Semi-automatic Pallet vs. Manual Pallet Wrapping Machine

Shrink-wrapping pallets is one of the final steps in the shipping process, but it is also one of the most important. Improperly packed loads can not only lead to product damage and financial loss, but also pose a major safety hazard to those working around them. Read on to learn more about the differences between the two, and why you might choose one over the other.

Standard Pallet Wrapping Machine

Manual Wrapping Machines

Manual pallet wrapping machines help warehouse workers pack small quantities of pallets more efficiently each day. These entry-level machines vary in size and configuration, but most have turntables, film holders and foot pedals that are manually controlled by the operator.

There are several levels of manual wrapping.

Pure manual wrapping, where the operator is everything.

Turntable with hand or foot pedal

Turntable with mast (no power)

Turntable with semi-automatic push-button mast

The manual wrapping process is relatively simple, but time consuming. The main benefit of using a manual pallet wrapper is that it prevents workers from circling the pallet while trying to wrap it as efficiently as possible. 

However, there are several disadvantages to using one of these machines. Even when the pallet is placed on the turntable, the rest of the process is done entirely by hand, leaving plenty of room for human error. 

Fatigue, distraction, and the total time required to set up the wrapping process make manual wrappers far less efficient than semi-automatic wrappers.

Semi-automatic wrapping machines

Semi-automatic turntable wrappers offer greater efficiency than manual wrappers. They are ideal for companies that need to wrap multiple pallets per day. The process involves only a few simple steps.

The operator drives the pallet onto the machine's turntable, applies the film to the load, and using the included control panel, the operator can set the desired wrapping program based on the shape, size and weight of the pallet load. The operator then presses a button to start the wrap cycle and the machine will automatically wrap and lace up when finished.

Semi-automatic machines offer several distinct advantages over manual machines. They allow efficient use of expensive shrink wrapping, thus minimizing waste. Because the machine controls the entire process, wrapping is done correctly every time, regardless of how many pallets are wrapped during a shift.

Strong pre-stretching is a standard feature of most semi-automatic rotary wrappers. During the wrapping process, the film is stretched to 250% of its original length. This significantly reduces the amount of film used to wrap individual pallets. 

The cost savings can quickly add up and can even cover the full cost of the machine within a few months.

Which wrapping machine is right for you

Semi-automatic pallet wrappers offer several distinct advantages over manual machines. Speed, efficiency, consistency and a relatively short return on investment are the reasons companies choose semi-automatic machines. They are perfect for any business that regularly packs multiple pallets per day. Please contact SMARTWASP and get professional solutions.