How Much Stretch Film Is Needed for A Container?

A standard 40ft high cube container (40HC) typically requires 15-25 rolls of standard stretch film (50cm width, 1500m length per roll).

The exact quantity depends on several key factors:

Number of Pallets: A 40HC can hold 20-24 standard pallets (120cm x 100cm).

Wrapping Method:

Hand wrapping: Uses more film due to inconsistent tension.

Machine wrapping: Uses less film with even tension and adjustable settings.

Layers & Coverage: Typically 5-8 vertical layers with 50-100% coverage. Higher coverage or unstable goods require more film.

Film Specifications: Thickness (15-23μm), width (50cm for hand wrap), and length (e.g., 1500m/roll) affect usage.

Simplified Calculation:

For a standard pallet (1.2m x 1.0m), hand wrapping requires ~70-100m of film.

Example: 22 pallets × 80m each = 1,760m total → ~1.17 rolls of 1,500m film.

Note: This is a theoretical estimate. Actual usage may be higher due to operational factors like overlaps or irregularly shaped loads. Always conduct a test wrap or consult your supplier for precise recommendations.