Can Pallet Wrap Be Recycled? Yes & Here’s How

Pallet wrap, also known as stretch film, is one of the most commonly used materials in logistics and warehousing. Its exceptional durability and flexibility make it an ideal choice for securing goods during storage and transport. However, as businesses increasingly prioritise sustainability, questions arise: can pallet wrap be recycled, and how can companies minimise its environmental impact?

The short answer is yes, pallet wrap is recyclable. With proper handling, businesses can integrate recycling into their operations to reduce waste and contribute to a greener future. At Fromm Packaging, we are committed to sustainability and helping businesses adopt eco-friendly packaging practices. This guide will teach you how to recycle pallet wrap effectively and explore ways to maximise its use. Learn more about our sustainability initiatives here.

What Material is Pallet Wrap Made Of?

Before recycling pallet wrap, it’s important to understand what it’s made of. Pallet wrap is primarily crafted from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), a versatile plastic known for its strength and stretchability. This material is ideal for securing goods tightly while maintaining flexibility. The production process involves melting resin pellets at high temperatures and extruding them into thin, durable sheets.

LLDPE’s composition makes it suitable for recycling, provided it’s clean and free of contaminants. Both pallet wrapping machines and semi automatic pallet wrapping machines are designed to work seamlessly with this material, ensuring efficient usage. 

Can You Recycle Pallet Wrap?

Most pallet wraps made from LLDPE are recyclable, provided they meet certain conditions. Clean, uncontaminated wrap can be processed into new materials, reducing waste and conserving resources.

However, not all plastic wraps are equally recyclable. Some low-density polyethylene (LDPE) wraps may require specialised facilities for processing, which can complicate recycling efforts. Businesses should check with local recycling centres to ensure compliance and efficiency when disposing of pallet wrap.

Is Stretch Film Recyclable?

Stretch film opens up valuable recycling opportunities. This versatile pallet wrapping material, crafted from recyclable plastics, returns to the production cycle when handled correctly. The key lies in proper preparation—your stretch film needs thorough cleaning before recycling. Remove every trace of contaminants, from stubborn dirt to leftover tape and labels. Once cleaned, these materials find new life through dedicated processing facilities, transforming potential waste into environmental advantage.

How to Recycle Pallet Wraps

Recycling pallet wraps doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to handle your materials responsibly and efficiently:

Step 1: Collect and Clean Your Used Wraps

Start with systematic collection throughout your facility. Used pallet wraps need careful gathering—this first step sets the foundation for successful recycling. The cleaning process requires attention to detail. Remove any visible contaminants like dirt, grease, or adhesive residue with precision, ensuring each wrap meets recycling facility standards. Clean materials move through recycling processes more efficiently, increasing their chances of acceptance and successful processing.

Step 2: Segregate Stretch Films From Other Packaging Materials

Separate stretch films from other packaging materials like cardboard or shrink wrap. This step is crucial to avoid contamination. Make sure to recycle other materials through their respective channels, supporting an overall waste reduction strategy.

Step 3: Re-Use the Collected Film or Send It to a Recycling Facility

Whenever possible, re-use stretch film for less demanding applications, such as securing lightweight items. For wraps that are no longer usable, send them to a local recycling centre specialising in plastic materials like pallet wrapping.

5 Tips to Help You Make the Most Out of Your Pallet Wraps

Using pallet wraps efficiently can save costs and reduce environmental impact. Here are some actionable tips to maximise their value:

Invest in a Pallet Wrapping Machine

A high-quality pallet wrapping machine transforms your film usage. Through precise tension control and calculated stretch ratios, these systems eliminate material waste while maintaining optimal load security. Automated solutions deliver remarkable efficiency gains—whether you choose an automatic stretch wrapper for high-volume operations or a semi automatic pallet wrapping machine for flexible control, each system optimises your material consumption while streamlining your packaging process.

Monitor & Measure Stretch Film Usage

Track your stretch film consumption regularly. Analysing usage patterns can help you identify waste and implement changes to optimise film application.

Use High-Quality Wrapping Materials

Premium-grade pallet wraps offer better performance and durability, reducing the likelihood of waste due to breakage or inefficiency. Explore Fromm’s range of high-quality pallet wrap materials here.

Train Your Staff in Proper Wrapping Techniques

Ensure your team understands how to handle and apply stretch film effectively. Proper training reduces waste and improves the security of wrapped goods during transport.

Partner With Reliable Suppliers

Work with suppliers who prioritise sustainability and provide eco-friendly packaging solutions. Fromm Packaging offers a comprehensive range of products designed to minimise waste and promote greener practices.

Take Steps Towards Sustainability With FROMM Packaging

Recycling pallet wrap creates immediate environmental impact. Through simple, practical steps, your business can transform its approach to packaging waste and forge a path toward genuine sustainability. Our commitment at Fromm Packaging runs deep—we engineer solutions that combine innovation with environmental responsibility.

From advanced pallet wrapping machines to sophisticated stretch wrappers, each tool we design serves dual purposes. They drive operational efficiency while actively reducing waste through precise material usage. It's technology with purpose, designed for today's environmental challenges.

Ready to make a change? Contact FROMM Packaging Australia today and explore our range of pallet wrap solutions tailored to your business needs. Together, we can build a greener future.