Pressure-sensitive tapes are usually petroleum-based and consist of a film with a tacky substance that adheres to the intended surface when pressure is applied. They are usually applied with a hand-held tape gun or an automatic case sealer. One of the most common PSA tapes is polypropylene tape, which is usually the preferred option for quick and easy sealing of corrugated cartons. Another possibility is PVC tape, which is a high-end option.

Water-activated tapes are largely made from Kraft paper tape, either white or natural in color with a starch-based adhesive. The tape comes in different grades and lengths and often has fiberglass thread reinforcement. This kind of tape requires water to activate the adhesive as pressure alone will not suffice. It also requires a water activated-tape dispenser that will automatically moisten and cut the tape.

Here is how the two types of custom shipping tape compare across the main factors of performance, tamper resistance, productivity, appearance and branding, and budget.

Custom Printed Paper and PVC Tape

Performance

In terms of strength and performance, Water-activated tape  is an excellent tape. It has a strong adhesion that delivers excellent bonding making the tape part of the box. The only way to open a carton sealed with water-activated tape  is to cut with a knife. Water-activated tape  also has excellent performance under different climates and temperature changes. It also supports heavier loads adding strength to the packaging. It is easily printable.

PSA tapes come in different strengths or thicknesses so you can choose the best tape based upon how heavy your shipments are going to be. They are easily applied to cardboard boxes and other packaging materials. A variety of adhesives are available depending on the temperature range required for your packaging needs. They are easily printable.

Tamper Resistance

Both types of custom printed tape provide varying levels of tamper resistance. Water-activated tape a strong bond that must be cut to open the package. If an attempt is made to peel it off, it lifts about 80% of the carton’s fibers. PSA tape also offers some protection against tampering since it also leaves evidence of tampering if an attempt is made to remove it.

Secured Shipping Box
Productivity

Either type of tape can be easily applied to packaging. Carton sealing with water -activated tape is fast and easy using a water-activated tabletop tape dispenser. It wets the tape and cuts it according to the carton’s size. The pressure sensitive tapes can either be used with a hand held tape gun or automatic case sealers. As the tape is applied to the packaging, gentle pressure is applied, causing the tape to bond with the packaging material.

Budget

Your budget will play a role in determining which type of tape you use. While the water-activated tapes are economical to use, they are sold by the case and the minimum order starts with 5 cases. PSA tapes, while a bit more money per yard, start with 1 case minimums making them an economical way to try custom printed tape.

Appearance and Branding

Packaging tape is an important role in branding, so if you want your name and logo on to the boxes, you should consider custom printed tape. Both WAT and PSA tapes are easily printable, resulting in a crisp, clean print job. When combined with custom printed boxes or a simple type of packaging, custom printed tape emphasizes your brand, you can contact Yousan Tape.

Yousan tapeis a professional Pressure-sensitive tapes manufacturer with 18 years of production experience and a leading position in China. Their professional research team can produce compliant products that meet various testing regulations.

Yousan TAPE uses quality materials in their manufacturing process to ensure the durability and longevity of their Pressure-sensitive tapes. This ensures optimal performance even in harsh environmental conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

By choosing Yousan Tape China, you can be sure that you are working with a reputable manufacturer, contact us today for all your Pressure-sensitive tapes.