Different Types of Packaging Tape and When To Use It

For the average hobbyist, investigating different types of packaging tape and when to use it might seem overwhelming. However, the truth of the matter is that tape is the last line of defense that your outgoing parcel has against handling, weather, and other damage. As such, it's essential to know the best kinds of tape and why it's helpful to keep a roll of each.

Shipping Tape

For many people, understanding the different types of packaging tape and when to use it starts and stops with shipping tape. Few realize that despite the name, shipping tape isn't always ideal for use on parcels, though. This is because it's just about the most common tape anyone can find, making it accessible and affordable. In reality, though, it's not very water-resistant, and it's typically very flimsy. This tape is best for a quick seal that you don’t need to last long or endure stress.

Carton Sealing Tape

The most useful variety of tape for professionals is, without a doubt, carton sealing tape. Like shipping tape, it's ideal for quickly and effectively sealing up packages and parcels of all sorts. However, it's significantly more resilient, making it a much more reliable seal. In other words, there's no chance of a box breaking open or the tape peeling away due to inclement weather. Furthermore, this tape stays in place for years, making it the go-to choice for warehouses and large-scale commercial operations.

Paper Tape

Another practical form of tape that businesses and entrepreneurs enjoy is paper tape. One common example of this type is ordinary masking tape, also known as painter's tape. It's best used for temporary seals and quickly creates a writable surface. The other more widely used parcel-safe variety comes reinforced with string. The result is a tape that's resilient and more environmentally friendly. As such, it's an excellent choice for high-volume businesses looking to reduce the impact they have on the ecosystem due to their reliance on plastic-based tapes alone.