Types of Stretch Wrapping Machines: 5 Common Options Compared

The stretch wrapping market offers at least five main machine types, each with a distinct operating principle, automation level and price band. Choosing the right one from the start avoids investing in the wrong segment, such as using a mini wrapper for industrial pallets or buying a self-propelled robot for a warehouse that ships only 20 pallets a day. This guide breaks down each common type and where it fits.

As logistics grows, the demand for safe, fast and cost-efficient pallet packaging keeps the stretch wrapper market expanding. That variety also causes confusion: many businesses still wrap industrial pallets with a mini unit, or over-invest in a robot for a low-volume site. To weigh selection criteria first, see our guide on what a stretch wrapping machine is and how to choose one.

Type 1: Semi-automatic turntable stretch wrapper

This is the most common type in Vietnam, accounting for roughly 60-70% of machines running in logistics warehouses and factories. The principle is simple: the pallet sits on a round table, an electric motor rotates the table, and an operator holds the film head and adjusts the film column height by hand or with a button.

The clearest advantage is low investment cost (22-55 million VND), simple operation and easy maintenance. The drawback is that one operator must stay at the machine throughout the wrapping shift, and wrap quality depends heavily on operator skill.

Popular models include the ICD-T1650F (2,000 kg load, 45 million VND), ICD-Y1650F (1,500 kg load, with casters, 45 million VND), ICD-X0MS (standard semi-automatic, 22 million VND) and ICD-X0PS (smart semi-automatic with an electronic display, 55 million VND).

Type 2: Fully automatic stretch wrapper

The next step up from semi-automatic: the whole cycle of wrapping, film tensioning and cutting is automatic. The operator only places the pallet on the table, selects a program and presses start. After 60-120 seconds the pallet is fully wrapped and discharged.

What sets fully automatic machines apart is the pre-stretch system: the PE film is stretched before wrapping, typically by 150-250%. That means a 500 m roll of film performs like 2 to 2.5 rolls without pre-stretch. For a warehouse wrapping 100+ pallets a day, the annual PE film saving can reach 50-100 million VND.

Models include the ICD-Ultra Wrap 2000BF (250% pre-stretch, 2,200 mm height, 65 million VND), the ICD-T1800FZ with integrated conveyor (in-line integration, 80 million VND) and the ICD-X100 (premium fully automatic).

Type 3: Self-propelled wrapping robot (Robopac)

Instead of rotating the pallet, the robot moves around a stationary pallet. This is the fundamental technical difference, and the reason robots suit situations a turntable cannot handle. For a deeper analysis, see how a wrapping robot differs from a standard stretch wrapper.

The Robopac Masterplat Plus (ICD-TP3) is the highest-end robot ICD distributes in Vietnam. It offers pre-stretch up to 300%, a touch screen, storage for up to 10 wrapping programs and the option to integrate with a WMS via API. At 350 million VND it is a large investment, but the ROI is clear for warehouses wrapping 300+ pallets a day or handling special loads.

Type 4: Mini stretch wrappers (handheld and small semi-automatic)

The most compact type, priced from 800,000 VND (mechanical handheld) up to 15 million VND (small semi-automatic with a compact turntable). They suit small warehouses, retail stores, or wrapping small individual items rather than full pallets.

Do not use a mini stretch wrapper to wrap heavy industrial pallets; it lacks the force and speed for continuous work. A mini machine is best for packing small goods, adding edge and corner protection, or operating at delivery points without a larger machine.

Type 5: Horizontal stretch wrapper

A specialised type that solves the problem of packaging long products a turntable cannot handle. The product travels through a rotating film ring oriented horizontally, so PVC pipe, aluminium profiles, structural steel, door frames and electrical cable bundles can all be wrapped. Learn more about the horizontal packaging machine and its real applications.

The ICD-S800E is ICD’s main horizontal model, with an 800 mm diameter wrapping ring, an adjustable conveyor speed of 0-15 m/min and 200% pre-stretch. It costs 125 million VND and requires a dedicated line layout.

Carton box wrapper: a special case

Not a pallet wrapper, but often grouped in the same category. The ICD-DBC800 specialises in wrapping PE film around small to medium carton boxes (up to 800 x 600 x 600 mm). It is common in e-commerce warehouses for moisture and dust protection on individual parcels. The price is 22 million VND.

Quick comparison of the 5 stretch wrapper types

Frequently asked questions about stretch wrapping machines

1. Should I buy a Chinese stretch wrapper or an ICD machine?

Chinese machines are often 30-50% cheaper, but spare parts must be imported, with a 4-8 week wait when something fails. ICD manufactures and stocks spare parts on hand, with same-day technical support in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. For a continuous production warehouse, one week of downtime can cost more than the price difference.

2. Which type of stretch wrapper saves the most PE film?

Automatic machines with high pre-stretch (200-300%) save the most film. The Robopac TP3 robot at 300% pre-stretch saves 50-70% film versus a standard semi-automatic. For large warehouses, the annual film saving is enough to offset the higher investment cost.

3. Is a tyre wrapping machine a separate type?

Yes. A tyre wrapping machine has a dedicated structure suited to the round shape and special surface of a tyre. ICD offers machines built specifically for tyres; contact us for advice on the right model.

4. How do I match a machine type to my warehouse volume?

Under 150 pallets a day, a semi-automatic turntable is usually enough. From 100 to 500 pallets a day, a fully automatic machine is more efficient. Above 300 pallets a day or for special loads, a self-propelled robot delivers the clearest ROI.

5. What warranty comes with ICD stretch wrappers?

All ICD machines carry a 2-year genuine warranty, with spare parts in stock and same-day technical support in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to minimise downtime.

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