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10 Best Packing Tapes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotch Heavy Duty Packaging Tape, 1.88" x 22.2 yd, Designed for Packing, Shipping and Mailing, Strong Seal on All Box Types, 1.5" Core, Clear, 6 Rolls with Dispenser (142-6)

Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packing Tape is designed for anyone needing reliable and effective sealing solutions for moving, packing, or shipping. With six rolls included in dispensers, it offers convenience and excellent holding power, making it ideal for securely sealing boxes. The industrial-strength adhesive is solvent-free and adheres well, even to recycled boxes. One standout feature is its ability to seal boxes with just one strip, reducing the hassle of multiple layers of tape—great for those who want to save time and effort. The tape is also resistant to slivering, splitting, and tearing, ensuring that your boxes stay strong during transit.

While the tape provides good adhesion and strength, it may not perform as well in extreme temperatures or under prolonged UV exposure, which could be a concern for long-term storage or outdoor shipping. Additionally, being a clear tape means any imperfections or dust can be more noticeable on the surface. Some users may find that while the dispensers are handy, they can also be a little tricky for those who aren't familiar with using tape dispensers, potentially leading to some frustration.

If you're looking for a reliable packing tape for everyday shipping and moving tasks, Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packing Tape is a solid choice. It combines convenience and strength, making it suitable for a wide range of packing needs, although specific environmental conditions should be considered to ensure optimal performance.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Adhesive Type
The tape is super strong, sticks well, and stays secure even on heavier packages.
Tape Thickness
Thicker and better quality than most generic brands.
#2

Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packing Tape, Clear, Shipping and Packaging Supplies, 1.88 in. x 54.6 yd., 6 Tape Rolls

The Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packing Tape is designed to effectively meet the demands of packing and shipping. With six rolls included, each measuring 1.88 inches wide and offering a substantial length of 54.6 yards, it provides excellent value for those needing to seal boxes securely. One of its standout features is the industrial-strength adhesive that adheres quickly, ensuring your boxes remain sealed even under rough handling. This tape is versatile, working well on various box types, including recycled materials, which is great for eco-conscious users.

Another advantage is its durability; it resists slivering, splitting, and tearing, meaning you can often seal a box with just one strip, saving time and effort. This makes it ideal for anyone engaged in frequent shipping or moving, as well as seasonal storage needs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Adhesive Type
The adhesive is strong enough to hold securely, but also allows for easy repositioning if needed.
Tensile Strength
The Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packing Tape is incredibly strong and durable, providing a secure and long-lasting seal for all packages.
#3

Scotch Sure Start Packing Tape, Clear, Quiet Unwind and Easy Start, Moving Supplies, 1.88 in. x 22.2 yd., 6 Tape Rolls with Dispensers

Scotch Sure Start Packing Tape is a well-regarded option for anyone needing reliable packing solutions, whether for shipping packages, moving boxes, or storing seasonal items. One of its standout features is the quiet unwind mechanism, which allows you to use it in environments where noise might be an issue, making it perfect for both home and office settings. The tape is designed to unroll smoothly without splitting or slivering, eliminating the frustration of losing the tape's end during your packing process. This can be particularly beneficial when you're in a hurry or dealing with a large volume of goods.

In terms of durability, this tape offers a strong hold that can withstand rough handling, ensuring your packages remain securely sealed. It also comes with handy dispensers that feature fall-back tabs to keep the tape ready for use without hassle. The tape's thickness of 1 millimeter and its width of 1.88 inches are standard, allowing for versatile application on various cardboard and paper surfaces.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. One limitation is that this packing tape is not water-resistant, meaning it might not hold up well in moist environments. Additionally, while the clear finish is appealing for visibility, it may not provide the same level of concealment as colored tapes for certain applications. Those needing water resistance or a non-transparent option may want to explore other alternatives.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Adhesive Type
The adhesive strength securely seals boxes of all sizes and weights, giving peace of mind that packages will stay intact during transit.

Buying Guide for the Best Packing Tapes

Choosing the right packing tape is essential for ensuring that your packages are secure and arrive at their destination in good condition. There are various types of packing tapes available, each designed for different purposes and environments. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best tape for your needs.
Adhesive TypeThe adhesive type determines how well the tape sticks to surfaces. Common types include acrylic, hot melt, and natural rubber. Acrylic adhesives are great for long-term storage and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. Hot melt adhesives provide a strong bond and are ideal for quick sealing and shipping. Natural rubber adhesives offer excellent adhesion to various surfaces and are suitable for heavy-duty applications. Choose the adhesive type based on the conditions your package will face and the surfaces you are sealing.
Tape ThicknessTape thickness is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) and affects the tape's durability and strength. Thinner tapes (1.6-1.9 mils) are suitable for lightweight packages and short-term storage. Medium thickness tapes (2-2.5 mils) are versatile and can handle most general-purpose packaging needs. Thicker tapes (3 mils and above) are designed for heavy-duty applications and provide extra strength and durability. Consider the weight and fragility of your items when choosing the tape thickness.
Tape WidthTape width is important for ensuring that the tape covers enough surface area to secure the package. Standard widths are typically 2 inches, but wider tapes (3 inches or more) provide better coverage and are ideal for larger or heavier packages. Narrower tapes (1 inch) can be used for smaller packages or light-duty sealing. Match the tape width to the size and weight of your packages to ensure they are properly sealed.
Tensile StrengthTensile strength refers to the tape's ability to withstand pulling or stretching forces. Higher tensile strength means the tape is less likely to break under stress. This is particularly important for heavy or bulky packages. Tapes with lower tensile strength are suitable for lighter packages that do not require as much reinforcement. Assess the weight and handling conditions of your packages to determine the necessary tensile strength.
Temperature ResistanceTemperature resistance indicates how well the tape performs under different temperature conditions. Some tapes are designed to withstand extreme cold or heat, making them suitable for refrigerated storage or hot environments. If your packages will be exposed to varying temperatures, choose a tape with appropriate temperature resistance to ensure it maintains its adhesive properties and strength.
UV ResistanceUV resistance is important if your packages will be exposed to sunlight for extended periods. UV-resistant tapes are designed to withstand the degrading effects of ultraviolet light, preventing the adhesive from breaking down and the tape from becoming brittle. If your packages will be stored or transported in outdoor conditions, opt for a UV-resistant tape to ensure long-lasting performance.

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