Which Type of Tape Works Best for Packaging Boxes

Isn’t it frustrating when we see a message saying “received in damaged condition”? Or even worse, when it looks like the package got beat up by the time it reached us? That often happens when people forget to use a very cardinal tool of packaging: the tape. When a package bursts open in the middle of shipping, it is annoying. Because it translates into a bad image of the brand. It also means damaged goods and expensive replacements. So, understand that the key to keeping things closed is choosing the right tape. The right kind of packaging tape is the hero of logistics that saves the day. But which one will suit your needs with precision?
In this blog, you will get to learn about different types of packaging tapes. It will help you choose the right one so that the package arrives at the doorstep in perfect condition.

The critical role of choosing the correct tape

Safety: A weak tape will make theft more likely because it is easy to peel off or cut. To avoid such a circumstance, you should use a strong, tamper-evident tape.

Lasting power: Your package will travel long distances with a different range of temperatures. While stacking or throwing it around, you will also expose it to multiple levels of humidity. A good packing tape will withstand this kind of abuse without splitting, peeling, or breaking down.

Weight: Moreover, not all tapes can deal with heavy weights. To handle big loads, you should not use thin tapes. Because it will give way by breaking or stretching, leading to your things falling out.
The first thing that a customer notices is the box. Remember, it represents your brand. A box that is sealed with a strong tape looks professional. As a mobile marketing tool, custom printed tape will carry your message to people all the way to their door.

The top three contenders for the “best packaging tape”

When you shop, you need to know that there are different types of tape. When the question is of skilled shipping, be it glue technology or the purpose of packing, there are three clear winners:

Acrylic Tape

It is also called sealing tape. It is the most commonly known tape, which is clear or tan-colored, used in all offices and mailrooms. One advantage of using this tape is that it gives wonderful clarity because it will not cover up the writing of the label underneath. Secondly, it will not break down under the sun because it has great resistance to UV Light and aging. Thus, increases the storage time of the boxes. Thirdly, it is affordable and saves money. Lastly, it is not only cheap, but it has strong adhesion as it sticks to most types of boards and boxes.
On the contrary, it is temperature sensitive, so in hot or cold temperatures, it might not work well. In hot temperatures, the glue can go soft, or in cold temperatures, it can break up or stop sticking altogether. Thus, it is best used for office moves, e-commerce sales, general shipping, and sealing light to medium weight boxes kept in climate-controlled places.

Hot Melt Tape

Used in tougher situations, the hot melt tape is a type of packing tape which is also called synthetic rubber tape. It is named after glue, made of synthetic rubber, which is placed as the back of the tape while it is still molten. It causes a strong immediate adhesion. It is good because it sticks to the cardboard right away which means it has better initial tack. This quick and sturdy adhesion makes it unique. Moreover, it can withstand a wide range of temperatures. So, the best packaging company which do not have climate control or ship all year round in different seasons, this type of packaging tape is more suitable. Furthermore, on recycled boxes, the hot melt tape forms a strong link and works greater than others.
However, if packages sealed with hot melt tape are left in full sunlight for long, the tape will turn yellow or break. It’s not the ideal option to store boxes for a long time when they will be exposed to light. Therefore, it is best used on boxes that are medium to heavy weight boxes.

Water-Activated Tape

Referred to as the gold standard or sturdiness, it is also called gummed tape. It comes alive when you add water. This kind of packaging tape is made of paper that is often reinforced with fiberglass filaments. When it dries, the glue isn’t very sticky, but when you wet it, it sticks very well. It is good for packing because of its “fusing” bond. It not only sticks the tape to the box, but it actually joins the two together. Furthermore, it makes a permanent seal as the glue fuses deep into the cardboard threads of the box. This strong fusing bond makes it tamper-evident. Which means that the tape cannot be taken off without damaging the box.
But one downside is that it needs a special dispenser which costs more. It takes longer to apply on the packages and comparatively more expensive than acrylic and hot melt tape. It is best used for valuable or heavy duty shipments. Brands that ship with their own logo and offer the highest level of protection uses it.

Masking Tape

Apart from acrylic, hot melt, and water-activated tape, there are two other types of packing tapes. One is masking tape and the other is duct tape. Masking tape is a type of paper adhesive tape that you can tear easily with your hand. Instead of shipping, it is solely used to protect surfaces while painting walls, furniture, or cars. This tape comes in a variety of colors, thickness, and width. Plus, some types of masking tapes are heat-resistant, too. Therefore, it is safe to use them for baking.

Duct Tape

This is a three-layered adhesive tape that is flexible and water-resistant. Its three-layered structure includes a top PE film, a middle fabric layer, and a rubber adhesive on the bottom. It is more of a household packaging tape used to make general repair or leakages.

Which tapes not to use on shipping boxes

It is a common misconception on people’s part that any tape will do the job. Your local hardware store might have different types of tape, but not all of them are made to ship. Choosing between duct tape vs. packaging tape is easy. Duct tape is for fixing things, not covering them. Its adhesive dries out quickly and peels off the cardboard packaging boxes easily. Similarly, in masking tape vs. packaging tape, you should remember that the former is a painter’s best friend because it can be taken off after holding things in place temporarily.

Conclusion

There are multiple ways to secure the safety of products during shipping. However, using packaging tapes is the most durable and cost-effective solution. The above blog has explained the variety of tapes that you can find in the market. Get the one that suits your needs. However, if you are looking for a supplier to buy packing tapes. Then, Boxit Packages is at your service. We customize tapes with colors and patterns to give a memorable unboxing experience to the customer. So order today!