What is packing tape? What is packing tape made of?

Packaging tape is one of the most useful general purpose tapes to have around the home, office, shop or warehouse. It provides peace of mind when sending items through the post, or for distribution.

 Our buyer’s guide will help you understand the features, uses and applications for packaging tape. Read on to find out more.

What is adhesive packing tape?

Packing tape, or packaging tape, is adhesive tape that is applied to boxes, parcels, bags or other packages to keep the contents safe and secure during transport. It is used to seal the seams of boxes to stop the contents from coming out, and to prevent cardboard edges from lifting. 

Packing tape is usually brown, but clear and coloured tape is also available. 

Brown packaging tape

Brown packaging tape is most commonly used to seal cardboard boxes and packages. It’s a reliable all-purpose tape.

Clear packaging tape

Clear packaging tape is a versatile tape that can be used for general purposes. 

Fragile packaging tape

Fragile packaging tape is used to easily identify packages that should be handled with care, to prevent breakages.

What is packing tape made of?

Standard packing tape is made of OPP (oriented polypropylene) film with acrylic adhesive, while paper packing tape is made of kraft paper with a natural rubber adhesive. 

What are the features and benefits of packing tape?

Packing tape is:

• Strong, durable, adhesive and flexible

• Easy to cut and apply to multiple surfaces

• Works in cold to hot temperatures

• UV and moisture-resistant

What is the difference between packing tape and shipping tape?

There is no difference between shipping tape and packing tape. Shipping tape is an alternative name for packing tape. 

Is brown tape stronger than clear tape?

There is no difference in strength between brown packaging tape and clear packaging tape. Both tapes are 40 microns thick and have a tensile strength of ≥ 24 N/cm.

How to apply packing tape

Packing tape is really easy to apply. Follow these instructions to learn how to apply packing tape:

1. Simply peel off the length you need, and use a pair of scissors to cut the tape

2. Then apply it to the package, being careful to seal it properly.

3. You may want to apply several layers of tape to make it even more secure. Applying it in a criss-cross pattern over seams helps to keep boxes from caving in if they are placed under other items. 

If you’re packing multiple boxes or parcels, we recommend using a tape dispenser gun. The dispenser gun holds a roll of tape of either 66m or 150m in length, and makes packing quicker and easier. 

What tape is best for packaging?

Choosing the best tape for packaging depends on the size, contents and weight of the box or parcel you need to send. 

• Standard packaging tape is our recommended choice for most deliveries 

• If you’re looking to be more eco-friendly, our brown paper packaging tape is ideal because it is recyclable, unlike the acrylic tape. 

• Fragile packing tape is used to help identify packages with breakable contents, so is a good choice if you’re sending something which is easily damaged.

What are the different types of packing tape?

The table below shows the features, technical information and uses of our packaging tapes.

Tape	Features	Technical Information	Image
Fragile packaging tape	Bright red print gives clear indication to users that boxes contain breakable items Thicker than standard packing tape  UV and Moisture resistant adhesive ensures a strong, durable seal and won't yellow when exposed to UV for longer periods	Total thickness: 45mic (±2) Width: 48mm Length: 66m Adhesive: Acrylic Tensile strength: ≥ 24 N/cm Adhesive to steel: ≥ 1.6 N/cm Rolling ball tack: ≥ 8 (ball no.) Temperature rating: 0°C to +60°C
Standard acrylic brown packaging tape	High adhesion packing tape Longer than average  UV and moisture resistant Won’t yellow when exposed to UV for long periods	Total thickness: 40mic (±2) Width: 48mm Length: 66m Adhesive: Acrylic Tensile strength≥ 24 N/cm Adhesive to steel≥ 1.6 N/cm Rolling ball tack≥ 8 (ball no.) Temperature rating: 0°C to +60°C
Standard acrylic clear packaging tape	High adhesion packing tape Longer than average  UV and moisture resistant Won’t yellow when exposed to UV for long periods	Total thickness: 40mic (±2) Width: 48mm Length: 66m Adhesive: Acrylic Tensile strength≥ 24 N/cm Adhesive to steel≥ 1.6 N/cm Rolling ball tack≥ 8 (ball no.) Temperature rating: 0°C to +60°C
Brown paper packaging tape	Paper tape Easy to tear by hand and can be written on Recyclable	Length: 50m Thickness: 60gsm Material: Kraft paper with natural rubber adhesive

 

How much does packing tape cost?

Acrylic packaging tape is the lowest priced tape we sell, available from £4.79 for a pack of six rolls. 

Our fragile packing tape costs £8.15 for a pack of six, while our eco-friendly tape is available from £1.19 per roll. 

Where can I buy packing tape?

We sell a range of packaging tapes and accessories. If you have any more questions about our packaging tapes, or any other tape products, please get in touch and contact us via live chat, email or telephone.