The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Box Sealing Tape

Choosing the correct carton sealing tape for your specific packaging application can reduce product damage, decrease material waste, and increase efficiency. Corrugated cardboard boxes sealed with the proper tape maintain integrity during transport.

Understanding the Different Types of Carton Sealing Tape

Carton sealing tape comes in various widths, lengths, thicknesses, materials, and strengths, and it is important to select one that will properly seal your boxes.

Length & Width

It is always better to seal boxes with one strip of tape instead of multiple. If you are using two strips of 2-inch tape, using 3-inch tape instead can save time and money. Hand carton sealing tape typically comes in 55-yard or 110-yard rolls. Machine carton sealing tape ranges from 1000-2000 yards in length.

Tensile Strength & Elongation

Tensile strength is the force required to break a tape and elongation is the percentage a tape can be stretched just before breaking. Investing in tape with high tensile strength and elongation allows for a more productive taping process.

Adhesives

Carton sealing tapes have natural rubber, hot melt, or acrylic adhesive. Natural rubber adhesive is very flexible and optimal for low temperatures. Hot melt adhesives, also known as synthetic rubber, have quick stick bonding and long-lasting adhesive properties for packing overstuffed cartons or boxes made of high recycled content. Acrylic adhesives provide environmental resistance and have a faster setting time, making them ideal for long-term storage in varying temperatures.

Thickness

The weight and dimensions of a box help determine the mil thickness of box sealing tape that is needed. The typical rule is that the heavier and larger the box, the thicker the tape will be needed. Additionally, tapes with a thickness between 1.6 mil to 1.9 mil are designed to be economical while still providing great performance.

Best Tape for Cardboard Boxes

Best Economical Tape

The BestPack BG16 series hand and machine tape is a great entry-level tape that meets most packing needs and is fairly priced. 

Best Cold Environment Tape

The Vibac 6200 medium-duty tape, IPG 7151QT cold temperature tape, and 3M 311+ carton sealer tape are designed for cold environments. These tapes can be applied and stored in low-temperature environments, and come in both hand and machine-length rolls. 

Best Industrial Tape for Recycled Corrugate

The BestPack BG20 series tape and 3M 371+ packaging tape are formulated with high tack adhesive properties to ensure the highest security when sealing corrugated cartons.

Tips for Proper Application

Proper tape application is essential for sealing boxes. Whether you are hand sealing or using a case sealer, use these tips to ensure proper sealing. 

Hand Sealing

1. Make sure the tape is properly positioned and ready for unwinding.
2. While applying the tape, maintain tension on the tape by gently pulling it tight as you move along.
3. Ensure that the tape extends across the entire seam or edge being sealed to provide full coverage and reinforcement.

Machine Sealing

1. Make sure the tape is properly mounted on the tape head with proper core tension, centered on the rollers, and in good tape blade condition.
2. Adjust the settings of the case sealer to match the dimensions of the boxes.
3. Verify tape placement on the carton and adjust if needed.

If you are not sure if your tape is running optimally on your case sealer, contact our service team for assistance.

Not sure which tape is best for your application? 

Our team of packaging experts can help you find the best tape for your needs. Contact one of our packaging specialists to get started.