With the wrong materials and tools, package prep can be finicky, slow, and frustrating. Low-quality tapes can tear and lose adhesion, causing boxes to burst open and damaging the products inside.

True story: once, in my time as a wholesale ceramics shipper, I was packing a large order of handmade ceramic pots. I’d carefully wrapped each fragile pot in bubble wrap, filled the box with void fill, and taped it shut. I’d marked the box with fragile tape and a shipping label, and finally, I was ready to take it to the loading dock. I carefully wheeled the 30 lb box through the warehouse, but when I lifted it off the dolly, the tape failed. The bottom of the box burst open, and 20+ handmade ceramic vases fell out, many of them instantly breaking against the concrete floor. That sound of ceramic breaking is one I’ll never forget. It taught me an important lesson: always use good-quality tape, and use it right.

In this article, we recommend the best products and techniques for sealing boxes of all sizes, so that you don’t have to worry about needlessly losing inventory. Keep reading to learn more.

What tape should I use to seal my boxes?

So many tapes, so little time. When you’re searching for the right tape for your carton- sealing needs, it’s easy to get confused. There’s acrylic tape, hot melt tape, packing tape, water-activated tape, kraft tape, oh my. Let’s break it down:

Carton Sealing Tape

Also sometimes referred to simply as packing tape, carton sealing tape is any tape used to securely close corrugated boxes and cartons for shipping, storage, or handling. It’s available in the form of acrylic tape, hot melt tape, kraft tape, and more. Tape rolls come in various widths and thicknesses to suit light, medium, or heavy-duty applications.

i) Acrylic Tape

Acrylic Tape is a versatile and reliable carton sealing solution ideal for long-term storage, shipping, and packaging in fluctuating temperatures. Known for its excellent clarity, UV resistance, and long-lasting hold, acrylic carton sealing tape adheres quickly and maintains bond strength over time. Its water-based acrylic adhesive makes it a go-to choice for packaging operations where performance and durability are essential.

ii) Hot Melt Tape

Hot Melt Adhesive Tape is a high-performance sealing solution designed for efficient, strong, and reliable carton sealing. Ideal for use in shipping and packaging, this tape provides a robust bond and is perfect for sealing boxes under a variety of conditions, including high and low temperatures. Known for its fast adhesive strength, hot melt tape offers exceptional holding power on both corrugated cartons and other surfaces.

iii) Kraft Tape

Kraft tape, also known as paper tape, is an eco-friendly packaging solution used to seal boxes with a natural, professional look. Made from kraft paper with either water-activated or pressure-sensitive adhesive, it forms a strong bond with corrugated surfaces. Kraft tape is ideal for businesses seeking recyclable, biodegradable materials that don’t compromise strength. It resists tearing and tampering, creating a secure seal that enhances package presentation.

The Best Tape for Corrugated Boxes: Water-Activated Tape (WAT) or “Gummed Tape”

When it comes to sealing corrugated boxes, Water-Activated Tape is the strongest, most secure tape there is. It has a kraft paper backing, fiber reinforcements, and water-activated adhesive, which binds to the fibers in the corrugate, creating a strong, tamper-evident seal.The tape does not stick until the adhesive is activated with water, so you do need to use a damp sponge or Water-Activated Kraft Tape Dispenser. And while the dispenser is a bit more expensive than your basic handheld packing tape dispenser (tape gun), it’s an upgrade you won’t regret.

What is the best way to seal a box?

Taping a box might seem like a simple task, but don’t overlook it, because sloppy sealing can cost you a lot. Follow these tips to make sure your boxes stay sealed for the long haul.

The H-Shape Tape Method

For best results, we always recommend this simple trick: the H-Shape Tape Method. This method ensures that all the flaps of your box are secure, so you aren’t relying on just one piece of tape to keep the box sealed. Here’s how it works:

1) Using at least a 2-inch wide tape, fold down all the flaps of the box, and stick the end of your tape to the side of the box, 2 or 3 inches extended from the top. Then run the tape down the middle of the two flaps, keeping it centered and holding the flaps tightly together as you seal. There should be almost no gap between the two flaps. Finish by leaving 2-3 inches of tape at the end, securing it to the other side of the box.

2) Form an H-shape by sealing the two perpendicular sides of the flaps so that all openings on the carton are sealed.

3) Optional: For extra support, you can also tape across the middle perpendicularly.

The Snowflake Tape Method

For packages with high-value contents and extra security needed, the snowflake method is the best heavy-duty carton sealing technique. Here’s how it’s done:

1) Follow the steps of the H-shape tape method (above.)

2) Add two additional strips of tape going diagonally across the middle of the box flaps, in an X shape. The finished product should resemble a snowflake.

The Best Tools for Sealing Boxes to Ship

When it comes to shipping boxes, your package is only as safe as your tape is strong. That’s why there’s one rule of thumb you should definitely adhere to: always use high- quality carton sealing tape, and use it the right way. If you want your parcel to arrive at its destination safely every time, follow these packaging tape pro tips.

What is the best tape dispenser?

There are a range of carton sealing tape dispensers on the market, each offering different uses and price points, and it can be confusing to navigate. Should you get a basic tape gun, or something more rugged? Do you need a Semi-Automatic Dispenser? And what does that even mean? If you're feeling stuck, don't worry; we break down the pros and cons of the three best types of tape dispensers so you can pick the one that’s right for you.

Best Budget Option: Handheld Tape Dispenser or “Tape Gun”

If there’s one tool I always keep at my packing station, it’s a handheld packing tape dispenser, or “tape gun”. You can’t beat its price, size, and ease of use. This is the obvious choice for adhering acrylic packing tape to boxes. Our customers love it because it's efficient, easy to store, easy to use, and inexpensive. If you’re just starting out or not shipping a ton of boxes - or you’re on a tight budget - this is the tool I’d recommend starting with. This simple upgrade will make a huge difference.

Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Handheld, small footprint. Easy to store. Doesn’t take up worktop space.
• Intuitive, easy to use. No electricity needed.

Cons:

• Not the best dispenser for Water-Activated Tape (WAT), as it doesn’t moisten the tape.
• Slower than desktop dispensers.

The Most Versatile Option: Industrial Desktop Tape Dispensers

For high efficiency and compatibility with a range of tapes, we recommend a Desktop Semi-Auto Tape Dispenser. It’s designed for fast-paced industrial environments that require precise, programmable taping with minimal manual input. Supporting multiple dispensing modes, including semi-automatic, automatic, and manual activation, this versatile unit adapts to different production workflows with ease. Its built-in digital length control allows operators to preset exact tape measurements, helping maintain consistent output across high-volume packaging runs. Built for durability, the unit features a rugged frame that withstands continuous operation while maintaining accurate tape delivery.

Pros:

• Compatible with a range of tapes (up to 3” wide) including Acrylic Tape, Self- Adhesive Kraft Tape, Water-Activated Tape, and Hot-Melt Adhesive Tape
• Very efficient. Automatic and Semi-Automatic dispensing modes measure and cut the tape to preset, exact tape measurements.
• Industrial, heavy-duty grade
• Ideal for high outputs

Cons:

• Not the best dispenser for Water-Activated Tape (WAT), as it doesn’t moisten the tape.
• Larger footprint. Needs electricity and a dedicated space for storage and use.

The Best Heavy-Duty Option: The Kraft Tape Dispenser

Paired with a good quality Water-Activated Tape (WAT), the Kraft Tape Dispenser is one of the best investments you can make for your packaging. The dispenser moistens the WAT tape (activating its super strong adhesive), measures it, and perfectly cuts it to size, all with the press of a button. This machine is the secret to efficient, professional packaging, and once you switch, you’ll never go back to fumbling around with tape guns again. It’s a seriously heavy-duty tape dispenser, designed to work with the strongest tape for corrugated boxes.

Pros:

• Very efficient; moistens, measures, and cuts Water-Activated Tape (WAT) at the press of a button.
• Industrial, heavy-duty grade.

Cons:

• More expensive than other options.
• Specifically intended for Water-Activated Kraft Tape; not versatile.
• Larger footprint. Needs electricity and a dedicated space for storage and use.

Determining the Best Carton Sealing Solutions for Your Business

Choosing the best tape and accessories for your fulfillment operations is not always easy. There are many factors to consider, including price, sustainability, efficiency, ease of use, and versatility. To determine the most suitable choice, you’ll want to carefully evaluate these factors:

• Consider the size and weight of your packaging. Are you shipping large, heavy corrugated boxes? You might want to prioritize a heavier-duty tape or try using the Snowflake Tape Method.
• Consider the value of the products inside the box. Are you shipping valuable or fragile inventory? You might want to select a tamper-evident tape.
• Consider the values of your brand and customer. Is sustainability a priority? You might want to choose a tape (and compatible dispenser) that is recyclable, like Kraft Paper Tape.
• Consider your budget. Tapes and accessories come in a wide range of prices, so choose ones that fit your budget while meeting your other needs.

These considerations show the crucial role that packaging plays in both branding and protecting your product for the consumer. In the ever-changing world of consumer goods, you can’t afford to make a mistake when selecting packaging.

Stick with the Pros

If you’re not sure where to start, rest assured that we can help. At PackagingSuppliesByMail, we have everything you need to streamline your order fulfillment process. Check out our product guides or contact us today to learn more.