From acrylic to eco-friendly Kraft tape, discover the different types of packaging tapes, their strengths, and which one will keep your packages secure in any condition.
The Complete Packaging Tape Guide
When it comes to shipping, storage, and sealing, the right tape makes all the difference. While all packaging tapes share a similar poly substrate, their adhesives are what set them apart. Understanding the types, strengths, and best uses will help you choose the most reliable solution for your needs.
Acrylic Adhesive Tape – Affordable and Practical for Short-Term Use
Acrylic tape is the budget-friendly entry point in packaging solutions. It delivers a solid initial bond to cartons and plastics, making it ideal for quick-turnaround shipping. However, it’s not built for the long haul, its adhesive can weaken over time, especially in hot conditions like summer warehouses. Perfect for daily dispatch, but not for long-term storage.
Hotmelt Adhesive Tape – Dependable for Cold Storage and General Packaging
Hotmelt tape, despite the name, doesn’t require heat. Instead, it uses a synthetic rubber adhesive that offers a stronger, longer-lasting grip than acrylic. It performs especially well in cooler environments, such as refrigerated storage, and is a go-to choice for automated carton sealing in industries like food and beverage.
Rubber Solvent Adhesive Tape – Premium Strength for Tough Conditions
With its signature honey-gold colour, rubber solvent tape is the high-performance option. Thanks to its natural rubber adhesive, it bonds firmly, even to dusty or recycled cardboard. It withstands both heat and cold, making it the most versatile choice for demanding packaging conditions.
Hybrid Adhesive Tapes – Balanced Performance at a Better Price
Hybrid tapes combine acrylic and rubber solvent adhesives, offering solid performance across most applications without the premium cost.
Sizes and Formats to Suit Any Job
Packaging tapes are available in various widths and lengths:
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Widths: 12mm, 19mm, 24mm (stationery), 36mm, 48mm, 72mm (packaging)
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Lengths: 66m (printed hand tape), 75m (standard), 100–150m (e-tape rolls)
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Machine tape: 48mm x 1000m is standard, with 72mm and 2000m options available for special applications.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Tapes
Sustainability is driving innovation in tape technology. Options like biodegradable tape and Kraft paper-based tapes are growing in popularity.
Kraft Tape / Water-Activated Tape (WAT): Available in 50–70mm widths, with reinforced versions offering extra strength. Activated with water via a dispenser, WAT is a favourite for large online retailers due to its durability during extended freight handling.
Tape Dispensers – Safer, Quieter, and More Efficient
A good dispenser saves time and prevents injury. Modern designs, such as the e-tape dispenser, feature retractable safety blades and silent tape bars, minimising noise and improving the operator experience.
Specialty Tapes for Every Need
Beyond standard packaging tape, there’s a tape for nearly every task:
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Cloth / Gaffer Tape
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Filament Tape
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Masking Tape
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Duct Tape
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Protection Tape
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Strapping Tape
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Polyester / Ultra-High Bond Tape
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Double-Sided Tapes
Key Considerations when Choosing Packaging Tape
Whether you’re sealing boxes for same-day shipping, securing goods for long-term storage, or looking for eco-conscious alternatives, the right packaging tape keeps your products safe and your operations efficient. By understanding the differences between adhesives, sizes, and formats, you can make a confident choice that saves time, money, and reduces the risk of damage.
|
Acrylic |
Hotmelt |
Rubber Solvent |
Hybrid |
|
|
Best for |
Short-term use |
Cold Storage |
Difficult surfaces |
General use |
|
Temperature Resistant |
Low |
High |
High |
Medium |
|
Longevity |
Low |
Medium |
High |
Medium |
|
Bond Strength |
Medium |
High |
Highest |
High |
|
Cost |
Low |
Medium |
High |
Medium |
Not Sure Which Packaging Tape Fits Your Needs?
The right tape protects your products and boosts efficiency. At TigerPak, we’ll match you with the ideal adhesive, size, and style, whether it’s for quick shipments or tough, long-term storage. Contact TigerPak today for advice that keeps your operation running at its best.
“Great range of products, product quality is very impressive and good value for money. Best place to buy Packaging Supplies in Sydney.”
- Priya V.R. – Sydney NSW