There are many different types of packing tapes to choose from, but choosing one can be daunting if you do not know how these tapes can benefit your product packaging.
This article discusses hot melt adhesive tape and acrylic tape, both of which are suitable for a lot of packaging applications. The reason to discuss these tapes is to help you choose one that fits your packaging requirements.
The difference between hot melt and acrylic
Both hot melt and acrylic tapes offer a strong and consistent seal for your cartons. The primary difference between both these tapes is that acrylic tape can hold up in extreme temperatures. This characteristic makes acrylic tape an ideal option for cartons that are going to be transported in extremely high or low temperatures.
Here are the similarities between both these tapes.
- Both types are commonly used for warehouse product packaging.
- Both are available in transparent and colored varieties.
- Both are suitable for shipping and storing cartons.
- Both are available in a range of grades.
Here are the differences between both types of tape.
- Acrylic tape offers improved temperature endurance and has a longer shelf life.
- Hot melt tapes may turn yellow over time.
- Hot melt tape offers improved adhesion.
What to consider
There are a few rules of thumb to consider when choosing a tape for packaging applications. Here is a quick overview of those rules.
- Make sure your package looks professional and on-brand after the application of tape.
- The grade of the tape determines its ability to hold up on a surface.
- Depending on your preferences or requirements, you have to decide whether you want to tape your boxes manually or with a machine.
- The weight of the carton is yet another factor that influences the types of tape you select.
- You have to consider the environmental impact the tape has to endure.
- You will need to use stronger tapes if the transportation process involves vibrations, friction, or other stressors.
- It is a no-brainer that not all brands produce tapes of the same quality. So, choosing high-quality packing tape is a must.
- While choosing packing tape, be sure to pay attention to the method handlers use when storing boxes and cartons.
History
The acrylic tape has been the go-to solution for a long due to its low cost. Even those companies that weren’t dealing with extreme temperatures used this tape to secure their packages before shipping.
However, prices of packaging supplies have surged in recent times. Unfortunately, acrylic packing tape is one of the supplies that have become more expensive. There was a time when acrylic was the most cost-effective taping option around. But now, it has become more unreachable for companies. Higher costs and accessibility issues have made it almost impossible for businesses to keep up with demands.
Is it time to reconsider taping?
If you want to secure your packages against extreme temperatures and harsher environments, you will likely need to stick to the use of acrylic tape. However, you can consider other options if the harsh weather is not a concern for you.
Hot melt tape was an expensive option for quite a long time in the past. However, it has now become a less expensive option. If you are not bothered by the downsides of hot melt packing tape, you can use it instead of acrylic tape to save money.
