How Shipping Tape and Pallet Wrappers Work Together for Secure Shipments

The shipping world moves fast and ensuring products arrive safely is essential. While time is crucial, a damaged package negates any speed advantage. The quality of packing plays a crucial role in ensuring an ideal delivery. Simple tools such as strong shipping tape and durable stretch film can make a significant difference. The two provide a two-layered security system for your cargo, keeping it secure from the warehouse to the customer's door.

Why Proper Packaging Matters 

We will look at the tools, but first, consider the cost of incorrect packaging. Damaged goods directly impact the bottom line. According to Packaging Digest, approximately 11% of unit loads that are received in distribution centers are damaged in some manner. This results in shipment rejections and expensive returns.

Most damage is preventable. It often happens when boxes open during transit or when a stacked load shifts and collapses. This is why attention should be paid to closing every box and fixing the whole pallet.

Shipping Tape

The individual box is the beginning of protection. The primary function of shipping tape is to securely seal box flaps and prevent dust, dirt, or moisture from entering.

Not all tapes have the same qualities. Using cheap office tape on heavy boxes can lead to disastrous results. Industrial-grade tape provides strong adhesion and maintains its hold in both hot and cold conditions. A properly sealed box maintains its structural integrity. This stacking strength is critical, as boxes at the base of a pallet must support hundreds of pounds.

Pallet Wrappers

Taping and stacking boxes are one thing but holding them together is another. Trucks vibrate, brake suddenly, and make sharp turns. Even perfectly taped boxes may tip off the pallet without additional support.

Pallet wrappers are indispensable. Stretch wrap is used like a large rubber band, and it provides tension on the load and fastens all the boxes to a single solid unit. A well-wrapped pallet is a seatbelt to your goods. According to industry data, improperly packed or unsecured loads are the cause of up to 65 per cent of cargo damage. The right stretch film maintains the load in an upright position and does not allow bottom boxes to crush.

How They Work Best Together  

Tape and wrap go hand in hand. Good tape keeps the box in a shape, making it easier to wrap the pallet tightly. The pallet wrapper, in its turn, safeguards the tape. The wrap also prevents the tape from peeling or snagging on other pallets by covering the exterior of the boxes.

An example is that the pallet in the damp warehouse can have its tape glue diluted by water. The tape is loosely wrapped in a tight wrap that holds it in place.

Simple Tips for Maximum Security

To achieve the most positive results, use the following simple rules:

●      Seal the seams: apply the H-seal technique – tape the edges and center of heavy objects. This adds extra strength.

●      Fix the load: in case of a wrap, one can fix the film to the base of the pallet made of wood first. This attaches the boxes to the pallet, making sure they do not slide off during forklift maneuver's.

Conclusion  

Safe shipping does not consist of a single tool; it is a system. You can't just put a box on and hope it works, nor can you wrap up a pallet of open boxes. You must do both. A combination of heavy-duty tape and professional pallet wrappers will provide powerful protection against damage. 

If you’re ready to upgrade your packaging strategy, Supply Bliss provides reliable supplies to help you ship with confidence.