LDPE Recycling for Film and Plastic Wrap
National Recycling provides LDPE recycling for UK businesses, collecting baled shrink wrap, pallet wrap, stretch film and polythene from warehouses, factories and retailers.
LDPE collections
LDPE Film Recycling: What We Collect
LDPE (low-density polyethylene) carries resin code 4. Most of the LDPE businesses produce is film, and it builds up fast wherever goods arrive on pallets.
Handled with care.
Shrink wrap.
Shrink film from palletised and multi-packed goods, the most common LDPE waste we see.Pallet wrap and stretch film.
Wrap removed from inbound pallets in warehouses, stores and goods-in areas.Polythene sheet and bags.
Polythene covers, liners, sacks and protective sheeting.Other plastic film.
Other packaging film from production lines and distribution. Send us a photo if you are not sure what you have.
From your site to a fresh start
How Plastic Film Recycling Works
- 01
Tell us what you have.
Use the quote form to give the film type, bale size, rough weight, how often you produce a load and your collection postcode. Good photos help. - 02
Get your quote.
Our team replies with a quote providing clear pricing details. - 03
Bale your film.
Plastic film must be baled before collection. We can supply balers if you do not have one. - 04
We collect.
A verified waste carrier from our network of haulage partners collects on an agreed date. Film bales can go on the same collection as your cardboard or paper bales. - 05
Receive your documents.
The film goes to a licensed recycling facility and is turned into flake or granule for new products. You receive a waste transfer note for each collection.
Let’s get it sorted
Get an LDPE Film Recycling Quote
Tell us what film you produce and how much, and our team will reply with a quote. Call 0845 366 9306 or request a quote online.
Professional services
Polythene Recycling and the Law
Under section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, your business has a duty of care for its waste. You must store it safely, pass it only to authorised carriers and keep waste transfer notes for at least 2 years.
In England, Simpler Recycling has required workplaces with 10 or more employees to separate dry recyclables, including plastic, since 31 March 2025. Micro-firms follow from 31 March 2027. In Wales, workplace recycling rules have applied since 6 April 2024. Keeping film clean, dry and separate from general waste helps you meet these rules. A regular LDPE recycling collection, with shrink wrap recycling built into your goods-in routine, gives your film the best chance of being recycled.
A partner you can depend on
Why Choose National Recycling for LDPE Recycling
UK-wide collections.
Our network of haulage partners collects from business sites across the country, so multi-site organisations deal with one supplier.Fully compliant.
We use verified waste carriers and licensed recycling facilities, in line with UK regulations.Recycling first.
We recycle wherever it is possible and safe, and only arrange disposal for what cannot be recycled.Baled film and cardboard together.
We can collect your film bales alongside cardboard or paper bales, so one collection clears both. See our cardboard recycling service.Balers supplied.
We can supply balers to help you store film safely and make collections efficient.One-off or regular.
Book a single clearance or a scheduled collection, with one supplier for every location.
Find the right service
Related Services
Is LDPE recyclable?
Yes. LDPE film such as shrink wrap, pallet wrap and polythene is recyclable when it is collected in bulk, kept clean and baled. Businesses that produce a steady volume of film are well placed to recycle it. It is turned into flake or granule and used to make new plastic products.
What number is LDPE plastic?
LDPE is resin identification code 4. Look for a 4 inside the recycling triangle, often with the letters LDPE or PE-LD. Much film is unmarked, so if you are not sure what your packaging is made from, send us a photo and our team can help you identify it.
Can pallet wrap and stretch film be recycled?
Yes. Pallet wrap and stretch film can be recycled with other polyethylene film when it is clean and baled. Remove labels, tape and other materials where you can, keep it dry, and bale it separately from general waste. We can collect your bales from sites across the UK.
Does plastic film need to be baled?
Yes. Film must be baled before we collect it. Baling keeps the material clean and compact, makes loads safe to transport and makes recycling practical. If you do not have a baler, we can supply one. Only large rigid plastic items can be collected without baling.
Can you collect plastic film with cardboard?
Yes. We can collect your plastic film bales alongside cardboard or paper bales on the same collection. Keep each material baled separately so it can be recycled properly. Tell us how much of each you produce when you ask for a quote.
How should I store shrink wrap before collection?
Store shrink wrap and other film somewhere dry and under cover, away from general waste. Keep it free of food, liquids, strapping and cardboard so each bale is clean. Bale it as you go to save space and reduce litter and fire risk on site.