What PE Film Thickness Is Suitable for Each Type of Goods?
Why Is PE Film Thickness Important?
In manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics operations, PE stretch film used for pallet wrapping is an essential packaging material. However, many businesses focus only on price and overlook film thickness. This can lead to film tearing during transport or, conversely, using overly thick film and wasting costs.
In reality, PE film thickness directly affects load stability, dust protection, moisture resistance, and damage prevention during transportation. The right stretch film not only protects goods better but also helps optimize packaging budgets.
Choosing the correct thickness brings many benefits:
- Ensures pallet stability
- Reduces risk of damage during transport
- Saves packaging material costs
- Improves warehouse operation efficiency
- Minimizes losses caused by damaged goods
So, what PE film thickness is suitable? Let’s explore in detail.
How PE Film Thickness Is Measured
PE film thickness is measured in Microns (µm).
1 micron equals:
- 0.001 mm
- 1/1000 millimeter
Examples:
- 12 micron = 0.012 mm
- 17 micron = 0.017 mm
- 23 micron = 0.023 mm
Common thickness levels include:
- 12 micron
- 15 micron
- 17 micron
- 20 micron
- 23 micron
- 30 micron
The thicker the film, the higher the strength and puncture resistance. However, this does not mean the thickest option is always the best.
Detailed Breakdown of Common PE Film Thickness
12 Micron PE Film
The thinnest type commonly used for pallet wrapping.
Applications:
- Clothing
- Paper packaging
- Light consumer goods
- Display products
Advantages:
- Lightweight
- Saves storage space and cost
Disadvantages:
- Easily torn at sharp edges
- Limited load stability
Suitable for low-risk goods with minimal transport vibration.
15 Micron PE Film
Commonly used by small businesses.
Suitable for:
- Beverages
- Household goods
- Standard cartons
Better durability than 12 micron with only slightly higher cost.
17 Micron PE Film
The most widely used thickness in logistics warehouses.
Reasons:
- Balanced cost and performance
- Good stretchability
- Suitable for many pallet types
Applications:
- Electronics
- Cosmetics
- FMCG products
- Components
A safe starting point for most businesses.
20 Micron PE Film
Used for operations requiring higher stability.
Examples:
- Import/export shipments
- Distribution centers
- Long-distance transport
Advantages:
- Strong tear resistance
- High tensile strength
- Reduces pallet collapse risk
23 Micron PE Film
Common in industrial applications and suitable for machine stretch wrapping systems.
Applications:
- Mechanical equipment
- Machinery
- Spare parts
- Metal products
High puncture resistance compared to standard films.
30 Micron PE Film
Heavy-duty film for extreme transport conditions.
Suitable for:
- Oversized cargo
- Sea freight exports
- Heavy machinery
- Steel structures
Only recommended when truly necessary due to higher cost.
How to Choose PE Film Thickness by Pallet Weight
|
Pallet Weight |
Recommended Thickness |
|---|---|
|
Under 300 kg |
12 – 15 micron |
|
300 – 800 kg |
17 – 20 micron |
|
800 – 1,500 kg |
20 – 23 micron |
|
Over 1,500 kg |
23 – 30 micron |
However, weight alone is not enough. Product shape and characteristics also matter.
Choosing PE Film by Product Type
Food Products
Characteristics:
- Packed in cartons
- Medium weight
- Hygiene requirements
Recommended:
- 15 – 17 micron
Electronics
Characteristics:
- High value
- Sensitive to impact
- Requires stability
Recommended:
- 17 – 20 micron
Consumer Goods
Characteristics:
- Uniform pallets
- Medium weight
Recommended:
- 15 – 20 micron
Export Goods
Characteristics:
- Long transportation time
- Multiple handling stages
- Changing environments
Recommended:
- 20 – 23 micron
Mechanical Goods
Characteristics:
- Sharp edges
- Heavy weight
- High puncture risk
Recommended:
- 23 micron and above
Construction Materials (Tiles, etc.)
Characteristics:
- Very heavy
- High pressure on film
- Long-distance transport
Recommended:
- 23 – 30 micron
Industrial Machinery
Characteristics:
- Heavy and valuable
- Sharp components
Recommended:
- 23 – 30 micron
Additional protection such as straps is recommended.
Is Thicker PE Film Always Better?
This is a common misconception. Many businesses believe thicker film always provides better protection. However, thickness alone is not the determining factor.
A high-quality PE film must also have:
- Good elasticity
- High stretchability
- Strong adhesion
- Stable holding force
Raw Material Quality Matters
Virgin resin produces:
- Higher durability
- Better transparency
- Stronger elasticity
- Better tear resistance
Recycled content may cause:
- Brittleness
- Lower strength
- Inconsistent quality
A good 17-micron film can outperform a poor-quality 23-micron film.
Stretchability (Elongation)
Stretchability is often overlooked but very important.
Benefits:
- Stronger pallet wrapping force
- Less material usage
- Fewer wrapping turns
- Better load stability
Example:
A 17-micron film with 250% stretch may perform better than a 23-micron film with only 120% stretch.
Common Mistakes When Choosing PE Film Thickness
Focusing Only on Price
Low price does not mean low total cost.
Choosing Film That Is Too Thin
Leads to tearing, instability, and shipment damage.
Choosing Film That Is Too Thick
Causes unnecessary cost waste.
Ignoring Stretchability
Leads to higher material consumption.
Not Testing Before Bulk Purchase
Each product requires different wrapping performance.
Ignoring Material Quality
Same thickness can perform very differently.
Ignoring Transport Conditions
Domestic and export shipments require different film grades.
Conclusion
The right PE film thickness helps businesses protect goods effectively while optimizing packaging costs. There is no single standard thickness suitable for all products. Selection should depend on pallet weight, product type, transport conditions, and protection requirements.
Choosing correctly from the beginning helps reduce packaging costs significantly and minimizes product damage across the supply chain.
Hoa Phong Pack – Your Reliable PE Film Supplier
With many years of experience in industrial packaging materials, Hoa Phong Pack is a trusted partner of manufacturing, logistics, and export businesses.
Why Choose Hoa Phong Pack?
- Made from high-quality virgin raw materials
- Wide range of thickness options
- Professional consultation for optimal solutions
- Stable quality across batches
- Competitive pricing and flexible policies
Contact Us
If your business is looking for the right PE stretch film solution for food, electronics, machinery, or export goods, Hoa Phong Pack is ready to support you with expert consultation and product samples.
Contact Hoa Phong Pack today to optimize your packaging efficiency and protect your goods more effectively.
