Wrapping Your Pallet For Delivery

Our simple step-by-step guide explains how to wrap your freight, so it is safe and secure for delivery.

Updated: 16/07/2025

How to Wrap Your Pallet

All palletised freight needs to be secured to the pallet before shipping and wrapping it in stretch film – also known as shrink wrap or pallet wrap – ensures your goods are anchored to the pallet and kept stable, reducing the risk of loss or damage during delivery. Wrapping your goods also protects them from moisture and dust, so they arrive in exactly the same condition as they were sent.

1. Preparation

Before you begin, it’s important to make sure you have enough of the right materials to properly wrap your goods. For most freight types, you will need is stretch film and tape, but for tall, heavy or fragile goods, you may need other materials such as straps, corner protectors or additional cardboard.

2. Stabilise the pallet

Make sure the goods are evenly stacked, stable and not hanging over the edge of the pallet. Pallets that are particularly tall or heavy should be secured with straps, while fragile goods should have additional protection such as cardboard corners or bubble wrap added.

3. Secure the starting end of the film

Start by unrolling approximately 60cm of stretch film and securing it to the base of the pallet. You can do this by fastening it around one of the corner blocks. Grip the roll of film at each end and move backwards around the pallet to begin wrapping your goods with the stretch film.

4. Wrap upwards and overlap

Continue wrapping upwards, making sure to overlap at least one third of the previous layer’s surface. As you wrap, make sure there are no gaps between the layers. The film should be applied tightly to prevent the goods moving or slipping during transit.

5. Fix the top

Twist the wrap around and over the top of the consignment. Pull the roll across the top, twisting around the opposite corner. Repeat this process, alternating corners, until the top edge of the freight is well covered.

6. Adhesive tape at the base

After wrapping the pallet, you can apply tape at the base to secure the film and prevent it from coming off the pallet during the delivery process.

7. Additional layers

Add extra layers of stretch film to further secure your goods. Typically, we recommend that your goods should have three to five layers of stretch film to ensure it is stable.

8. Final checks

Check that the stretch film is applied evenly and tightly around all the goods, ensuring there are no weak areas of gaps that could allow the freight to move.

9. Label and ship

When your pallet is securely wrapped, tear the stretch film and tuck the end under one of the layers to keep it from getting caught on anything. Now all you need to do is add the label before it is ready to be shipped!