Are All Packing Tapes Created Equal?

Packing Tape

So what makes one style of
packing tape better than the next? There are a few factors that play into this mix.

One factor is the strength of the tape. This is controlled by the clear film (or backing as it’s referred to in the industry) which is made from polypropylene film or sometimes PVC film. Most tapes are made from polypropylene film and vary in thickness from 1.7 mil (light duty) to 3.0 mil (extra heavy duty). Obviously the the thicker the mil thickness of the film, the stronger the tape is going to perform. For economic reasons, most companies order the 1.7 mil or the 2.0 mil since it also works with most packaging applications.

The next factor that makes packing tapes different is the type of adhesive used on the tape. The most popular type is called hot-melt adhesive which works well with most packaging applications and temperatures. Acrylic adhesive is used creating ultra-clear appearance and offers the longest shelf-life of all packing tapes. Finally there is natural rubber adhesive, which is the most aggressive adhesive for applications where ultra stickiness is needed. Usually companies with dust issues or low temperatures find the natural rubber carton sealing tape the most effective.

The Advantages of Using Gummed Packaging Tape

Gummed tape is a type of packaging tape that’s also known as water activated packaging tape. It’s a type of tape that, like its name suggests, requires moistening in order to be applied. It’s most commonly used in packaging things like corrugated fiberboard boxes. Gummed packaging tape is an excellent cost-effective way to sturdily secure your packaging supplies.

 

This water activated sealant is capable of bonding to dusty surfaces and it’s even able to make your packages safer by offering extra reinforcement to corrugated shipping boxes. Because it bonds instantly, gummed packaging tape creates a tamper-evident seal, which adds to package security.

 

With using gummed packaging tape, you’ll typically be able to use less tape than you would if you were using normal packing tape. For a normal package, a single strip of gummed packaging tape will secure what several strips of regular packing tape would do. Tests show that the superior strength and sturdiness of gummed packaging tape means you’ll be able to seal up to 40% more boxes than with other tape. This makes gummed packaging tape great for saving time and money.

 

The water-sealing capabilities of gummed packaging tape also means that it’s great in extreme temperature conditions. Either in hot or cold areas, gummed packaging tape will not peel or loosen.

 

PackagingSupplies.com offers several types of gummed packaging tape. We offer light duty gummed packaging tape, which is reinforced three ways, all the way up to extra heavy duty gummed packaging tape, which is reinforced five ways. PackagingSupplies has the reinforced gummed packaging tape for whatever size packages you need to ship.