What Do I Need To Consider When Buying Packaging Tape?

Most businesses don’t give importance to packaging tapes because they consider it to be insignificant. However, packaging tapes are a vital element because they keep the contents secure until they reach your customers. A wrong choice will not only damage the package and its contents but also the reputation of your business. Hence, it is important to buy the right packing tape. What are the factors to consider while buying packaging tapes?

Things to consider when buying packaging tape

1. Material

The first and foremost thing to consider is the material. The most common materials used for making tapes are PVC and polypropylene or PP. Both of them have both pluses and minuses.

• Flexibility - PVC tapes are more flexible than PP tapes. PP tapes are flexible to some extent but not as flexible as PVC.
• Strength - PVC have good tensile strength and are strong but PP tapes have higher tensile strength and are stronger.
• Temperature - Temperature resistance is crucial in places where the temperature is very high. PP tapes provide better temperature resistance because their boiling point is higher.
• Cost - PVC tapes are less expensive than PP tapes. If you are looking for a cost-effective option, PVC tapes are a better choice.

2. Thickness

Tapes come in various thicknesses and they are suitable for specific purposes. You should find out which one suits you best.

• Thin tapes - Thin tapes are less than 1 mil in thickness. They are used for sealing lightweight packages.
• Medium thick tapes - Their thickness ranges from 1 to 5 mils. They are useful for light and medium packaging.
• Thick tapes - They are from 5 to 10 mils in thickness and are provided with extra strength. Thick tapes are suitable for stronger bonding and heavy-duty packaging.
• Very thick tapes - They are 10 mils and above in thickness and are mostly used for construction purposes rather than packaging.

3. Adhesive strength

Adhesive strength is an important factor to consider when choosing a packaging tape because it ensures that your package remains sealed until delivery. There are three types of adhesives with different properties making them suitable for different applications.

• Acrylic - It is cheap and is the best for general-purpose packaging without special needs.
• Hotmelt - This is stronger than acrylic and slightly more expensive. It is also more stress-resistant.
• Solvent - This type of adhesive is the strongest and costliest. It is suitable for packages that have to withstand extreme temperatures.

4. Grade

Grades refer to the levels of adhesive thickness in tapes. Packaging tapes are available in a variety of grades. Before choosing the grades, you should consider things like the type of cartons used, the contents packed in the carton, and environmental factors.

• The higher grades of tape are thicker, have more durable backing, and have more adhesive. They are suitable for heavy-duty packaging. Moreover, they are recommended for expensive content like electronic items, computers, etc.
• Lower grades have thinner backings and less adhesive. They are used for general-purpose packaging and lightweight carton sealing. Lower-grade tapes are cost-effective.

5. Customization

Customized tapes provide you with a lot of benefits. They are wonderful tools for brand promotion. Moreover, they allow you to print specific instructions and messages. You can easily trace your packages. It also boosts the image of your company and gives a memorable unboxing experience to your customers.

There are two primary methods of customizing packaging tapes. They are custom-printed tapes and custom sticker tapes.

• Printed tapes - Do you want to create a long-lasting impression on your customers? Do you want to stand out from the crowd? If so, printed tapes with a customization option are a good choice. You can create your own design, choose the colors, add messages and instructions, and include logos and company names. You can customize the packing tapes as you wish to suit your requirements and budget. When the design aligns with your overall branding strategy, you can convey your message effectively. Printed tapes are an affordable way to promote brand identity and recognition.
• Tapes with stickers - If your requirements are small or if you are looking for flexibility, you should go for custom stickers that you can stick on the packaging tapes.

If you are going for customized printed tapes, you should give importance to print quality. The purpose of customized tapes will not be solved if the printing quality is not good. It will create adverse effects.

6. Quantity

Considering quantity is important when buying packaging tapes. You can get several benefits when you buy in bulk. What are they?

• Manufacturers offer discounts when you buy in bulk. This reduces the unit cost and helps you to save money in the long run.
• When you have enough supply of packaging tape, you don’t have the risk of running out of tape unexpectedly. So, you can continue with your packing without any interruption.
• Using the same tape, especially, custom printed tapes ensures consistency and easy traceability.
• The waste associated with rolls is decreased significantly. So, the environmental impact is minimized.

It is advantageous to buy in bulk. However, if you don’t require large quantities, you can avoid it. Consider your needs before deciding on the quantity.

7. Ease of use

Packaging tape should be easy to handle and dispense. It should be easy to cut and tear-resistant. If it is not easy to use it will affect the speed and efficiency of packaging.

8. Storage and shipping environment

Environmental conditions like temperature, humidity, and dust can affect the quality of seal. Some tapes are susceptible to temperature variations. If your package is to be stored or shipped in extreme weather conditions, you should choose tapes that are resistant to temperature changes.

Packaging tape goes beyond its functional role and can help in impressing your customers, play the role of brand ambassador, and increase sales and revenue. Moreover, the right tape will ensure your items are sealed and protected. So, you have to carefully consider all factors before buying tapes for your packaging needs. Check cusotmer reviews and ratings before placing order.