Shrink Wrap, as everyone knows, is the plastic film used to encase products prior to shipping. Activated by exposure to heat, the plastic shrinks to fit the shape of whatever has been encased in the film. Although the film is thin, it provides a durable, protective barrier against the types of inadvertent damage incurred during the shipping process.
Ideal for Print Items
Many print items, such as postcards, letterhead, brochures, flyers, notepads, catalogs, calendars, etc., are shrink-wrapped before shipping. Most print items are bundled together in packets — with the inclusion of sheet of heavy cardboard for additional strength and rigidity— prior to being encased in the shrink wrap. In some instances, items are individually shrink-wrapped prior to shipping.
Shrink-wrapping is typically offered as an optional finishing service by many commercial printers.
Why Shrink Wrap is a Good Choice
- Prevents Spoilage – Shrink wrap protects printed items from spoilage by dirt, moisture, grease, or other chemicals that would otherwise damage and spoil print items.
- Easy-to-Handle – Unlike cardboard boxes or containers, shrink wrap adds little or no bulk (saving on freight charges) and shrink-wrapped bundles are easier to handle and store.
- Maintains Uniformity – As printed paper items are constrained and protected by the shrink wrap, they are far less likely to incur the kind of damage seen (e.g., scuffs, bent corners, etc.) when shipped in boxes.
- Easy to Identify – As shrink wrap film is transparent, it’s easy to see what printed piece is enclosed in the plastic. This makes identification quick and easy if/when searching for a particular piece on storage shelf.
- Inexpensive – Shrink wrap is highly affordable and provides great benefits at minimal cost.
- If you have any questions about Shrink Wrap, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
Photo by Emily Bernal
