Paper Tape

Paper tape is an eco-friendly and durable solution for sealing. Perfect for closing boxes securely, while offering sustainability & easy recycling.

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Not sure what tape you need?

We’re here to help you find parcel tape for your products. Check out our free packing tape guide, discover custom tape and more!

Free packing tape guide

Customised paper tape just for you

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Not sure what paper tape you need?

We’re here to help you find parcel tape for your products. Check out our free packing tape guide, discover custom tape and more!

Free packing tape guide

Customised paper tape just for you

Design your own packing tape

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As the UK and Ireland's largest distributor of protective packaging, we can help you with effective, eco-friendly sealing solutions.

Paper tape has lots of uses and is primarily used in packaging for sealing boxes.


Other common applications for paper tape can include labelling, tamper evident sealing, enhancing sustainability and even as a low-cost branding option, if the paper tape is printed.


In many cases, paper tape is a popular sustainable packaging swap that helps many businesses help their packaging go plastic-free. In summary, paper tapes are eco-friendly and versatile, with many applications.


Paper tape is a "catch all" term used to describe adhesive tapes made with a paper backing.


While both kraft paper tape and masking tape are made from paper, there are some key differences.


First, the type of paper they’re made from is different. Popular self-adhesive paper tapes and gummed paper tapes are usually made using kraft paper. In contrast, masking tape is made from crepe paper, so it can confirm to irregular surfaces.


In addition to this, masking tapes and paper packaging tapes will use different adhesives. For example, masking tape uses a much less sticky adhesive, that can be easily removed whereas gummed paper tape forms a long-lasting seal.


Lastly, masking tape and paper packing tapes are used for different purposes. Most of the time masking tape us used for painting and decorating, whereas the paper packing tape will be used for sealing packaging.



Yes, gummed paper tape (or water-activated tape) is eco-friendly for several reasons:


  • Biodegradable: Made from natural paper fibres, it breaks down naturally over time.
  • Recyclable: Both the tape and cardboard can be recycled together, simplifying disposal.
  • Plastic-Free: Contains no plastic, avoiding plastic pollution and microplastic contamination.
  • Low Environmental Impact: Its production has a smaller environmental footprint compared to plastic tapes.
  • Suitable for Reused Boxes: Adheres well to various surfaces, promoting the reuse of boxes.
  • High Performance: Provides strong, tamper-evident seals, ideal for eco-conscious businesses.
  • Compostable: Certified compostable, adding to its environmental benefits.

Note: Some gummed paper tapes are reinforced with fibreglass for added strength. While still eco-friendly, these may not be compostable. Always check product specifications and disposal guidelines for responsible choices.


Yes, paper tape us usually recyclable. Due to this, it's considered to be an eco-friendlier sealing option when compared to plastic packing tapes.


To recycled paper tape effectively, it is good to ensure that any paper tape you're trying to recycle is not covered with grease or materials that could contaminate the recycling process.


It's also worth nothing that some paper tapes have special coatings or reinforcing filaments that can stop it being recycled. You should always check the specification of the tape you're using and follow the appropriate recycling instructions.


There are lots of benefits of using paper tape.


Some of them include paper tape being incredibly strong and recyclable. In some cases, paper tape can also have tamper evident properties. And perhaps the most significant benefit, is that paper tape is sustainable and recyclable.


Paper tape is a sustainable packaging tape made from natural paper fibres. It is commonly used for sealing boxes and packages, as well as for labelling and colour-coding.


There are several types of paper tape, including:

  • Self-Adhesive Paper Tape: Ready to use with a sticky backing.
  • Gummed Paper Tape: Requires water to activate the adhesive. This is also called water-activated tape (WAT).
  • Reinforced Gummed Paper Tape: This is gummed paper tape that contains fibreglass strands for added strength.
  • Silicone-Coated Paper Tape: Offers a non-stick surface and is heat-resistant.
  • Paper Masking Tapes: Used for painting and general masking purposes.

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With hundreds of packaging solutions on hand, you can be confident that whatever you need, Macfarlane Packaging has the solution.

Paper tape is an eco-friendly and versatile alternative to traditional plastic tape. It offers a sustainable solution for your packaging and sealing needs.

At Macfarlane Packaging, our comprehensive range of paper tapes includes self-adhesive kraft paper tape, gummed paper tape and masking tapes. For extra heavy products, we sell reinforced paper tapes.

You can shop paper options for hand or machine application, so whether you’re a small operation or a large logistics handler, there is a paper tap option for you.

Self-adhesive paper tape is perfect for quick and easy sealing and it can be used with a hand-held tape dispenser. If you need an option that provides an extra durable seal, our gummed paper tapes would work for you. They pair well with our electronic gummed paper tape machines, which can help you cut your packing times.

So, if you want an eco-friendly way to seal your cardboard boxes, why not choose paper tape from Macfarlane Packaging? It’s a great way to remove plastic from your supply chain that makes your parcels look great. If you’d like paper tape customised with your branding, we can do that too. Get in touch for a free estimate.

Packaging advice, news and opinion

Protective packaging products and services to businesses throughout the UK, Ireland and Continental Europe

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 pa
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Macfarlane Packaging announces automation agreement with Lantech

Macfarlane Packaging, the UK’s leading distributor of protective packaging, announces today (18 March) a new automation distributor agreement with U…

Macfarlane Packaging announces automation agreement with Lantech

Macfarlane Packaging, the UK’s leading distributor of protective packaging, announces today (18 March) a new automation distributor agreement with U…

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