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The Shrink Wrap Process: What It Is, And How to Get It Done

  • Published: August 3, 2023

  • Updated: August 4, 2023

The shrink wrap procedure has gained favour in the packaging industry as an effective and dependable means of bundling and securing large products. Whether you sell beverages, petfood, or canned goods, shrink bundling machinery can help you streamline your packaging operations. In this blog post, we'll go over the basics of shrink wrapping, examine common applications, and walk you through the process. Let us begin!

What is Shrink Wrapping?

Shrink wrapping is a packaging technique that includes tightly wrapping a plastic film around a product or group of products and then using heat to shrink the film, conforming it to the shape of the packaged goods.

Understanding Shrink Bundling Machinery

Shrink bundling machinery is a type of equipment that is specifically built for shrink bundling purposes. Sealers, tunnels, and add-ons that achieve stronger seals and generate higher heat levels than regular retail shrink wrapping machines are included. The robustness of these machines enables secure and long-lasting packing for hefty product bundles.


Shrink bundling equipment makes use of lay-flat polyethylene shrink bundling film. This specialised material is designed to wrap around heavy packages firmly, delivering outstanding strength and stability. Its resistance to weight and pressure makes it suitable for packing bottles of beverages, petfood, canned products, and many other items.

Common Applications of Shrink Bundling

Shrink bundling is widely used in a variety of sectors. Among the most common applications are:

Bottled beverages: Shrink bundling secures numerous bottles together, making them easier to handle and transport.
Petfood: Bundling machinery packages petfood bundles efficiently, preventing dispersal and enabling storage and delivery.
Canned goods: Shrink wrapping improves the quality and presentation of canned products, allowing for more appealing retail displays.

 The Shrink Wrap Process Step-by-Step


a) Preparation: Gather the bundled products and ensure they are correctly ordered and organised for packing.

b) Film Loading: Load the lay-flat polyethylene shrink bundling film into the bundling machinery, making sure it's properly positioned.

c) Bundle Alignment: Align the bundles on the sealing platform of the bundling machine for optimal packing.

d) Sealing: Use the bundling machinery to form tight and secure seals around the bundles, ensuring that there are no loose ends or holes.

e) Heat Application: After the bundles have been sealed, they are passed through a heat tunnel or heat add-on, which applies regulated heat to the film, causing it to shrink and conform firmly to the product bundle.

f) Cooling and Inspection: After the shrinking process, allow the bundles to cool before inspecting them.

Advantages of Shrink Wrapping

Enhanced product protection: Shrink bundling provides a long-lasting barrier against moisture, dust, and tampering, protecting products throughout storage and transportation.
Improved handling and storage: Bundled products are easier to handle, stack, and store, which optimises space utilisation and streamlines logistics.
Brand visibility and aesthetics: Shrink packing provides adequate space for branding, labelling, and product information, resulting in eye-catching retail displays.
Increased efficiency: Using shrink bundling gear accelerates the packaging process, lowering labour costs and increasing production.

Shrink bundling equipment transforms the packaging process for heavy product bundles, delivering secure and visually appealing packaging options. Businesses may optimise their operations, improve product security, and increase customer satisfaction by understanding the shrink wrap process and utilising the benefits of shrink bundling. Invest in dependable shrink bundling machinery today to up your packaging game!


Are you ready to use shrink wrapping to optimise your packaging process? Contact Astrolift today to learn more about our cutting-edge solutions and how we can help you improve your packaging efficiency!