How to Choose the Right Packing Tape For Your Boxes

Whether you are packing items to move from one location to another or you are packing items for shipping, you will need to use appropriate packing boxes to secure the items, during the moving or shipping. You will also need adhesive tapes designed for packaging to help secure the boxes. This is a brief guide on how to go about choosing the right packing tape to meet your packing needs.

Key Takeaways

Using the wrong packing tape can lead to package damage or loss, while the right tape provides a strong seal that withstands rough handling and environmental factors.
Heavy or large boxes require reinforced or high-adhesion tape, while smooth or coated surfaces may need specialized adhesives for a secure bond.
Temperature, humidity, and exposure to moisture can weaken tape adhesion, making temperature-resistant, UV-resistant, or moisture-resistant tape essential for durability.
Hot melt tape is ideal for shipping, acrylic adhesives perform well in various temperatures, and natural rubber adhesives provide strong adhesion for rough surfaces.

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How to Choose the Right Packing Tape For Your Boxes

The Importance of Choosing the Right Packaging Tape

Choosing the right packaging tape is important. It’s not just about closing a box. The right tape helps shipments come safely, quickly, and looking professional. Here are some reasons why using the right tape matters.

Ensures Package Security

Using the wrong packing tape can cause packages to open while being shipped. This can result in lost or damaged items. A good packing tape offers a strong and sturdy seal. It can handle rough treatment, changes in the weather, and long-distance delivery. Whether you choose heavy-duty tape or water-activated tape, having a secure closure will lower the risks of shipping problems.

Reduces Shipping Costs

Choosing the right tape can help companies save money on shipping. When boxes are sealed well, they won’t get damaged as often. This keeps costs down by avoiding returns, replacements, and refunds. Also, using strong tape lets you use fewer layers to close a package. This also lowers material costs.

Improves Efficiency in Packing Operations

The right clear packing tape makes packing easier. You can use it by hand or with machines. Good sealing means you won’t have to re-tape. It stops tape from peeling or breaking. This helps keep things moving smoothly when packing and shipping. By using the right tape, businesses can work faster, cut down on delays, and boost productivity.

Enhances Brand Reputation

The way a package looks when it gets to its destination shows a lot about the sender. A box that is not sealed well or is damaged because the glue is weak can leave a bad impression. However, a well-sealed package that looks professional makes customers happier and strengthens the trust in the brand. Custom-printed packing tapes are also a good way to build a brand. They let businesses show off their logo and help people remember the brand better.

Learn more about branded tapes versus branded boxes.

What Are The Factors to Consider When Choosing a Packing Tape?

When picking packing tape, think about a few things to ensure your boxes will remain secure during shipping, storage, and handling. These include weight and size of the box, environmental conditions, adhesive type, and application method. Below, we explore key considerations to help you select the best tape for your specific needs.

1. Box Weight and Size

The weight and size of the box are very important when choosing the right packing tape. If the box is light, you can use standard packing tape. For heavier boxes, you will need reinforced or high-adhesion tape to prevent accidental opening. Bigger boxes might also need wider tape, which ensures better coverage and strong seals.

2. Box Material and Surface

Not all packing tapes stick the same way to different box types. For example, corrugated boxes usually need stronger glues to hold better, especially if the surface is rough. Coated or shiny boxes might need special glues to make sure they stick well and do not peel off later.

3. Storage and Shipping Conditions

Environmental factors can greatly affect the effectiveness of packing tape. If you store boxes in very hot or cold temperatures or in areas with a lot of humidity, temperature-resistant tape is best. Acrylic adhesives are a good choice for this. If you plan to store things for a long time, UV-resistant tape is important to prevent damage from sunlight. Also, if packages might get wet, moisture-resistant tape can help keep them safe.

4. Type of Adhesive

Packing tape is made from a different kind of glue. You should select the tape based on what you plan to use it for.

For shipping boxes, it’s a good idea to use hot melt adhesive. It sticks really well and bonds quickly.
For packing moving boxes, acrylic adhesives are a great option. They hold strongly and work well in any temperature. This makes them perfect for moving or shipping no matter the season.
Natural rubber adhesives are also a good choice. They stick well on rough surfaces and in extreme temperatures. This makes them useful for tough packaging jobs.

5. Tape Width and Thickness

The width and thickness of packing tape affect how well it works and how long it lasts.

Width: Packing tape is usually 2 to 3 inches wide. A 2-inch tape works well for small to medium boxes while a 3-inch tape gives extra security for big packages.
Thickness: Thickness is measured in mils, which are thousandths of an inch. You can use 1.3 to 1.6 mil tape for lighter packaging. For heavier boxes that weigh 20 pounds or more, it is better to use tape that is 1.9 to 3.0 mils thick. This adds strength and durability.

6. Application Method

How you apply the tape can change how efficient and secure it is. For packing that is low to mid-volume, handheld dispensers are great. They let you apply tape quickly and easily. In high-volume situations, automated sealing machines need tapes that work well with the machines. These tapes help make sure performance is steady, efficient, and durable.

7. Tape Color

Color does not affect how strong a tape is. However, it can help with branding, keeping things organized, and making the tape easier to see.

Tan or clear packing tapes are the common options for regular use.
Colored tapes can help separate shipments or make warehouse organization better. Custom-printed tapes not only look professional but also help with security because they can show if there has been tampering.

Types of Packing Tapes For Shipping and Moving

Choosing the right kind of packing tape is very important for keeping packages safe and strong. There are different types of tape made for different uses. Each type has its own benefits, such as how well it sticks, how long it lasts, and how it holds up against things like heat and moisture. Knowing the main features of each type of tape will help businesses decide what they need for their packaging.

Common Carton Sealing Tapes

1. Acrylic Tape: Made from a water-based acrylic adhesive, this tape adheres well to various surfaces like cardboard, plastic, and metal. It offers good clarity, moisture resistance, and high UV resistance, making it suitable for general-purpose packaging and carton sealing applications.

2. Hot Melt Tape: Composed of synthetic rubber adhesive, hot melt tape provides superior holding power and is highly resistant to temperature fluctuations. It ensures quick and secure sealing, ideal for heavy-duty applications such as sealing bulky or heavy boxes. This type of tape is perfect for high-volume shipping operations.

3. Flatback Tapes: A kraft paper-backed tape with a rubber adhesive, flatback tape is strong and provides a secure hold on boxes. It is often used for carton sealing, splicing, and packaging applications that require a smooth and professional finish.

4. Filament Tape: This reinforced tape consists of a strong polypropylene backing with fiberglass filaments embedded within the adhesive, offering exceptional tensile strength and tear resistance. Filament tape is commonly used for bundling and reinforcing heavy items in industries like manufacturing and logistics.

5. Gummed Paper Tape: Also known as water-activated tape, water-activated tape forms a strong bond with carton surfaces when moistened, creating a solid and tamper-evident seal. Being starch-based, it’s environmentally friendly and suitable for sealing heavy packages securely. This tape is ideal for e-commerce and high-value shipments.

6. Masking Tape: A versatile, pressure-sensitive tape with a paper backing, masking tape is commonly used in painting, crafting, labeling, and lightweight packaging. It can be easily removed without leaving residue, making it ideal for temporary applications.

Specialty Tapes for Specific Applications

7. Tamper-Evident Security Tape: This type of tape shows clear signs if someone tries to open a package. When it is taken off, it leaves a mark or sticky residue. This means that unauthorized access has occurred. Using this tape is very important for shipping valuable items, private documents, or medicines. It helps stop theft and keeps the package secure during delivery.

8. Printed or Custom Branded Packing Tape: Businesses can use printed or custom-branded tape to boost their brand image. These personalized packing tapes can display logos, slogans, or special instructions for handling packages. This makes the package look better and adds another layer of security. This tape is used extensively in e-commerce, retail, and logistics to create a professional and recognizable brand.

9. Cold-Temperature Tape: Cold-temperature tape is made to stick well even when it’s very cold. Regular tapes may stop sticking when it’s freezing. However, this tape stays strong in cold storage and during transport. It’s often used in food, pharmaceuticals, and the cold supply chain to ensure safe packaging in low temperatures.

A wide range of pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes for all sorts of applications are available at MPI Matco. For help finding the right tape for your needs, talk to our experts!

Conclusion

Choosing the right packing tape, such as hot melt and paper packing tapes, ensures your boxes stay secure during moving or shipping. By considering factors like box weight and construction, storage and shipping conditions, adhesive type, tape’s width and thickness, and even color, you can select the best tape for your needs. Whether you require a heavy-duty packing tape for shipping or a reliable option for storage, the right tape makes all the difference.

Need help finding the perfect packaging tape? At MPI Matco, we’re specialists in industrial tapes and adhesives. We understand manufacturers’ needs for reliable packing solutions that meet their unique requirements. That’s why we offer custom-printed packaging tapes, die-cut services, and custom adhesive solutions. Explore our wide range of high-quality packaging tapes and contact us today to discuss your specific packaging needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of packing tape are best for commercial shipping?

The best packing tape for shipping depends on several factors. You need to think about how you will use it. You should also consider the weight of the package and the conditions during shipping. Here are the most common types:

Acrylic tape – This is great for keeping items safe for a long time and in various temperatures.
Hot melt tape – It sticks really well, making it perfect for shipping many items and handling them with care.
Water-activated (gummed) tape – This type of tape is ideal for creating tamper-proof and eco-friendly packages.
Reinforced filament tape – It works well for holding heavy boxes or bundling shipments.

How does packaging tape strength affect shipping durability?

Packing tape strength is very important to keep packages sealed when shipping. Strong tapes with good adhesion help prevent boxes from opening. This is helpful even if they are handled roughly, face temperature changes, or travel long distances. If you have heavier items to ship, it's best to use high-strength hot melt tape or reinforced filament tape.

What is the difference between acrylic, hot melt, and water-activated packing tape?

Acrylic tape: It is strong against aging, UV light, and changes in temperature. It works well for storage and everyday shipping.
Hot melt tape: This tape is very sticky and flexible, making it great for many kinds of shipping and handling.
Water-activated (gummed) tape: This tape creates a strong bond with cardboard. It shows if someone has opened it. It is eco-friendly and very strong, but requires a dispenser to use it.

Can packaging tape be customized with branding or security features?

Yes, packaging tapes can be customized with logos, branding, or security features. Custom packing tape options include:

Printed logo tape to enhance brand visibility.
Tamper-evident tape that shows signs of tampering if removed.
Security tapes with hidden messages that leave a residue if peeled off.
UV or thermal-sensitive tapes to indicate exposure to temperature extremes.

How do temperature and humidity affect packing tape adhesion?

Temperature and humidity can change how good packing tape sticks.

Cold weather can cause tape to break and lose its sticky feel. It's best to use hot melt tape made for cold temperatures.
High humidity can harm adhesion, especially for normal acrylic tape. A better choice here is a water-resistant hot melt or gummed tape.

Very high heat can make the glue soft and lessen its hold. It's a smart choice to go for heat-resistant tape.

Can duct tape be used as packing tape?

Duct tape can be used as a makeshift packing tape when needed, but it's not recommended for long-term or heavy-duty use. Packing tape is specifically designed for shipping and storage purposes, offering better adhesion, strength, and durability compared to duct tape. It's always best to use the right tool for the job to ensure your packages are securely sealed during transit.

What is the difference between packing tape, packaging tape and carton sealing tape?

The terms "packing tape," "packaging tape," and "carton sealing tape" are generally used interchangeably to refer to the same type of adhesive tape. There might be very slight nuances in how people use the terms, but for all practical purposes, they all describe tape designed for closing and securing boxes or packages.

Here's a little more detail:

Packing Tape: This is a very common and broad term for tape used in the process of packing items.
Packaging Tape: Very similar to packing tape, this term emphasizes the tape's role in securing a package.

Carton Sealing Tape: This term is more specific, highlighting the tape's primary use for sealing cardboard boxes (cartons).