Stretch Hood vs. Stretch Wrapping: Why Companies Are Making the Switch

The End of Spiral Stretch Wrapping?

For decades, spiral stretch wrapping has been the default method for securing pallet loads. A rotating arm or turntable wraps layers of stretch film around the pallet sides. But this method has significant limitations that a growing number of companies are recognizing.

What Is a Stretch Hood Machine?

A stretch hood machine (also called a stretch hooder) takes a fundamentally different approach. Instead of wrapping film around the sides, it forms an elastic film bag — the stretch hood — from a continuous tube of stretch hood film. This bag is then stretched to match the exact pallet dimensions and pulled down over the load in a single motion.

5 Key Advantages of Stretch Hood Over Stretch Wrapping

1. Five-Sided Protection

The most significant advantage of stretch hood packaging is complete 5-sided coverage. The film hood covers the top and all four sides simultaneously, protecting products from moisture, dust, and dirt from every direction. Traditional stretch wrappers only cover the sides.

2. Lower Film Consumption

Thanks to MSK's patented stretching process, stretch hood machines can use thinner films than conventional stretch wrappers. The film is stretched individually for each pallet dimension, minimizing waste and reducing material costs by up to 50%.

3. Film-Free Pallet Feet

With the collar stretch procedure, the stretch hood film is placed like a belt on the top panel, leaving pallet feet completely film-free. This is essential for companies using automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and automatic high-rack storage systems.

4. Superior Brand Visibility

Stretch hood film provides a smooth, transparent surface that's ideal for printed branding. Unlike the distorted, overlapping layers of stretch wrap, a stretch hood showcases product logos and barcodes with perfect clarity. Barcodes can even be scanned through the film.

5. Replaces Strapping

The elastic memory of stretch hood film creates a permanent holding force that often eliminates the need for vertical strapping entirely. This saves on strapping material, maintenance, and labor costs.

The Bottom Line

Stretch hood machines represent the next generation of end-of-line pallet packaging. With 5-sided protection, lower film costs, better brand presentation, and AGV compatibility, it's clear why leading manufacturers worldwide are switching from stretch wrappers to stretch hooders.

For more information on MSK Covertech's stretch hood machines, visit mskcovertech.com.