BUYING CHECKLIST

Stretch Film: Net Weight vs Gross Weight

Two rolls can have the same gross weight but contain different amounts of film. Use a film-only weight basis and a wrapping trial to compare quotations fairly.

Define what is being weighed

Net film weight means the film alone. Gross roll weight commonly includes the film and core, but a quotation may use a different packing basis. Ask the supplier to state whether labels, bags, cartons or pallet materials are included. Do not compare a packed-carton weight with an unpacked roll weight. Record the weighing method and units on the same specification sheet.

Calculate film-only weight

Net film weight = measured total weight − core weight − any other non-film material included in that measurement. For example, a 3.00 kg unpacked roll with a 0.50 kg core contains 2.50 kg of film if no other material is included. Weigh an empty core of the same construction when checking a sample; do not estimate core weight from appearance. This is an illustrative calculation, not a SAFLO product specification.

Compare price on a common basis

Suppose hypothetical Roll A costs $5.00 and contains 2.50 kg of film: its film-basis price is $2.00 per kg. Roll B costs $4.80 but contains 2.20 kg: about $2.18 per kg. The cheaper roll is not cheaper per kilogram of film. These example prices are not quotations. Compare the same currency, delivery basis, packaging scope and order quantity; freight and taxes must be considered separately where they are excluded.

Do not stop at cost per kilogram

Film weight does not establish suitability for a pallet. Different constructions and wrapping settings can use different amounts of material. In a controlled trial, weigh the roll before and after wrapping several comparable loads and divide film consumption by the number of loads. Record the machine settings or hand-wrapping pattern, overlaps and additional reinforcement. Film cost per pallet = kilograms used per pallet × cost per net kilogram. Also record breaks, rework and load movement; a cheap wrap that fails is not a saving.

Make length and thickness comparable

Specify width in millimeters, thickness in microns and usable length in meters. Confirm whether thickness is nominal or measured and agree on a tolerance and measurement method. A roll-length figure inferred from weight depends on construction and measurement assumptions; ask how the stated length was established. Avoid selecting a thickness from pallet weight alone. Load shape, corners, equipment and the transport route also matter.

Check the dispenser and pack-out

Measure core inside diameter, core length, roll outside diameter and the dispenser's allowable roll weight. For machine use, provide the wrapper model and pre-stretch setting. Confirm rolls per carton, carton gross weight, cartons per pallet and pallet dimensions for freight planning. Carton and pallet weight should not be mixed into a film-only price comparison.

Prepare an RFQ that can be checked

Send your current roll label, width, thickness, usable length, net film weight, core weight, wrapping method, order quantity and destination. Include load photos and any sample-trial results. If a field is unknown, say so; do not invent it to complete the form. Ask for written confirmation of availability, the agreed specification, MOQ, sample terms and lead time before ordering. Download the checklist below and keep the approved version with the quotation.

View Stretch FilmDiscuss Your Requirement ↗