What’s the Difference with Pallet Bags vs Pallet Caps?
When it comes to shipping and protecting palletised goods, not all packaging solutions are the same. Two of the most widely used pallet protection products are pallet bags and pallet caps. While they might sound similar, they are designed for different applications and offer different levels of protection. Knowing the difference will help you choose the right option for your warehouse, transport or storage needs.
What Are Pallet Bags?
Pallet bags are large, gusseted plastic bags designed to cover and protect the entire pallet load from top to bottom. They are made from durable LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) and are widely used in manufacturing, warehousing, food production and export packaging.
Key features of pallet bags:
- Fully enclose pallet loads
- Protect goods from dust, dirt and moisture
- Available in a range of sizes and thicknesses
- Can be supplied perforated on a roll for easy use
- Ideal for long-term storage and transport
- Also available in custom sizes and heavy-duty options
Pallet bags are simply placed over the full pallet and can be sealed at the base or secured with stretch wrap or tape. Because they offer complete coverage, they are a popular choice for goods that need maximum protection or are stored outdoors.
Pallet bag video
This is a an older video from our Melbourne Packaging supplies youtube, but it still check out.
What Are Pallet Caps?
Pallet caps are large plastic sheets designed to cover just the top of a pallet. They are commonly used alongside stretch wrap to prevent dust, water and debris from settling on the top of goods. Pallet caps are made from HDPE or LDPE and are lightweight, fast to use and cost effective.
Key features of pallet caps:
- Cover only the top of the pallet
- Provide protection from dust and moisture falling from above
- Commonly used with stretch wrap
- Available in clear or black film
- Often used for transport and short-term storage
- Cost-effective protection solution
A pallet cap is placed over the pallet load before or during stretch wrapping. This creates a weather-resistant top layer while still keeping costs low.
Pallet cap videos
We have 2 videos for pallet caps.
In the first video we use a black pallet cap, then a pallet wrapping machine to wrap the pallet.
In this video we use a clear pallet cap and then hand pallet wrap to wrap the pallet.
What Is the Difference Between Pallet Bags and Pallet Caps?
| Feature | Pallet Bags | Pallet Caps |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Covers entire pallet load | Covers top only |
| Protection Level | High – full enclosure | Moderate – top protection |
| Material Thickness | From light to heavy-duty | Light to medium |
| Best For | Long-term storage, outdoor goods, hygiene protection | General transport, warehouse storage |
| Use With Stretch Wrap | Optional | Recommended |
| Cost | Higher | Budget-friendly |
Which One Should You Choose?
The right option depends on how your pallets are handled and stored:
Choose pallet bags if:
- Your goods are stored outdoors or exposed to weather
- You need full protection from moisture, dust or contamination
- You're shipping sensitive or high-value goods
- Your pallets will be stored for long periods
Choose pallet caps if:
- You already use stretch wrap and only need top protection
- Your products are stored indoors
- You want a more economical option
- You need a fast and simple packaging method
MPS Packaging Australia – Your Pallet Protection Specialists
At MPSPACK, we supply a full range of pallet bags and pallet caps for every industry. Whether you need clear bags for general storage, heavy-duty protection for export freight, or black UV pallet caps for outdoor use, we can help. Custom sizes, printed film and speciality options are also available on request.
Need Help Choosing?
Not sure what size or thickness you need? Our team can recommend the right product based on your pallet size, load height and warehouse environment.
