Packing tape packaging guide
Packing tape application
Packing tape is activated by pressure. By applying pressure to the tape, the adhesive is activated, bonding properly with the surface to be adhered too. The better you press packaging tape down the better it sticks.
It is important to use a cello tape dispenser which applies the packaging tape with a roller to press it down. Firm, consistent pressure should be applied for best results.
Curing time is the time the tape takes reaches its maximum adhesion. Most adhesive tapes the adhesive is time sensitive and needs to be given a chance to bond with the opposing surface.
Applying tape to heavy boxes
To apply tape to heavy boxes use the following steps:
- Bring down the flaps of the box.
- Start with a holding strap of tape across the flaps to hold them in position.
- Run a length of packaging tape along the length of these so the join is under the middle of the tape.
- The packing tape should run 50 to 75mm over the edge onto both ends of the box.
- The packing tape is pressed firmly down onto the box to ensure good adhesion.
Tape construction
Packaging tapes consist of a backing material known as the carrier and a layer of adhesive attached to one side.
The most common types of carrier are PVC, polypropylene and kraft paper.
Polypropylene and kraft paper based tapes have a lower environmental impact when compared with PVC based tapes.
Selecting the correct packing tape
![]() | Polyprop vibac tape |
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![]() | Double sided polyprop tape |
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![]() | Double sided carpet tape |
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![]() | Masking tape |
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![]() | Poly cloth tape |
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![]() | Polyprop acrylic tape |
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![]() | Neck sealing tape |
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![]() | Crossweave tape |
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![]() | Polyprop fragile tape |
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![]() | PVC insulation tape |
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![]() | Gummed paper tape |
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![]() | Kapton heat resistant tape |
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Common packing tape terms
Tensile strength: Measures the force required to pull something to the point where it breaks.
Backing material: Material of a tape the adhesive is applied to - i.e. vinyl, cloth or polypropylene.
Elongation: How far a tape can stretch before it breaks.
Core size: The inside roll diameter of a tape.
Vinyl or polypropylene tape?
Vinyl tapes: Can not be torn by hand. Requires a dispenser and will work down to 2°C.
Polypropylene tapes: Adhesive tape that can be torn by hand and withstand extreme temperatures.
Recommended tape application by material
Below is a list of typical applications and recommended tapes.
In all cases the surface must be clean, dry, free of oil, grease, dirt, dust, fibres etc.
Cardboard |
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Cardboard in high temperature |
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Paper |
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Paper in high temperature |
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Polythene |
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Plastics |
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Packing tape packaging guide last updated: Nov-2021