and available options
- Support and service network
- Warranty and availability of replacement parts
You’ll want to choose someone who you can rely on if any problems do arise with your stretch wrapping machine. How many machines have they successfully installed in the field? Are their prices competitive? What kind of repair/maintenance services do they offer their customers? Knowing these factors will ensure you make the correct choice of partner for your stretch wrapper. Choosing the right installer is just important as choosing the right machine.
Choosing the Right Packaging Solution
One of the ways that GAP-CO differs from other packaging companies is that we work with our customers to determine the most cost-effective and safe packaging methods for your stretch wrapping operations. Our trained packaging professionals identify solutions including machine type, gauge of film, and more. This saves your business time and money, keeping your production lines running smoothly and efficiently.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about choosing the right stretch wrapping machine for your business, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.
