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Custom Paper Packaging Tape vs. PVC Packaging Tape
A Comprehensive Comparison
If you found yourself shopping for customized packaging tape, you probably discovered that there are a lot of options and decisions to make before you can order. You need to select a tape thickness, width, length, color, amount, and most importantly, tape type. While packing tape can come in a variety of materials, two of the most commonly used custom packing tapes are either made from paper or PVC.
Opting to add your branding to your shipping tape is a pretty big decision on it’s own. Trying to determine if it’s best for your business to use custom printed tape or custom boxes can be a challenge for a business owner, large or small. It’s true that many businesses eventually decide that custom tape is the way to go, however, the decision-making doesn’t stop there.
When it comes to enhancing your brand’s packaging while ensuring secure shipments, choosing the right packaging tape type is key.
Phoenix Tape & Supply offers a range of custom printed and branded tapes that business owners rely on for affordable yet effective branding solutions. In this guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between paper packaging tape and PVC packaging tape, highlighting their benefits, drawbacks, and suitability for various packing needs.
Paper Packaging Tape
Paper packaging tape, also known as reinforced paper tape or kraft tape, is a versatile and eco-friendly option that appeals to environmentally-conscious businesses. This tape is manufactured from renewable resources, making it a sustainable choice. Paper tape features a water-activated adhesive that forms a strong bond with cardboard surfaces, ensuring secure sealing for your packages. The paper tape’s reinforced fibers enhance its tear-resistant properties, making it a reliable option for lightweight to medium-weight packages. Its easy customization with your brand’s logo or message makes it an attractive choice for adding a personalized touch to your shipments. However, paper packaging tape may not be suitable for heavy-duty packages or environments with high humidity.
PVC Packaging Tape
PVC packaging tape, on the other hand, offers exceptional strength and durability, making it an excellent choice for heavy and bulky shipments. This plastic tape is resistant to water, abrasion, and UV light, ensuring that your packages remain secure and intact even under challenging conditions. PVC tape provides a high level of tamper-evidence, making it a preferred option for valuable or sensitive contents. Its smooth surface allows for high-quality printing of custom designs and branding, however, it lacks the ability to display sharp details at the same level as paper tape. It’s also worth noting that PVC tape is not as eco-friendly as paper packaging tape due to its plastic composition.
Questions We Get About Paper & PVC Tape
Is Paper Tape or Plastic Tape Better?
The choice between paper packaging tape and PVC packaging tape depends on your specific packaging needs. Paper tape is a sustainable option for lightweight to medium-weight packages, providing a natural and rustic look. PVC tape, on the other hand, offers superior strength and is suitable for heavy-duty applications and environments where additional protection is required.
Is Paper Packing Tape as Strong as Plastic?
Paper packaging tape’s reinforced fibers give it considerable strength and tear resistance, making it suitable for securing packages with moderate weight. While PVC tape offers higher tensile strength and is better suited for heavy or bulky shipments, paper tape can provide ample strength for most everyday packing requirements.
- Our PVC tape comes in two strengths, allowing up to 40 lbs or more on the heavy-duty grade options.
- Our reinforced paper tape comes in two strengths, allowing up to 30 lbs or more on the heavy-duty grade options.
Is PVC Tape Good for Packing?
Yes, PVC packaging tape is an excellent choice for packing, especially when dealing with heavy or valuable items. Its durability and resistance to various environmental factors make it a reliable option for securing packages during transit.
What is Kraft Tape?
Kraft tape, also known as paper packaging tape or reinforced paper tape, is a type of packaging tape made from natural, renewable resources. It features an adhesive activated by water and is reinforced with fibers for added strength. Kraft tape is an eco-friendly option suitable for lightweight to medium-weight packages.
What is PVC Tape?
PVC tape is a type of plastic tape made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It offers high tensile strength, durability, and resistance to water, abrasion, and UV light. PVC tape is ideal for heavy-duty packages and situations where enhanced tamper-evidence is required.
What is the Most Affordable Custom Packing Tape Option?
For an affordable custom packing tape option, our polypropylene tape is often the preferred choice. Our poly tapes start at $220, come in a variety of lengths and widths, offer sharp detailed printing and offer unmatched strength. It is best applied to corrugated cardboard surfaces.
Between PVC and paper tape, the next most affordable option is custom PVC tape.
And the Winner Is...
Both are great depending on your needs and budget:
- Paper tape is recyclable, and allows for sharp details, but has a higher starting price.
- PVC tape works great on a variety of packaging surfaces and is the less expensive option, however, it does have limitations on graphic details.
Phoenix Tape & Supply offers a wide range of customizable options to cater to your specific packaging needs. Whether you prioritize eco-friendliness, strength, or branding, our selection of custom printed tapes ensures that you find the perfect solution for enhancing your packaging while staying within budget. Contact us today to explore the possibilities of custom packaging tape for your business.
