What Is a Horizontal Wrapper? A Guide to Efficient Packaging Solutions

In fast-paced production environments, packaging efficiency is everything. One of the most effective solutions for speed, protection, and presentation is the horizontal wrapper — a machine that plays a vital role in packaging lines across a range of industries.

At Contract Packaging Systems (CPS), we supply innovative horizontal wrapping machines that help Australian businesses boost output, reduce waste, and elevate product presentation. Whether you’re packaging baked goods or industrial components, our horizontal wrappers deliver reliable results every time.

What Is a Horizontal Wrapper?

A horizontal wrapper (also known as a horizontal flow wrapper or horizontal form-fill-seal machine – HFFS) is a high-speed packaging system designed to wrap individual products in flexible film while lying flat on a conveyor belt. These machines create a tight, sealed package by enclosing the product in a film tube and sealing it on three sides.

How Does a Horizontal Wrapper Work?

Horizontal wrappers follow a simple yet efficient process:

1. Product Placement – The product is loaded onto a conveyor or feeding system.
2. Film Wrapping – A flexible film is drawn over or under the product, forming a tube around it.
3. Sealing – The machine seals the film on the bottom and both ends to create a neat, secure package.

This fully automated or semi-automated process ensures a consistent and attractive finish while maintaining product protection.

Benefits of Using a Horizontal Wrapper

Investing in a horizontal wrapper offers a wide range of benefits for businesses:

✅ Efficiency – Ideal for high-volume lines, horizontal wrappers package products at impressive speeds.
✅ Product Protection – The sealed film safeguards products from damage, contamination, and spoilage.
✅ Cost-Effective – Reduces manual labour and material waste, optimising operational costs.
✅ Versatility – Can accommodate a variety of product shapes, sizes, and materials.
✅ Enhanced Presentation – Provides a clean, professional finish that enhances shelf appeal.

Types of Horizontal Wrappers

Different packaging needs require different machine formats. Common types of horizontal wrappers include:

• Top-fed Wrappers – Film is dispensed from above the product.
• Bottom-fed Wrappers – Film feeds from beneath, offering greater stability for some product types.
• High-Speed Wrappers – Built for rapid production in large-scale operations.
• Custom-Designed Wrappers – Tailored to suit unique product sizes, shapes, or packaging requirements.

Where Are Horizontal Wrappers Used?

Horizontal wrappers are used in many industries, offering flexibility and high performance across:

• Food & Beverage – Ideal for packaging confectionery, biscuits, baked goods, and frozen foods.
• Pharmaceutical – For medical kits, blister packs, and sterile supplies.
• Stationery & Office Supplies – Wrapping pens, books, and folders.
• Industrial Products – Flat-pack timber, bundled hardware, and more.

CPS Solutions: Area R9 and Area Ring Horizontal Wrappers

At Contract Packaging Systems, we’re proud to offer the Area R9 Semi-Automatic and Area Ring Automatic horizontal wrapper machines — trusted by manufacturers Australia-wide for their reliability and performance.

Area R9 Semi-Automatic Horizontal Wrapper

Perfect for businesses seeking a compact, cost-effective machine without sacrificing quality. The Area R9 offers flexible packaging for mid-volume production runs and is suitable for a wide range of applications.

Area Ring Automatic Horizontal Wrapper

Built for speed and scalability, the Area Ring is ideal for high-output environments that require full automation. It delivers consistent wraps, minimal film waste, and seamless integration into advanced production lines.

Both machines are engineered for durability and backed by CPS’s leading service and support.

Why Choose CPS for Horizontal Wrappers?

When you partner with CPS, you’re not just buying a machine — you’re gaining a packaging partner. We offer:

✔ Expert advice tailored to your operation
✔ Australia-wide service and support
✔ Reliable, European-made equipment
✔ Customised solutions to suit your product range

Ready to Streamline Your Packaging Line?

Whether you need a compact semi-automatic system or a high-speed automatic solution, CPS has the right horizontal wrapper for your business.

📞 Call us today on 03 9474 3800
📩 Or email info@cpspackaging.com to find the best horizontal wrapping solution for your needs.