Guide · 4 min read
What Micron Pallet Wrap Do I Need? (25 vs 35 Micron)
Micron (µ) is simply how thick the pallet wrap is. Thicker film is stronger — but thicker isn't always better, and the right choice depends on your loads. Here's how to pick without overpaying.
What does micron mean?
One micron is a thousandth of a millimetre. So a 25 micron film is thinner than a 35 micron film. The higher the micron, the thicker, stronger and more puncture-resistant the wrap — and usually the higher the price per roll.
You may also see film measured in 'gauge' — that's an older US measure. In the UK, micron is the standard, and 25 and 35 micron are the two most common hand-film thicknesses.
When to use 25 micron
25 micron is the everyday workhorse. It's ideal for light-to-medium, stable, uniform loads — boxed goods, cartons, palletised stock without sharp edges.
For most general warehouse and e-commerce dispatch, 25 micron holds loads securely at the lowest cost per roll. It's the sensible default unless your loads are heavy or awkward.
When to use 35 micron
Step up to 35 micron for heavier, denser or sharper loads — anything with edges or corners that could puncture thinner film, or heavy pallets that need extra holding force.
35 micron resists tearing and punctures far better, so it keeps demanding loads secure through rough handling and transit. It costs a little more per roll, but it prevents the far bigger cost of a load that shifts or fails.
Why thicker film can actually save money
It sounds backwards, but a thicker, stickier film often means you use fewer wraps per pallet — because each layer does more work. Fewer passes means less film, less time, and less plastic overall.
The rule of thumb: the thicker and stickier the film, the less you use. So don't just buy the thinnest, cheapest roll — match the micron to your loads and you'll often spend less per pallet, not more.
Common questions
Is 25 or 35 micron pallet wrap better?
Neither is 'better' overall — it depends on your loads. 25 micron suits light-to-medium, stable loads at the lowest cost. 35 micron suits heavy, sharp or irregular loads that need extra strength and puncture resistance.
Does thicker pallet wrap save money?
It can. A thicker, stickier film often needs fewer wraps per pallet, so you use less film per load — which can lower your cost per pallet even though the roll costs a bit more.
Want a free sample or a quote?
Test our film on your own loads. Free samples, free UK delivery, and same-day quotes — cast or blown, 25 or 35 micron.