Q: What exactly is the difference between an automatic and a semi-automatic machine?
A: Automatic pallet wrapping machines perform all the functions for film wrapping – these include wrapping, cutting, and sealing without manual handling. A fully automatic machine ensures that a forklift operator does not need to alight their vehicle to perform one of those tasks, saving time and increasing efficiency.


We have two types of fully automatic pallet wrapping machines – integrated automatic “inline” pallet wrapping machines such as Vertex.

Our other fully automated freestanding pallet wrapping machines are the Superplus and the Motus Fix SP.

A: Semi-automatic machines can perform all of the above functions but these tasks can also be executed manually.


Our semi-automatic pallet wrapping machines include Base, Cresco, Tiro,  Plana, and Motus Fix. 

Mobile Pallet wrapping machines with semi-automatic features include Viverra and Cingo.

Q: Why would you choose one over the other?
A: Automatic: Operations that are supplying pallets to big supermarkets such as Aldi, Woolworths, and Coles need to ensure that there are no film tails – also known as “dags” – hanging from the pallet. Automatic machines use a special sealing 180-degree C plate to fuse the end of the tail to the finished wrapped pallet. This way, the tails do not catch on other wrapped pallets during transportation and start to unravel. Any visible tail dags on pallets will be rejected by the supermarkets as they can affect automatic production lines.

A: Semi-automatic: A business that is less likely to have an issue with the end user with problems such as film tails could use a semi-automatic machine. In addition, if the forklift operator needed to perform an additional manual operation such as alighting the vehicle to affix a barcode sticker/label to each wrapped pallet, the recommendation would be to use a semi-automatic machine. This will save on overall costs on the machine price points.

Q: What sort of industries use automatic and semi-automatic? Why?
A: Automatic: Suppliers of fresh foods to large retailers such as agriculture and farming, as well as logistics companies that have automated production and dispatch lines. Equally, large food retailers such as supermarkets themselves prefer and need fully automatic machines due to the stringent requirements mentioned above, and the sheer volumes of pallets to be processed. These automatic pallet wrapping machines would be integrated into dispatch production lines.


A: Semi-automatic: Small to medium operations and those with additional manual requirements such as barcode applications might be a better fit for semi-automatic machines.

Q: Do/can users transition from one solution to another? Why?
A: A company may obtain a new contract to be fulfilled. The business may be expanding and have different needs and requirements from previous operations. This could also be a good opportunity to explore rental and leasing options on pallet wrapping machines. 

Q: How often do pallet wrapping machines need servicing? Are some more ‘high maintenance’ than others?
A: The more automated the machine, the more frequent the servicing required. So, for example, the Superplus pallet wrapping machine should be serviced each quarter.

As always, in order to make the best recommendation for individual circumstances, a visit to the site is always required. Contact us to arrange an appointment

Find out more about our fully automatic freestanding machines: Superplus, Base, and Motus Fix SP
Explore our range of semi-automatic machines.