Packaging tape while small, is an important piece of the packaging puzzle. Make sure your shipping cartons are securely sealed by choosing the right one for your application.
I'm sure we've all picked up a roll of packaging tape before and said, "this’ll do!”, only to not have it hold the carton together and having to scramble to keep it contained. Despite popular belief, this often isn’t a question of quality but rather the type of packing tape you’re using for the application.
There are three main types of tape adhesives you’ll find on the market, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and acrylic. We dive into their differences to help you choose the best one for the job.
Natural Rubber Tape
Natural Rubber Tape as the name suggests uses a natural rubber adhesive that has a high initial tack and aggressive adhesion that will bond to most materials, including recycled cardboard. This makes it the ideal choice for short term applications where the carton is consistently being handled and moved, such as general shipping, or dusty application environments.
Signet has a selection of Natural Rubber Tapes in stock and available in both hand and machine rolls. Signet has both clear packing tape and brown packing tape that range from 24mm-72mm wide.
Synthetic Rubber Tape
Similarly to its natural counterpart, Synthetic Rubber Tape, also known as Hot Melt Tape, has a high initial tack and is great for general shipping applications. Although the adhesive isn’t quite as aggressive as Natural Rubber, Synthetic Rubber has a greater temperature range and is typically the more cost-effective option.
Signet stocks a range of Hot Melt Tapes in both hand and machine rolls and comes in 36mm and 48mm widths (up to 75mm in machine tape). Like their natural mate, Signet has both brown packing tape and clear packing tape available in the Hot Melt range.
Looking for a sustainable alternative? Check out our Kraft Paper Tape, which combines a synthetic rubber adhesive with a natural kraft paper backing and is 100% recyclable! So, you don’t have to remove it from the carton before putting it in your kerbside recycling bin.
Acrylic Tape
Acrylic Tape uses a water-based acrylic adhesive that’s tacky by nature and super durable. While it can withstand short term applications in ambient temperatures, it’s best known for its ability to perform in low temperature environments such as cold rooms and freezers.
Signet’s Acrylic Tapes are also available in both hand and machine rolls and come in 36mm and 48mm widths. Like their sticky companions, they also offer the choice of brown packing tape and clear packing tape.
Top Tip! Apply the packaging tape before the goods are refrigerated to achieve the best adhesion.
Water Activated Tape
If you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact, check out the new kid on the block, Water Activated Paper Tape. This eco-friendly alternative combines a natural kraft paper with a starch-based adhesive, that when combined with water activates to penetrate the fibers of the carton, creating a secure and sustainable seal.
Better yet, it’s 100% biodegradable and recyclable, so no need to remove it from the carton when recycling.
How to get the most from your packaging tape
While the type of tape is a key factor in ensuring a secure seal on your carton and how you apply it is just as, if not more important. Here are some of our top tips to getting the most effective seal out of your packaging tape.
- Avoid stretching the tape and apply in an even downward pressure
- Apply tape in a dust-free environment and wipe away any dust and dirt that has settled on the carton before applying
- Store away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry environment to maintain the adhesive's effectiveness
So, whether you’re storing goods in a cold room or shipping a product halfway across the country, picking the right tape for the job will ensure your carton is sealed shut.
If you need more of a hand finding which tape you should use to seal your carton, check out our Packaging Tape Hub or call 13 7446, email sales@signet.net.au, Live Chat with us at signet.net.au, or submit an enquiry through the form below.
