Wayfair
Packing tape is a crucial item to have on hand for various reasons, including mailing packages, returning unwanted online orders, and moving. However, not all packing tapes are created equal, and it’s essential to choose the right type to prevent any possible damage to your belongings during transit.
When it comes to selecting the appropriate packing tape, there are several factors to consider. For instance, polypropylene tape with pressure-sensitive adhesive is a popular choice for its durability and strength. In contrast, water-activated paper tape is ideal for those looking for an eco-friendly option that is also tamper-evident.
Moreover, the price of the packing tape is also a critical factor to consider. While some may opt for cheaper tapes, it’s essential to keep in mind that quality packing tape can make a significant difference in preventing damages and keeping your belongings safe.
In summary, the importance of choosing the right packing tape cannot be overstated. It’s crucial to consider the type of tape and its adhesive, as well as the price, to ensure that your items arrive safely and intact.
PERFECTAPE Heavy Duty Packing Tape 6 Rolls, Total 360Y, Clear, 2.7 mil, 1.88 inch x 60 Yards
T-Rex Packing Tape
Duck HP260 High-Performance Packaging Tape, 6 per Pack
Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape, 1.88″ x 54.6 yd, Designed for Packing, Shipping and Mailing, Strong Seal on All Box Types, 3″ Core, Clear, 6 Rolls
Gorilla Heavy Duty Large Core Packing Tape for Moving, Shipping and Storage, 1.88″ x 40 yd, Clear (Pack of 6)
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
There are a few important factors to bear in mind when selecting the right packing tape. Paper and plastic packing tape are two popular kinds of tape. Paper packing tape is simple to tear by hand, recyclable, and similar to masking tape. Depending on the adhesive used, it may take less tape to seal a box than plastic tape. It can be reinforced with substances like fiberglass to make it stronger. On the other hand, plastic packing tape is extremely adaptable and frequently composed of polyester or polypropylene. It doesn’t obscure printed material when used over it, is lightweight, and is cheap. However, cutting without an instrument can be challenging.
The kind of adhesive that is used in the tape is a further essential consideration. The most popular adhesive is acrylic, which can withstand high temps and UV radiation. It works best when used with a dispenser and is sturdy but can be challenging to unfurl. Although hot melt or rubber glue is quicker to unroll and apply to a surface, it is less long-lasting than acrylic and is typically used for temporary applications. Water-activated adhesive is extremely strong, bonds with the package, and creates a tamper-evident seal only needing moisture to adhere. It costs more, though, and special receptacles are needed.
In conclusion, the best packing tape will rely on your individual needs and demands. The sort of tape material, the adhesive type, and the application requirements are factors to take into account. You can make sure that your packages and belongings are safely and firmly sealed for transit or storage by selecting the appropriate tape.
FEATURES
There are a number of features to think about when buying packing tape to make sure you get the correct tape for the job. Important considerations include the tape’s length, breadth, and thickness as well as whether or not it is reinforced or tamper-evident.
Packing tape comes in yards-long rolls, so investing in a longer roll will offer you more tape for your money. The tape’s breadth also matters because wider tape can support more weight. However, the strength of the tape is not always determined by its width. It matters more how much surface area the tape covers and how strong the glue is.
Choose reinforced tape that has been combined with fibers like fabric or fiberglass if you need a stronger adhesive. There is also tamper-evident tape, which creates a trail indicating that the box has been opened.
Bulk purchases can save money, but there are also options for personalization. Businesses can choose to have tape with customized logos or particular colors, but this will cost more. Even pre-printed tape with phrases like “Fragile” or “Packing List Enclosed” is available.
Last but not least, some makers add extra features to their tape to increase its appeal, such as an easy start or tear or even a free tape dispenser. By keeping these things in mind, you can choose the best packing tape for your requirements and make sure your packages get to their location safely.
ACCESSORIES
Having the proper tools can make all the difference when using packaging tape. While many kinds of tape already have an applicator, there are a few other things that might be useful.
A necessary instrument for cutting the tape to the required length is a pair of scissors. An excellent alternative are the Amazon Basics Multipurpose Office Scissors. With their titanium-fused construction and comfort-grip design, this set of three inexpensive shears makes it simple to cut through packing tape.
The Scotch Heavy-Duty Packing Tape Dispenser is a high-end choice if you desire a tape dispenser. This dispenser includes two rolls of three-inch Scotch packaging tape and is made to make it simple for you to prepare boxes.
Utility knives are a fantastic choice for those who require a tool that can open boxes after they have been taped. The CRAFTSMAN Utility Knife comes in a two-pack and can be used for various tasks. The retractable blade’s three positions can assist to guarantee safer cutting.
Purchasing the appropriate accessories will make packing and sending merchandise easier and more seamless.
PACKING TAPE PRICES
Moving or shipping requires the use of packing tape, which is a required item. However, a number of variables can affect the tape’s price. Depending on the size, width, adhesive type, dispenser, and additional features like simple tear or easy start, a single length of packing tape can cost anywhere from $4 to $14.
The best course of action is to purchase tape in quantity if you anticipate using more than one roll. While the cost of a multi-pack of packing tape can range from $10 to $30, the cost per roll is much lower, making it a much superior deal. For instance, a box of six rolls of packing tape might only cost $30 as opposed to a single roll’s price of $13.
It’s essential to factor in the extra cost of accessories like scissors, tape dispensers, and utility knives when estimating the cost of packing tape. While some tape rolls include receptacles, others might need to be purchased separately. While a pack of three inexpensive scissors can be bought for as little as $7, a high-end tape dispenser can range in price from $10 to $20. Furthermore, the price of a two-pack of utility blades can range from $10 to $20.
In the end, the price of packing tape and its extras will rely on your individual requirements and spending limit. However, investing in high-quality accessories and buying tape in quantity can help you save money over time while also simplifying the packing and moving process.
TIPS
Anyone who needs to ship or store items requires packing tape as a tool. The following advice will help you choose the ideal packaging tape for your requirements:
Think about the tensile strength, which measures how much pulling the tape can endure before rupturing. If you’re packing heavy items or need additional durability, look for packing tape with a high tensile strength.
Consider the term “elongation,” which describes how much a piece of tape can extend before breaking. A tape that has a high elongation percentage is flexible and can fit irregular forms.
Examine the inner size: The inside diameter of a length of packing tape is its core size. Make sure you select tape with a compatible core measurement because most tape dispensers are made to fit 3-inch cores.
Pay heed to the backing material: The tape’s strength and durability come from the backing material. The majority of packing tape is composed of paper, polyester, or polypropylene. Pick the substance that best meets your requirements.
By following these suggestions, you can select the ideal packing tape for your job and make sure that your belongings are safely packed and prepared for transport.
FAQ
You might be curious about packing tape’s advantages and disadvantages if you’re searching for information on it. Following are responses to some common queries about packaging tape:
Does packaging tape ever go bad?
Yes, packing tape has a shelf life. The tape’s sticky glue has a finite shelf life, and the substance holding the adhesive can eventually dry out and become brittle. If you use expired tape, it might not adhere correctly or be completely useless. Depending on how it will be used, packaging tape has a different life expectancy. Select a tape made for temporary holding if you’re using it for shipment. Select a tape that will last for at least 10 years if the things will be stored.
Is packaging tape water resistant?
A: Although plastic packing tape might appear weatherproof or waterproof, it’s essential to keep in mind that only one side of the tape actually repels water. Water weakens the adhesive and renders tape less stickable once it makes its way around the tape’s surface, much like how cardboard from a package absorbs water.
Is there a distinction between duct tape and packaging tape?
A: Duct tape and packing tape do vary from one another. A strip of paper, polypropylene, or polyester with adhesive on one side is the usual material used to make packing tape. Contrarily, duct tape has three layers: cloth, rubber-based adhesive, and plastic. The tape is made stronger and simpler to tear by hand thanks to the cotton cloth sandwiched between the plastic and the adhesive. Because duct tape is more adaptable and has a stronger hold than the other two tapes, it is suitable for a broader variety of applications even though both tapes can be used to seal boxes.
