Which Type of Carton Sealing Tape is Best for Your Application?

Carton sealing tape is the most popular and cost-effective method for sealing corrugated boxes and ensuring that your packages arrive safely.

“With various types available in the market, selecting the appropriate carton sealing tape for your specific application can be a daunting task,” says Performance Packaging president Morty Chambers.

According to a recent market report, sales of carton sealing tape are slated to boom over the next decade as the global packing tape market rides the coattails of the current e-commerce wave.

“The increase in demand to secure and preserve shipments is the key reason driving the market growth,” said the FMI report. “As the e-commerce sector is growing at a quick pace, the market is growing at a rapid pace as well.”

The global packing tape market is slated to grow from $22.8 billion in 2023 to $36.5 billion by 2033, an annual growth rate of 4.8 percent.

What is Carton Sealing Tape?

Carton sealing tape, also known as packing tape or box tape, is a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape primarily used for sealing corrugated cardboard boxes and other packaging materials.

It plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of packages during transit, storage, and handling.

Carton sealing tapes typically come in two primary adhesive compositions:

• Acrylic: Acrylic carton sealing tape offers excellent clarity and UV resistance, making it ideal for applications where aesthetics or exposure to sunlight are a concern. It adheres well to a variety of surfaces and performs reliably in a wide range of temperatures.
• Hot Melt Rubber (HMR): Hot melt rubber carton sealing tape delivers superior adhesion and quick tack properties, making it suitable for sealing boxes with recycled content or irregular surfaces. It exhibits excellent holding power and performs exceptionally well in cold temperatures.

Color-wise, carton sealing tape predominantly comes in clear and tan variations, catering to different aesthetic preferences and visibility requirements.

Standard widths typically range from 2 to 3 inches, while thicknesses are measured in mils (a unit of thickness equal to one thousand of an inch), offering options ranging from standard duty to heavy-duty applications.

Performance Packaging, for example, carries carton sealing tape in thickness ranging from 1.6 mils to 3.0 mils.

Considerations for Choosing Carton Sealing Tape

When it comes to packaging, the adhesive tape used to seal cartons might seem like a small detail, but it plays a significant role in ensuring the integrity of shipments.

Choosing the right carton sealing tape involves considering various factors to meet the specific needs of your application. Here are some key considerations:

• Carton Size: The size of the carton dictates the width and thickness of the tape required for effective sealing.
• Carton Weight: Heavier packages may necessitate thicker and stronger tape to withstand the load.
• Production and Shipping Environment: Consider factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and exposure to moisture or UV light.
• Surface Texture: Smooth or rough surfaces may influence the choice of adhesive composition for optimal bonding.
• Application Speed: For high-speed packaging lines, tapes with quick tack properties can enhance efficiency.
• Environmental Impact: Eco-friendly options such as water-based acrylic adhesives may be preferred for sustainability initiatives.

By carefully evaluating these considerations, businesses can ensure that their packaging solutions are not only secure but also efficient and tailored to their unique requirements.

Applications and Corresponding Carton Sealing Tape

From e-commerce to industrial manufacturing, the diverse range of applications requiring carton sealing tape underscores its importance in various industries.

Each application presents its own set of challenges and demands, necessitating specific types of carton sealing tape to ensure optimal performance.

“Whether it's for fragile items, heavy-duty shipments, or specialized industries like food and pharmaceuticals, selecting the right tape is crucial for maintaining product integrity and customer satisfaction,” advises Chambers.

By understanding the requirements of each application and choosing the appropriate carton sealing tape accordingly, businesses can enhance their packaging processes and streamline their operations for maximum efficiency and reliability.

Let’s look at 20 common applications and the carton sealing tape that might best be appropriate:

• Artwork Shipping: Thick acrylic tape for securing packages containing valuable artwork, providing strong adhesion and protection during transit.
• Automotive Parts: Thick acrylic tape for its resilience against oils and chemicals.
• Chemical Industry: Hot melt rubber tape with chemical-resistant properties for securely sealing packages containing hazardous materials, providing a reliable barrier against leaks or spills.
• Cold Storage: Hot melt rubber tape for its excellent adhesion in low temperatures.
• Construction Materials: Thick hot melt rubber tape for sealing heavy-duty boxes containing construction materials.
• Cosmetics Packaging: Clear acrylic tape for sealing boxes containing delicate cosmetic products without compromising visual appeal.
• E-commerce Packaging: Acrylic tape for its clarity and professional presentation.
• Electronics Packaging: Acrylic tape for static-free sealing to prevent damage to sensitive components.
• Food Packaging: Acrylic tape with food-safe adhesive for direct contact with consumables.
• Fragile Items: Acrylic tape for its gentle adhesive to protect delicate surfaces.
• Heavy-duty Shipments: Thick acrylic tape for added strength and durability.
• Industrial Machinery: Hot melt rubber tape for its high-strength bonding on rough surfaces.
• Medical Supplies: Acrylic tape with hypoallergenic adhesive for sterile environments.
• Moving Boxes: Hot melt rubber tape for secure sealing of various surfaces.
• Pet Supplies: Acrylic tape with odor-neutralizing features for sealing packages containing pet food and supplies, maintaining freshness, and preventing odors during transit.
• Pharmaceuticals: Acrylic tape with tamper-evident features for secure packaging of medications.
• Retail Displays: Clear acrylic tape for seamless sealing without obstructing product visibility.
• Textile Industry: Hot melt rubber tape for its flexibility and tear resistance.
• Warehouse Storage: Acrylic tape for long-term storage due to UV resistance.
• Wine and Spirits: Tan acrylic tape with moisture-resistant properties for sealing boxes containing bottles, ensuring they remain intact and protected from environmental factors.

By understanding the requirements of each application and choosing the appropriate carton sealing tape accordingly, businesses can enhance their packaging processes and streamline their operations for maximum efficiency and reliability.

Contact Performance Packaging today for customized packaging solutions that can help your operations generate efficiency, value, and sustained results.