Introduction to Tape – Packaging 101
Finding the Right Tape for the Job?
Tape is an easy fix for many situations and an especially great solution for packaging. To help you better understand which tape is best for what situation, we have partnered with 3M to create this video, “Introduction to Tape” which is part of our Packaging 101 video series. When choosing a tape, variables such as material, temperature performance, weight capacity, thickness, and moisture resistance are just some of the things to consider. No matter how big or small a project is, it is important to choose the right tape for the job. Make sure to check out the full video to expand your knowledge and get a comprehensive introduction to the immense world of tape.
Different Types of Industrial Tapes:
- Box Sealing Tape
- Masking Tape
- Duct Tape
- Flooring Tape
- Electrical Tape
How to Tape a Box
- Using a handheld tape dispenser is the easiest box-taping application. It can apply the tape tightly to the box and reduce tape waste.
- Start by folding the two smaller flaps of the box inward, followed by the two larger ones. Make sure the two larger flaps are close together before taping.
- Once the flaps are down, use the handheld tape dispenser to seal the edges of the corrugated box together going across the whole length. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of overhang on the edges and seal them tightly to the box. By doing this, it makes it more difficult for the box to open if it gets tipped or lifted improperly.
- Lastly, to provide extra strength and make sure the box is sealed off from dust, insects, or moisture, tape along the edges of the box too. If done properly, the tape will look like the capital letter “H”. This technique is used by most moving companies and will leave evidence of any kind of tampering.
*Note: Applying a second strip of tape across the first strips does not make the box more secure. The tape adhesive needs to be directly applied to the corrugated surface for proper adhesion.
When to Use 2-inch or 3-inch Tape for Shipping Boxes:
We recommend using 2-inch tape for boxes that are 15 inches wide or smaller, and 3-inch tape for boxes that are over 15 inches wide.
Featured Tapes:
Here’s a list of some of the 3M tapes featured in our video:
Scotch® Box Sealing Tape 371, click here for more information. (1:55)
Scotch® High Tack Box Sealing Tape 311+, click here for more information. (2:08)
3M™ General Use Masking Tape 201+, click here for more information. (5:39)
3M™ High Performance Green Masking Tape 401+, click here for more information. (5:56)
3M™ All Purpose Duct Tape DT8, click here for more information. (7:44)
Flooring tape (8:04)
Electrical tape (9:18)
Need Some Help?
For more information about the types of tape discussed in the video or to answer any other questions you might have, contact your local Account Manager or one of our local WCP teams. Give us a call at (877) 398-3030 and we’d be happy to set up a consultation to discuss packaging, look at your tape needs, and any custom packaging products you may need to meet the goals of your business.
