Abstract: Process for packaging items having irregular shape and size, singly on in groups, in a stretchable film of plastic material, comprising the operations of forming, filling and sealing a bag from the stretchable plastic film such film being maintained under adjustable tension and stretch and subsequently adherent on the items due to the elastic "memory" of the released film. The machine for operating the process continuously comprises essentially two members subjected to a reciprocating motion, provided with means for gripping, stretching, sealing and cutting the plastic film, each of such members being subjected to a motion having a stroke of varying length and independent from the one to the other member.