PVC and polyolefin shrink films are both materials you can use to package products in a professional manner.
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. Behind polyethylene and polypropylene, PVC is the third most common of synthetic plastic across the globe. Besides packaging, PVC is used for cable insulation, lamination, and construction, so it is proven to be a very reliable material for millions of people.
PVC shrink tubing or film can be found in multiple different thicknesses, but the most common shrink film is the 75 gauge. Shrink film is easy to use as wrappers for small boxes and cases, but not ideal for products 25 pounds or over.
Polyolefin shrink film is a solid option for packaging products in a broad range of industries. Shrink film is safe for food and FDA approved, so whether you have produce, electronics, entertainment, or anything else to sell that can be wrapped in shrink film, it will be 100 percent legal to do so.
The term “polyolefin” means “oil like”. Polyolefin is a plastic that feels very slick to the touch, and is much softer than PVC. Unlike PVC, polyolefin doesn’t chloride, which makes it safe to use with food products. Basically, if you want to package food or produce, pick polyolefin shrink wrap, but if not, then PVC is your plastic of choice.
60 Gauge
While some companies produce 50 gauge films, 60 gauge film offers a little bit more strength while still feeling light and flexible for packaging. 60 gauge films will work on most light-weight applications. Film of 60 gauge does not require a lot of heat to shrink or seal. Too much heat will cause the film to burn and/or develop holes in its body.
60 gauge film is most suitable for selling food and edible products. For instance, if you run a bakery, this film can be ideal for wrapping many different cookies in, in addition to other baked goods.
75 Gauge
This is the standard level of thickness for both PVC shrink tubing and polyolefin tubing. Even though the films have the same thickness, PVC shrink film is more durable due to having more friction and resistance against objects that it is made to seal.
Polyolefin on the other hand is softer and more flexible after it becomes heated. Consider which film would be better for your packaging: Do you need something soft and flexible, or hard and durable?
Consider a 75 gauge film if you sell products or a bundle of products inside of a box that is no heavier than 25 pounds. Anything heavier than that, consider 100 gauge film.
100 Gauge
100 gauge film is the thickest film that most companies have available for sale. This is for product managers that have difficulties with handling heavy packages that may cause easy tears or rips on lighter gauge films. Because of the degree of thickness involved for 100 gauge film, it requires the most heat in order to shrink and seal for packaging.
For packages that are up to 35 pounds, and/or for big, bulky boxes with sharp, point corners, 100 gauge films should hold up fairly well. This film is even capable of wrapping wood and metal containers with minimal complications.
This type of plastic film is harder to open, but you can simply use it to your benefit. Plastic that is harder to break open means the products sealed inside have better security, so even if you are wrapping small packages, there is an advantage for buying the thickest of plastics available.
