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7 Most Commonly Used Packaging Tapes: Which Should You Use?

7 Most Commonly Used Packaging Tapes: Which Should You Use?

When it comes to packaging and shipping, having the right type of tape can make all the difference. Not only does it ensure that your packages stay secure during transit, but it also helps to protect the contents inside. But with so many different types of packaging tape available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the 7 most commonly used types of packaging tape and their unique properties, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your packaging needs.

7 Most Commonly Used Packaging Tapes:

  1. Clear
  2. Brown Flatback
  3. Masking
  4. Duct
  5. Water Activated
  6. Film
  7. Double-Sided
custom packaging tapes

Clear Tape


Clear tape, also known as transparent tape, is a pressure-sensitive tape that is made from polypropylene or polyester. It is a versatile tape that is suitable for a wide range of packaging applications, including sealing boxes, envelopes, and bags. Clear tape is a great option for packaging items that need to be visible, as it does not obstruct the view of the contents inside.

Advantages

  • Versatile, suitable for a wide range of packaging applications
  • Transparent, does not obstruct the view of the contents inside
  • Affordable

Disadvantages

  • Not as strong as other types of tape
  • Not suitable for heavy duty applications
carton sealing tape

Brown Flatback Tape

Brown flatback tape, also known as paper packaging tape, is a type of pressure-sensitive tape that is made from strong paper. It is a strong and durable tape that is commonly used for sealing boxes and other packaging materials. Flatback tape is a great option for heavy duty packaging applications as it is strong, sustainable and durable.

Advantages

  • Strong and durable
  • Suitable for heavy duty packaging applications
  • Sustainable

Disadvantages

  • Not transparent, can obstruct the view of the contents inside
  • Not suitable for applications where visibility is important
Flat back packaging tape

Masking Tape

Masking tape is a type of pressure-sensitive tape made from a thin and easy-to-tear paper. It is often used for light-duty packaging, sealing and bundling applications. The adhesive on masking tape is not very strong, making it easy to remove and reposition. It is available in a variety of widths and lengths, and colors.

Examples: Packaging and sealing boxes, temporarily holding items together, labeling items.

Advantages

  • Easy to tear by hand
  • Can be repositioned easily
  • Easy to remove without leaving residue
  • Available in a variety of widths and lengths
  • Available in different colors

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty applications
  • Not water-resistant
Masking Tape

Duct Tape

Duct tape is a heavy-duty, water-resistant tape made from a combination of cloth and plastic. It is often used for industrial and commercial packaging applications, as well as for home repairs and DIY projects. It is available in a variety of widths and lengths.

Examples: Sealing boxes and bags, bundling items, reinforcing packaging

Advantages

  • Strong and durable
  • Water-resistant
  • Can be used for a variety of applications
  • Available in a variety of widths and lengths

Disadvantages

  • Not as easy to tear by hand as other types of tape
  • Can leave residue if removed
  • Can be difficult to remove if left on for an extended period of time.
Duct tape

Water-Activated Tape (WAT)

WAT is a type of paper tape that is activated by water, making it an ideal option for sealing heavy-duty boxes and packages. The tape is made of a thick, kraft paper material and has a water-activated adhesive on one side. This type of tape is often used in industrial and commercial packaging applications and is known for its strength and durability. Customization options include printing company logos or branding on the tape.

Advantages

  • Water-activated adhesive provides a strong bond, making it suitable for heavy-duty packages
  • Made of durable kraft paper material
  • Reinforced version available
  • Customizable with company branding or logos

Disadvantages

  • Requires a water-activated dispenser to apply the tape
  • Not as versatile as other types of tape, as it can only be used for specific packaging applications
Water activated paper tape

Film Tape

Film tape is a type of tape that is made of a thin, clear plastic material. It is often used in packaging applications where visibility of the package’s contents is important, such as with retail packaging. The tape has a strong adhesive that is suitable for a variety of packaging materials. Customization options include printing company logos or branding on the tape.

Advantages

  • Clear plastic material allows for visibility of package contents
  • Strong adhesive suitable for a variety of packaging materials
  • Customizable with company branding or logos

Disadvantages

  • Not as durable as other types of tape
  • Can be easily torn or punctured

Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape is a type of tape that has adhesive on both sides, making it ideal for attaching items together without leaving a residue. This tape is often used in packaging applications where a clean and professional look is desired, such as with retail packaging. The tape can be made of a variety of materials, such as paper, plastic, or foam.

Advantages

  • Adhesive on both sides allows for attaching items together without leaving residue
  • Can be made of a variety of materials

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty packaging applications
  • Can be difficult to remove without leaving residue

Summary: Which Packaging Tape Should You Choose?

In conclusion, there are many different types of packaging tape available, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to choose the right type of tape for your specific packaging application, whether it be a light-duty package or a heavy-duty package, a clean and professional look or a durable and strong hold. With the right tape, you can ensure that your packages are secure and protected during transit and storage. And if you want to add your branding on the tape, it is a good way to make your brand more memorable to the customers.

If you are interested in packaging tape, stock or custom, then contact Brown Packaging today for assistance.

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Retail packaging continues to evolve as brands balance sustainability, supply chain performance, and consumer experience. In 2026, buyers face new challenges shaped by material innovation, compliance requirements, and rising consumer expectations. Understanding these trends helps companies stay competitive while aligning packaging programs with industry standards. Sustainability Becomes Non-Negotiable Greater use of recyclable and compostable substrates. Retailers pushing suppliers toward FSC-certified materials. Minimalist designs that reduce waste without losing impact. Smarter Packaging for Supply Chains Increased adoption of right-sizing to reduce freight costs. Boxes designed for automation and faster fulfillment. Stronger corrugated grades to withstand long e-commerce journeys. Enhanced Consumer Experience Custom graphics for seasonal campaigns and limited editions. Tear strips, resealable closures, and window cutouts for convenience. Premium finishes that elevate gift packaging at retail. Growth of Hybrid Packaging Formats Combining corrugated strength with folding carton graphics. Modular designs for multi-SKU and club store environments. Packaging engineered to serve both e-commerce and in-store needs. Compliance and Testing Standards Retailers demanding ISTA and ASTM testing for packaging durability. Supply chain audits on recyclability and sustainability claims. More pressure for transparent reporting on environmental impact. Retail Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps brands adapt to evolving retail packaging trends. From sustainable substrates to automation-friendly designs, our solutions balance branding, durability, and compliance for 2026. Contact us to prepare your packaging program for the year ahead. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Packaging Certification Guidelines. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Packaging Trends and Consumer Insights. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts

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Packaging compliance is no longer optional—it’s a requirement for accessing retail shelves, shipping networks, and international markets. In 2026, buyers must navigate evolving regulations around sustainability, labeling, and testing to avoid costly fines, rejected shipments, or damaged customer relationships. Why Compliance Matters in 2026 Retail requirements: Major retailers demand FSC, ISTA, and sustainability certifications. E-commerce standards: Carriers enforce dimensional weight and package testing rules. Global trade: Export packaging must comply with ISPM 15, ASTM, and ISO guidelines. Consumer trust: Transparency in packaging claims impacts purchasing decisions. Key Compliance Areas for Buyers Material sourcing: FSC-certified corrugated and board for sustainability. Labeling standards: GS1-compliant barcodes and accurate product details. Durability testing: ISTA and ASTM protocols for drop, vibration, and compression. Sustainability regulations: Requirements for recyclable or compostable materials. Chemical restrictions: Compliance with FDA, EU, or state-specific standards. Common Compliance Challenges Keeping up with frequent regulatory changes. Managing multiple certifications across suppliers. Balancing compliance with cost-efficiency. Verifying supplier claims for sustainability. Best Practices for Staying Compliant Audit suppliers annually to confirm certification validity. Run internal packaging tests before scaling. Track regulatory updates for each region you ship to. Work with experienced partners who understand industry compliance. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging helps buyers meet 2026 compliance standards with FSC-certified materials, ISTA-tested designs, and regulatory expertise. Our team ensures your packaging meets retailer, carrier, and sustainability requirements. Contact us to keep your program compliant. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgInternational Safe Transit Association (ISTA). (2023). ISTA Testing Procedures for Transport Packaging. Retrieved from https://ista.orgGS1. (2024). Global Standards for Packaging and Labeling. Retrieved from https://www.gs1.org (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Categories: Corrugated Ecommerce ESD Design Display Flexible Packaging Foam Folding Carton Packaging Plastic Packaging Pouch Printing Protection Retail Rigid Box Thermoform Sustainability Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Custom Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts

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In 2026, sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a buyer expectation. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification has become a key benchmark for responsible packaging, signaling that materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests. For packaging buyers, FSC certification is more than a compliance checkbox—it’s a brand value that influences purchasing decisions, retailer acceptance, and customer loyalty. What Is FSC Certification? The Forest Stewardship Council certifies that paper-based packaging materials are sourced from forests managed for environmental responsibility, social benefit, and economic viability. FSC Mix: Packaging contains a blend of FSC-certified and controlled wood. FSC Recycled: Packaging is made entirely from recycled fiber. FSC 100%: Packaging is sourced only from FSC-certified forests. Why FSC Matters to Buyers in 2026 Retail access: Many major retailers now require FSC-certified packaging. Sustainability goals: Aligns with corporate ESG and carbon reduction commitments. Consumer trust: Customers recognize the FSC label and view it as credible. Global compliance: Meets international sustainability regulations. How FSC Certification Strengthens Brand Value Differentiation: Stand out with certified sustainable packaging. Marketing advantage: FSC logos reinforce eco-friendly messaging. Risk reduction: Verified sourcing prevents greenwashing claims. Customer loyalty: Environmentally conscious buyers prefer certified products. Challenges in FSC Implementation Limited supply of certain FSC substrates. Higher costs compared to non-certified materials. Need for supplier audits and documentation. Packaging Solutions with Brown Packaging Brown Packaging partners with buyers to integrate FSC-certified materials into corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and retail packaging. Our solutions support sustainability while maintaining cost efficiency and protection. Contact us to strengthen your brand with FSC-certified packaging. References Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). (2023). FSC Certification Guidelines for Packaging. Retrieved from https://fsc.orgSustainable Packaging Coalition. (2023). Consumer Insights on Sustainable Packaging. Retrieved from https://sustainablepackaging.orgSoroka, W. (2009). Fundamentals of Packaging Technology (4th ed.). Institute of Packaging Professionals. (714)300-0650 request@brownpackaging.com Most Recent Posts: Subscribe To Our Newsletter By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Sustainable Packaging Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Relevant Posts

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Creating Competitive Packaging: A Small Business Guide

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Packaging Guide to High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

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Balancing Branding and Performance in Retail Boxes

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