Properly Taping a Package, it’s Important!
Water-Activated Tape vs. Pressure Sensitive Tape
Properly taping a package is critical to ensuring it stays secure during transit and arrives at its destination in good condition. When discussing issues we commonly see with tape, one would think under-taping or mis-taping would be among the main points of discussion. However, through the years, we’ve seen the opposite, and instead consistent over usage of tape. 2x, and sometimes 3x more than the application actually requires. Examples include tape that wraps the package entirely, or tape layered upon tape, upon tape. Thanks in part to the misconception that the more tape that’s used, the more secure the package will be. This is good for your distributor and/or tape manufacturer, but obviously, bad for you! Especially in e-commerce where your shipping 100s, if not 1000s of packages per day.
In general, there are two types of tape to be aware of: water activated tape (referred to as WAT) and pressure sensitive tape (referred to as PST). Both are effective options, but each comes with slightly different methods of application.
Below offers a detailed overview of each tape option, as well as instructions for proper application.
Water-Activated Tape (WAT)
Water-activated tape (WAT), also known as gummed tape, is a type of packaging tape that is activated by water. It is commonly used for sealing corrugated cardboard boxes. Here’s a detailed explanation of how it works and why it is effective:
Composition of Water-Activated Tape:
Water-activated tape is typically made of:
Paper or Reinforced Paper: The base material of the tape is usually kraft paper, which can be reinforced with fiberglass threads for added strength.
Adhesive Layer: The adhesive used in WAT is starch-based, which is dry and inactive until it comes into contact with water.
How It Works:
Activation by Water:
The dry adhesive on the tape is activated when it comes into contact with water. This is typically done using a water-activated tape dispenser that wets the adhesive as the tape is pulled through.
Application to the Surface:
Once the adhesive is moistened, the tape is applied to the surface of the box. The water activates the starch-based adhesive, making it sticky.
Bonding Process:
As the moistened tape is applied to the cardboard, the adhesive penetrates the fibers of the cardboard. This penetration creates a strong bond as the adhesive dries and hardens.
Sealing and Reinforcement:
The tape adheres firmly to the box, creating a secure seal. For reinforced water-activated tape, the fiberglass threads provide additional strength and tear resistance, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Advantages of Water-Activated Tape:
Strong Bond:
The adhesive penetrates the cardboard fibers, creating a tamper-evident seal that is difficult to remove without leaving evidence of tampering. This strong bond is more reliable than that of pressure-sensitive tape, especially for heavy packages.
Security:
Because of its strong bond and tamper-evident properties, water-activated tape provides better security for the contents of the package.
Durability:
The reinforced version of WAT, with its fiberglass threads, provides extra durability and resistance to tearing, making it ideal for heavy or bulky shipments.
Environmental Benefits:
Water-activated tape is typically made of paper, making it more environmentally friendly compared to plastic-based pressure-sensitive tape. It is also easier to recycle along with the cardboard box it was applied to.
Professional Appearance:
The tape provides a clean, professional look to packages, enhancing the presentation and potentially improving customer perception. It is also easy to print on making it a great option for branding.
Equipment and Materials Needed:
Water-activated tape
A water-activated tape dispenser
How to Apply:
Prepare the Tape Dispenser:
Fill the tape dispenser's water reservoir with clean water. Ensure the sponge or brush in the dispenser is moist but not overly wet to avoid overly soaking the tape.
Measure the Tape:
Measure the length of tape you need by pulling it from the dispenser. The tape should be long enough to cover the top seam of the box and extend around 2 inches down each side of the box for a secure seal. We refer to this as the tape legs. The length of tape needed becomes the length of the box, plus 2” for each side. Ex., a 10” long box will require a 14” piece of tape for both the top and bottom. All in, your box will require 28” of tape.
Activate the Adhesive:
Run the tape through the dispenser to moisten the adhesive. The dispenser will wet the adhesive side of the tape as you pull it through. Depending on the dispenser, you may have the option for pre-sets that automatically cut the tape to the proper length. Additionally, they may have multiple pre-sets for multiple box sizes. We highly recommend this as it will reduce your tape usage by ensuring exact measurements every time. And in addition, a reduction in labor.
Apply the Tape:
Center the tape over the top seam of the box. Start at one end and press the tape firmly along the seam, smoothing it down with your hand or a smoothing tool to ensure full contact with the box surface.
For added security, especially with heavier packages, consider using an “H” pattern by applying tape along the side seams as well.
Allow to Dry:
Allow the tape to dry and bond with the cardboard. This typically takes a few minutes.
Pressure-Sensitive Tape (PST)
Pressure-sensitive tape (PST), commonly known as adhesive tape, works through the application of pressure to create a bond between the tape and the surface it is applied to. Here’s a detailed explanation of how it works and why it is effective:
Composition of Pressure-Sensitive Tape:
Pressure-sensitive tape is typically composed of the following layers:
Backing Material:
This can be made from various materials such as plastic (polypropylene, PVC), paper, cloth, or metal foil. The choice of material depends on the intended use of the tape.
Adhesive:
The adhesive layer is what makes the tape sticky. It can be made from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, acrylic, or silicone, depending on the desired properties (e.g., strength, flexibility, temperature resistance).
Release Liner (optional):
Some pressure-sensitive tapes come with a release liner, which protects the adhesive until the tape is ready to be applied. This is common in double-sided tapes.
How It Works:
Adhesive Activation:
Unlike water-activated tape, pressure-sensitive tape’s adhesive is always tacky and ready to bond. It does not require any activation by water, heat, or solvent.
Application of Pressure:
When pressure is applied to the tape, the adhesive comes into contact with the surface’s microscopic contours. The pressure ensures that the adhesive flows into these contours, creating a bond.
Bond Formation:
The adhesive forms a bond with the surface through physical and chemical interactions. The strength of the bond depends on the type of adhesive and the amount of pressure applied.
Immediate Bond:
The bond is formed immediately upon the application of pressure, allowing for quick and easy use. The strength of the bond can increase over time as the adhesive continues to flow into the surface of the cardboard.
Advantages of Pressure-Sensitive Tape:
Ease of Use:
PST is very user-friendly as it does not require any additional tools or activation methods. Simply apply pressure, and the tape adheres.
Versatility:
Pressure-sensitive tape is available in various forms, including single-sided, double-sided, and with different backing materials, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Immediate Bonding:
The adhesive bond forms immediately, which is ideal for situations requiring quick application and bonding.
Variety of Adhesives:
Different adhesives can be used to meet specific needs, such as high tack, low tack, heat resistance, or flexibility.
Equipment and Materials Needed:
Pressure-sensitive tape (such as packing tape)
A tape dispenser with a cutting blade (optional). Referred to as a tape gun.
Scissors (if not using a dispenser)
How to Apply:
Prepare the Tape Dispenser:
Load the roll of pressure-sensitive tape into the dispenser, ensuring it is properly seated and the tape can feed through smoothly.
Measure the Tape:
Pull the tape from the dispenser to the desired length. As with WAT, the tape should cover the top seam and extend around 3 inches down each side of the box. Again, this is referred to as the tape legs.
Apply the Tape:
Center the tape over the top seam of the box. Start at one end and press the tape down along the seam, smoothing it with your hand or a smoothing tool to ensure full contact.
For added security, especially with heavier packages, use an “H” pattern by applying tape along the side seams. Apply one strip of tape along each side seam to secure the top flaps further.
Cut the Tape:
Use the cutting blade on the dispenser to cut the tape. If not using a dispenser, use scissors to cut the tape cleanly.
Differences Between PST and WAT
Adhesive Activation:
PST is always tacky and ready to use, whereas WAT requires water to activate the adhesive.
Ease of Use:
PST is generally easier to use since it doesn’t require a dispenser with water. It’s ready to use right out of the roll.
Strength and Security:
WAT typically offers a stronger and more secure bond, especially for heavy or valuable items, as it creates a tamper-evident seal.
Additional Tips Applicable to Both Taping Methods
Clean Surface: Ensure the surface of the box is clean and dry before applying tape to ensure maximum adhesion.
Proper Void fill: Include enough void fill to create up-word pressure on the top of the box (creating a crown). This will prevent the major and minor flaps from collapsing inward and in turn keep the tape secured with the proper amount of upward pressure.
Proper Tension: Apply consistent tension while applying the tape to avoid air bubbles and ensure a smooth, firm seal.
Reinforcement: For heavier packages or those with long shipping routes, consider using an “H” pattern by applying tape along the side seams. Apply one strip of tape along each side seam to secure the top flaps further.
Inspect: Check the tape after application to ensure it is firmly adhered and there are no gaps or loose edges.
By understanding the different tape options, you should be able to determine the best tape as it relates to your specific application. Also, by following the steps identified above, you can ensure that your packages are securely taped, whether using water-activated or pressure-sensitive tape, providing proper protection during shipping and handling. And as always, if you are in need of assistance, please contact us.