"Packing tape" is one of the most basic requirements of the packaging industry. Packing tape is used to seal, wrap, or bundle items while they are being stored, handled, or shipped.
Packing tapes come in a variety of styles. They also differ in terms of material, strength, thickness, width, and so on. With so many options available, deciding on the best tape for your business can be difficult.
Here's a quick guide to understanding the different types of packaging tapes.
Different Types of Packaging Tape Explored
Packing tapes are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, even paper and plastic tapes can be classified based on their intended use. Tapes are also classified according to the materials and adhesives used. Here is a list of popular tapes used in businesses.
1. Box Tape or BOPP Packing Tape
Box tapes, also known as bi-axially polypropylene tapes, are medium-strength tapes used for a variety of applications, most notably sealing corrugated boxes. These tapes are transparent, brown in color, and can be easily customized with patterns or branding.
Because these Brown tapes do not require the application of water to activate, they can be used anywhere.
2. Lightweight Packing Tape
Polyester plastic tapes and paper tapes are ideal for sealing and enclosing light packages weighing less than 15kg. It usually has a pressure-sensitive adhesive and is easy to handle and apply.
3. Heavy-Duty Packing Tape
Heavy-duty tapes are used for boxes weighing 20 to 30 kilograms. PVC tapes are commonly used for this purpose, but paper tapes reinforced with fiberglass can also be used. These tapes provide electrical and chemical insulation and are frequently used for electronic packaging.
4. Tamper-Evident Tape
Tamper-evident tapes or security packaging tapes are used to detect package tampering. They can be used to ensure the authenticity of the contents of a box, to prevent adulteration, or to indicate a breach. When peeled, such tapes are difficult to tear away and leave behind the printed text.
5. Scotch Tape
Scotch tape is extremely common. They adhere easily to packages and are particularly useful for adhering to paper. They are water-resistant, inexpensive, and portable.
6. Gummed Packing Tape
Gummed packing tapes are paper tapes that are also known as Kraft paper tape. They are used for both lightweight and heavy-weight cartons (with reinforcement). Unlike plastic tapes, gummed packing tapes are graded based on box weight. In addition, they are slightly more expensive and wider than plastic tapes.
Gummed tapes, on the other hand, are ideal when security is of the utmost importance. They are difficult to peel away and leave behind evidence of tampering. They also provide a sustainable packaging solution.
Another advantage of gummed tape is that it can be applied easily and without pressure, making it suitable for fragile boxes.
7. Double-Sided Tape
Both sides of the double-sided tape are coated with pressure-sensitive adhesive. It is intended to adhere to both surfaces and works especially well with paper, wood, or plastic. When it comes to construction, they are more aesthetically pleasing than glue.
8. Masking Tape
Masking tape is used to protect surfaces from paint when painting. The tape prevents the paint from being applied to the area covered by the tape. Specialty masking tape can withstand direct sunlight and high temperatures.
9. Duct Tape
When packing corrugated boxes for shipment, duct tape comes in handy. They are frequently used in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry.
10. Strapping Tape
Filament tape or strapping tape can withstand several hundred pounds of pressure. They are extremely strong and are frequently used to bundle items or reinforce packages.
Customizing Packaging Tapes
Packing tapes can be customized in terms of length, width, and thickness, and they can even be printed on. The print could be used to add information about the contents of the box or handling—for example, a tape that says "fragile" could indicate that the box must be handled with care and —or it could be used for branding. These types of tapes are known as fragile tapes.
When it comes to appearance, paper tapes are either kraft or white. They are ideal for brands with earthy tones or monochromatic color schemes. Poly tapes, which are also known as clear tapes, make them ideal for brands with eye-catching graphics.
How to select the right packaging tape for you.
When it comes to picking the right packaging tape, you have to take into account several factors - such as the weight and dimensions of the package, the stability of the package contents, security requirements, strength of the box, and shipping methods.
It all boils down to your needs and specifications. Choosing the best tape for the job can save you a lot of time and trouble. So, always invest in the right tape!
If you are looking for the best packaging tape for your e-commerce business, then crystal mailing is the best choice for you. For any help or queries, reach our executives.
Thank you.