6 reasons to choose gummed paper tape- Updated 12/11/24

Packing tape plays a key role in sealing your parcels for shipping, but with many different types available on the market, it is important to choose the right one for your products.

If you are looking for a smarter, more secure way to tape your boxes, below are 6 reasons why you should consider gummed paper tape.

What is gummed paper tape?

If you’re looking to secure packages securely gummed paper tape is an excellent choice for any packaging operation.

Gummed paper tape also known as water-activated tape requires water to activate the adhesive. The tape comes in rolls with a dry adhesive on one side. The adhesive then needs moisture to activate the adhesive and create a strong bond with the carton or package. This can be done with a damp sponge or a specialised tape dispenser equipped with a water reservoir.

Specialised tape dispensers really take the strain out of sealing and speed up the packing process.

For gummed paper tape Macfarlane Packaging have a range of options including…

• Basic Gummed Paper Tape Dispenser: A tabletop dispenser suitable for gummed paper tapes up to 80mm wide that are not reinforced.
• BP222 Manual Gummed Paper Tape Dispenser: A great option for packaging operations with low shipment volumes. This manual tabletop dispenser is simple to use with a two button system to dispense and cut length of paper tape whilst moistening the adhesive.
• BP500 Electronic Gummed Paper Tape Dispenser: An automatic tabletop tape dispenser pre-programmed to dispense a range of different lengths of tape, a great choice for packaging operations looking to reduce waste and optimise efficiency.
• BP555 Electronic Gummed Paper Tape Dispenser- This automatic table top gummed paper tape dispenser is perfect for high demand environments.

6 reasons to choose gummed paper tape

1. Strength

Much stronger than standard packing tape, gummed paper tape is suitable for sealing cartons. Once applied, it creates a “bond” with your box, making the entire parcel stronger and more secure. Better product protection means less damages, cutting down costs associated with replacing broken or lost products.

2. Tamper-evidence

Gummed paper tape is an excellent tamper evident solution. Once removed from a box, it cannot be resealed, making it obvious if someone has tampered with your parcel.

3. Temperature Tolerance

Tolerance to temperature fluctuations is another great advantage of gummed paper tape. This is ideal if you need to ship or store your parcels in humid or freezing conditions.

4. Smart Presentation

Standard adhesive tape is not the most attractive way of sealing your parcels, as it can require overlapping strips which can look messy. Packages sealed with paper tape look neat and professional, positively reflecting on both your product and your brand. They are also easy to print on, which is a great, low-cost opportunity to promote your brand by adding a logo or personalised message to your shipments.

5. Environment

Gummed paper tape is biodegradable and 100% recyclable, which makes it a perfect environmentally friendly alternative to standard packing tape.

6. Speeds up Packing

In order to activate gummed paper tape, you will need a tape dispenser which will moisten and cut tape automatically, dispensing the exact amount you need. This prevents unnecessary packaging waste, and a little automation in your packing operation will help you to pack quicker, generating more input in a shorter time.

Is gummed paper tape the right choice for your packaging operation?

We know that gummed paper tape has many benefits for any packaging operation however, four key points to consider when making the switch are…

1. Tape dispensers may be required: For more high-volume environments gummed paper tape dispensers can speed up the packing process making it more efficient and create less waste and ensure a neat finish. These dispensers are very easy to use requiring virtually no instruction.
2. What are you sealing? Gummed paper tape has a range of applications making it a good choice for sealing a range of shipments. Gummed paper tape is best suited for sealing paper-based packaging. It is particularly useful for keeping heavier packages secure, it creates such a strong bond as the moisture allows the adhesive bond with the fibres of the paper based/corrugate packaging. Where gummed paper tape is unsuitable self-adhesive options are available.
3. Looking to further your green credentials: Sustainability is becoming a key focus for many packaging operations. Gummed paper tape is a more sustainable choice for any business concerned about reducing their carbon footprint as unlike plastic tape it can be easily recycled and does not need to be removed from the packaging beforehand.
4. Enhance your pack presentation: Looking for neater pack presentation? Gummed paper tape blends seamlessly with the box and uses less material due to the strong bond less tape is needed to securely seal your pack.

How Macfarlane packaging can help with your packaging tape needs.

At Macfarlane Packaging we can supply a wide range of packaging tape for every businesses needs including…

• Value Packing Tapes
• Standard Packing Tapes
• Premium PVC and Vinyl Packing Tapes PVC
• Self-Adhesive Paper Packing Tape
• Masking Tape
• Gummed Paper Tapes
• Coloured Tape
• Printed Warning Tapes
• Reinforced Filament Tapes
• Tamper Evident Tapes
• Machine Applied Tapes
• Double Sided Tapes
• Cloth Tapes
• Floor Marking Tapes

All of our tapes are available in a variety of lengths and widths with different adhesive types.

We also offer printed tape with low minimum order quantities which can be customised contact us to get a quote today!