We Ranked the Top Types of Packaging Tape for You

Author | Date: 10/27/2025

Introduction: Not All Packaging Tapes Are Equal

Ever had a parcel burst open in transit even though you “taped it tight”? That’s not bad luck — it’s a packaging-tape problem.

The right tape can make the difference between a perfect delivery and a customer complaint.
From eco paper rolls to bold printed tapes with your logo, every option affects box safety, shipping costs, and brand perception.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which packaging tape fits your boxes — and your budget.

Why Packaging Tape Choice Matters More Than You Think?

Tape isn’t just a finishing touch. It:

Secures shipments – keeps flaps sealed against moisture and impact.
Shapes the unboxing experience – a branded strip is the first thing customers see.
Supports sustainability – switching to paper tape can cut plastic waste.

Use the wrong tape and you risk break-open boxes, product returns, or a bad first impression.
(Explore our eco-friendly packaging range for greener alternatives.)

How We Ranked These Packaging Tapes?

To help you choose confidently, we compared each tape by:

Adhesive strength and temperature resistance
Surface compatibility (cardboard, paperboard, plastic)
Printability and branding options
Eco-friendliness
Cost and availability

The Top Types of Packaging Tape (Ranked)

1. Clear Packaging Tape (Transparent BOPP Tape)

Affordable, glossy finish for eCommerce parcels
Works with most box surfaces
Also available as custom clear packaging tape with logo print

Best for: general packing and small-parcel shipping

2. Brown Packaging Tape (Standard Kraft Adhesive Tape)

Blends with brown cardboard
Good adhesive grip + low cost
Available in hot-melt or acrylic versions

Best for: corrugated cartons and everyday dispatches

3. Paper Packaging Tape (Eco-Friendly Choice)

Made from kraft paper with plant-based adhesive
Fully recyclable and compostable
Can be printed → custom paper packaging tape

Best for: sustainable or artisan brands

4. Printed or Branded Packaging Tape

Displays your logo or tagline on every parcel
Available on clear, brown, or paper base
Boosts professionalism and brand recall

Best for: retail & eCommerce branding
(See our custom printed tape options.)

5. Custom Packaging Tape (Even in Small Quantities)

Ideal for startups or handmade brands
Order short runs with your colours and slogan
Creates consistency across small-batch shipments

Best for: boutiques and small businesses

6. Reinforced / Fibreglass Packaging Tape

Woven fibreglass strands for extreme strength
Prevents tampering; resists tearing

Best for: export cartons, industrial packaging

7. Water-Activated (Gummed) Paper Tape

Activated by moisture for a permanent seal
100 % recyclable and tamper-evident
Used by major eCommerce brands

Best for: eco-conscious, high-volume shipping

Quick Comparison Table

Tape Type	Material	Best For	Branding	Eco Rating
Clear Tape	BOPP Plastic	General Shipping	✅	❌
Brown Tape	BOPP / Kraft	Cardboard Boxes	✅	⚠️
Paper Tape	Kraft Paper	Sustainable Brands	✅	✅
Printed Tape	Plastic / Paper	Brand Visibility	✅	⚠️
Custom Tape	Plastic / Paper	Small Businesses	✅	⚠️
Reinforced Tape	Fibreglass	Heavy-Duty Boxes	🚫	❌
Gummed Tape	Water-Activated Paper	Eco eCommerce	✅	✅✅

How Custom Packaging Tape Builds Brand Value?

Every parcel is a mini billboard. A simple strip of branded packaging tape can:

Strengthen brand recognition
Prevent tampering
Turn plain boxes into professional deliveries

And thanks to custom packaging tape small quantities, even micro-brands can now afford it.

How to Choose the Right Tape for Your Packaging?

Situation	Recommended Tape
Eco-friendly packaging	Paper / Gummed Tape
High-impact branding	Custom Printed Tape
Heavy shipments	Reinforced Fibreglass Tape
Budget shipping	Brown or Clear Tape
Premium presentation	Branded Paper Tape

Still unsure?
Talk to our packaging experts — we’ll match you with the perfect adhesive solution for your products.

Partner with a Reliable Packaging Tape Supplier

Consistency matters. Inferior adhesives yellow, peel, or lose tack in cold storage. At Buy Packaging Boxes, we’re one of the trusted packaging tape manufacturers in the UK, offering:

Custom logo printing
Low MOQs
Fast lead times
Sustainable paper tape alternatives

(Contact our packaging tape supplier team to get started.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between packing tape and packaging tape?

They’re often the same. “Packing tape” is the generic term, while “packaging tape” covers all adhesive options used for sealing parcels.

What type of packaging tape is strongest?

Reinforced fibreglass tape offers the highest tensile strength for heavy boxes and exports.

Can I get custom packaging tape in small quantities?

Yes — we print custom tape for short runs starting from low minimum orders.

Is paper packaging tape recyclable?

Absolutely. It’s made from kraft paper and water-based adhesives, so you can recycle it with cardboard.

What’s better — brown or clear packaging tape?

Brown tape blends with kraft boxes for a clean look, while clear tape works well on white or printed surfaces.

How do I print my logo on packaging tape?

Upload your artwork or branding design — our team will create custom printed tape that matches your brand colours.

Which packaging tape works best for cardboard boxes?

Brown or paper tapes adhere best to corrugated surfaces, especially when using water-activated adhesives.

What is the best tape for packaging?

For general shipping — clear BOPP; for eco brands — paper or gummed; for branding — custom printed tape.

Conclusion: Tape That Sticks with Your Brand

The right packaging tape secures your product, saves money on returns, and strengthens your brand image. From clear plastic to eco paper and fully custom-printed rolls, Buy Packaging Boxes has you covered.

✨ Make every seal count — explore our custom packaging tape and eco options today.