Plastic Packing Tape vs. Crepe Paper Tape: Which is Best for Sealing Brown Cardboard Boxes?

We so often get asked, “what is the difference between plastic packing tape and a high tack crepe paper tape alternative”? As always, every situation is different, but there is some definite advantages with both materials. Packing tape is used in many applications, in this article we will focus on taping corrugated carboard boxes which the vast majority of our goods in transit are shipped in. Plastic packing tape and crepe paper tape are two popular options, each with its own set of advantages. Here is our honest assessment of both packing tape materials to help you in your decision. 

Plastic Packing Tape: 

There are two main types of plastic packing tape, with the most common one being B.O.P.P (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene). P.E.T (polyester) tapes are being developed now which are worth considering in your strive for environmentally friendly products. Both tapes are renowned for robustness and versatility. Here we have put together five benefits of plastic tape: 

1. Strength and Durability: Plastic packing tape boasts impressive tensile strength, making it perfect for securing even the heaviest of packages. Its durable seal provides reliable protection against the rigours of shipping and handling, reducing the risk of tampering or damage in transit. 

2. Weather Resistance: With excellent resistance to moisture, humidity, and temperature fluctuations, plastic packing tape ensures that your packages remain securely sealed and shielded from the elements, even in harsh environmental conditions. 

3. Adhesive Power: Armed with strong adhesive properties, plastic packing tape forms a permanent bond with brown cardboard boxes, corrugated materials, and various packaging surfaces. This guarantees that your packages stay sealed throughout the shipping process, offering peace of mind to both sender and recipient. 

4. Customisation Options: Plastic packing tape comes in a variety of colours, widths, and thicknesses, catering to diverse packaging needs. Additionally, some variants offer custom printing options, enabling you to incorporate branding, logos, or messages onto your packaging, boosting brand visibility and professionalism. 

5. Cost Effective: Although advancements in technology has brought the cost of paper tape down, the polypropylene plastic tape is still significantly more cost effective per meter of tape. 

Crepe Paper Tape: 

Crepe paper tape, especially the high tack version, is designed for heavy-duty applications, offering unique benefits for sealing brown cardboard boxes: 

1. High Tack Adhesion: Crepe paper tape with high tack adhesive clings firmly to surfaces, ensuring a secure seal that withstands the stresses of transportation. Its powerful adhesion provides peace of mind, particularly for heavy or irregularly shaped packages. 

2. Flexibility: With its flexible and conformable nature, crepe paper tape effortlessly adheres to the contours of brown cardboard boxes, ensuring a snug fit and reliable seal. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of packaging tasks, from sealing to bundling and reinforcing. 

3. Presentation: Arguably the brown version of crepe paper tape can look better and cleaner to the eye. With most corrugated cardboard boxes being produced in brown, when using a brown paper tape it blends in with the carton giving it a more quality feel. 

4. Environmentally Friendly: Crepe paper tape is biodegradable and recyclable, making it an eco-conscious choice for businesses committed to sustainability. By opting for crepe paper tape, you can reduce your environmental footprint and demonstrate your dedication to responsible packaging practices. 

When it comes to sealing brown cardboard boxes, both plastic packing tape and crepe paper tape offer distinct advantages. Plastic packing tape excels in strength, durability, weather resistance and cost effectiveness providing reliable protection for packages of all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, crepe paper tape with high tack adhesive offers superior adhesion, flexibility, presentation and eco-friendliness, making it an excellent choice for most packaging applications. 

Obviously, the choice between plastic packing tape and crepe paper tape will depend on factors such as the weight and size of your packages, shipping conditions, environmental considerations, and personal preferences. By weighing the pros and cons of each type of tape, you can select the option that best meets your packaging requirements, ensuring secure and hassle-free shipping for your business. 

If you need help in getting expert advice on your taping needs, you may reach out to our team who will help you achieve your packaging requirements. Call us at 0151 486 4800 or email us at sales@pluspkg.com today to get started.