Packaging Tape
Packaging tape, sometimes called shipping tape, is used in every industry that deals with shipping packages of any kind. It secures, closes, reinforces and prepares to mail many packages, including larger envelopes, bags, cartons and boxes. Made of heavy-duty polypropylene backing and synthetic rubber resin adhesive, packaging tape is very strong, pressure-sensitive and doesn't tear, break, burst or loosen during the shipping process. It can come in many colors-most often clear, tan or brown. Sometimes different colors can be used to designate certain destinations or shipping services. Clear tape is also used to protect mailing labels.
Generally, packaging tape is sold with a width of 2 inches, but it is available between 3/8 and 4 inches. Rolls are between 55 and 60 yards. Because it has a high adhesive strength and needs much unwinding force, packaging tape is difficult to apply using only your hands. It also cannot be torn by hand. Therefore, many brands of packaging tape are sold with hand-held dispensers, which hold the role of tape and have a device to shear the tape, easing the applying process. In the past few years, bio-degradable packaging tape has been introduced to consumers. It allows for easier disposal of packaging materials-since containers like cardboard boxes are already bio-degradable, the tape and container no longer need to be separated before being thrown away.