Top Questions to Ask When Choosing a Stretch Hooding System

Investing in a stretch hooding system is a significant decision for businesses that want to optimize pallet load stability, reduce material waste, and automate high-volume packaging. At Handle-It, we help companies find packaging solutions that deliver efficiency, durability and ROI. Use this guide to walk you through the critical questions to consider when evaluating a stretch hooding system for your operation.

1. Is Stretch Hooding Right for My Application?

Stretch hooding is an excellent end-of-line packaging solution for numerous industries and applications that may demand weatherproof protection, load stability and automation. Consider these key indicators that suggest it might be ideal for your business:

Protects sensitive loads from UV rays, moisture and dust
Secures unstable and oversized pallets with a single stretchable film
Supports High-Volume operations up to 280 pallets per hour
Applies branding via custom-printed film
Reduces consumables with precise film usage and minimal energy

Handle-It stretch hooders apply a continuous film sleeve with no heat required – making them safe for temperature-sensitive products while boosting throughput and reducing labor.

Pallets of bags which have been protected with stretch hooding will withstand weather conditions.

2. What Pallet Sizes and Load Types Can a Stretch Hooding System Handle?

Stretch Hooders must be versatile. Handle-It systems are designed to wrap a wide range of load shapes and sizes.

Load Size Capabilities:

Heights: 300 mm to 3,000 mm (11.8” to 118”)
Footprints:
- Minimum size: 600 x 600 mm (23.6” x 23.6”)
- Maximum size: 3,800 x 1,400 mm (149.6” x 55.1”), depending on model
Load Shapes: Square, rectangular, and irregular pallets

Pre-set Programs: Up to 10 programs for optimal film selection

Equipment Options: Stretch Hooder Core:

Maximum Dimensions: 2,000 x 1,250 mm (80 x 50 inches)
Maximum Height: 400 mm to 2,500 mm (15 to 100 inches)

Stretch Hooder Max:

Maximum Dimensions: 3,800 x 1,250 mm (150 x 50 inches)
Maximum Height: 400 mm to 2,500 mm (15 to 100 inches)

Need custom specs? Handle-It’s modular systems allow upgrades like automatic film reel changeovers, integrated conveyors, and more—tailored to your specific load profile and production environment.

Stretch hooding equipment wrapping a large pallet

3. What Film Options Are Available?

Choosing the right film enhances protection and reduces waste. Here’s what to consider:

Common Film Specifications

Thickness: Typically 40-80 microns
Material: Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
Transparency: Clear options for product visibility
Specialty Films: UV-resistant, colored, or custom-printed options

Performance Factors

Stretch capabilities up to 300%
Tear resistance
Load stabilization properties
Environmental considerations (recyclability)

Handle-It film protects against weather, debris and sunlight while delivering strong pallet containment and clear identification.

4. How Will the System Integrate with My Packaging Line?

Seamless integration is critical to minimize disruption to your existing operations and prevent additional investment for facility updates. Key considerations:

Electrical Compatibility: voltage, amperage, and control sytems
Space Planning: Machine footprint, conveyor layout and ceiling height
Changeover Efficiency: Quick adjustments for different pallet sizes
Maintenance Needs: Ease of servicing and access to support

We tailor each Handle-It stretch hooding system to fit seamlessly into your existing operation – whether you’re upgrading a line or installing new automation.

Large pallet of construction supplies on Handle-It stretch hooding equipment.

5. What’s the Total Cost of Ownership?

A stretch hooding system is a long-term investment designed to increase your company’s profit. The right system pays for itself over time through labor savings, less waste and better product protection.

Factor in:

Upfront equipment cost
Film usage and waste reduction
Labor offset from automation
Downtime prevention
Energy savings and efficiency
A stretch hooder often leads to lower packaging costs, fewer damaged shipments, and faster ROI.

6. What Support and Maintenance Options Are Available?

Due to the size of the investment, you and your business must be supported by your stretch hooding provider before and after the purchase.

With Handle-It, you get: :

Full warranty coverage
On-site and remote technical support Spare parts from our Milwaukee warehouse
Dealer installation and service training programs
Preventative maintenance packages

We support your operation before, during and after installation, ensuring your equipment runs efficiently and consistently.

Why Partner with Handle-It?

Selecting a stretch hooding system is more than an equipment purchase—it’s about finding the right partner

Handle-It offers:

Decades of packaging experience
Custom engineering options
Fast U.S. based support
Product demos and showroom visits
Dealer network for local assistance:

Ready to Automate with Stretch Hooding?

A stretch hooding system can transform your packaging efficiency, but only when carefully matched to your specific operational needs. Take time to assess your requirements, ask detailed questions, and partner with a supplier committed to your success.

Contact Handle-It today for a comprehensive consultation.

Request a Consultation