As a distributor, it is important to know the different types of wholesale packing tape. This knowledge helps you guide your customers to the best tape for their needs.
Each type of tape has unique features that make it ideal for different applications. In this guide, we’ll compare kraft tape and poly tape to help you provide the right solutions for your clients’ packaging requirements.
What is Kraft Tape?
Kraft paper forms the base of kraft tape and is popular for brands who focus on eco-friendly packaging. This type of tape comes in water-activated forms. It bonds strongly to boxes, which makes it great for shipping boxes that need secure and tamper-evident seals.
Water-Activated Kraft Paper Tape
When moistened, water-activated kraft paper tape, also called gummed tape, forms a strong bond with the surface of the box.
This packing tape offers extra security because peeling it off damages the box, making it tamper-evident. It also contains reinforced paper fibers for added strength, making it suitable for heavy-duty packaging applications.
Pro Tip for Distributors: Water-activated kraft tape is ideal for environmentally conscious brands. It’s biodegradable and recyclable, adding an eco-friendly touch to packaging while offering a professional, secure seal.
What is Poly Tape?
Manufacturers create wholesale poly tape from plastic materials like polypropylene, which makes it durable, flexible, and moisture-resistant. Poly tape is a great option for packing needs. It sticks well to different surfaces and does not need water to activate.
Advantages of Poly Tape
Businesses often choose poly tape for high-volume packaging operations because it applies easily and offers durability. Many businesses use custom printed tape in poly form to add logos or branding to their packages.
Poly tape also holds up well in different climates, making it suitable for a variety of custom packaging needs. Unlike kraft tape, poly tape is available in clear, allowing for a clean look on branded packages.
Kraft Tape vs. Poly Tape: Which Is Better for Your Clients?
Choosing between kraft tape and poly tape depends on your clients’ specific needs. Here’s a breakdown to help you guide them.
Strength and Durability
For heavy-duty applications, water-activated kraft tape provides a secure, tamper-evident seal. Reinforced water-activated tape has fibers embedded within it, adding strength and making it perfect for shipping heavy items.
Poly tape is also durable, though it doesn’t bond as strongly to the box surface as kraft tape. It’s flexible and works well for general sealing tapes needs, especially in fast-paced environments where ease of use is key.
Environmental Impact
For environmentally conscious brands, kraft paper tape is ideal. Kraft tape biodegrades and you can recycle it with the box, providing an eco-friendly option. Reinforced paper versions are not as eco-friendly because of the fibers. However, they still provide a sustainable option compared to plastic-based tapes.
Poly tape, being plastic-based, is not biodegradable. It’s a good choice for clients prioritizing durability but may not appeal to brands focused on sustainability. As a distributor, you can recommend kraft tape to eco-conscious clients and poly tape for those needing durability in various conditions.
Cost and Efficiency
Poly tape is usually less expensive than kraft tape. This makes it a good choice for businesses that need a lot of packing tape. It doesn’t require special equipment and works well with standard tape dispensers.
Water-activated kraft tape requires a gummed tape dispenser to activate the adhesive, which can add to the cost. However, the added security and professional look may be worth it for brands that value tamper-evident packaging.
Branding Options
Clients can customize both kraft and poly tapes with custom printed designs to enhance brand messaging. Poly tape is commonly chosen for custom packaging because it holds colors and logos well.
Kraft tape offers a natural look that appeals to eco-friendly brands. Custom kraft tape with logos or branding can add an upscale touch to any package, aligning well with brands that emphasize sustainability.
Specialty Uses for Kraft and Poly Tape
Different businesses may have specific packaging needs that favor either kraft or poly tape. Here are a few examples to help guide your clients.
Heavy-Duty Shipping and Security
For clients shipping heavy or fragile items, reinforced water-activated tape is a top choice. This type of kraft paper tape has fibers embedded within it, providing extra durability and security.
The tamper-evident feature is great for clients who want extra protection for their shipments.
Fast-Paced Packaging Environments
For businesses that need to pack items quickly, poly tape may be the better option. Poly tape does not require water activation, so it’s ideal for high-volume packaging environments.
It works well with tape dispensers and is great for clients looking for efficient, reliable sealing in fast-paced settings.
Helping Your Clients Seal Success with the Right Tape
By helping your clients choose the right wholesale packing tape, you can improve their packaging efficiency and boost their brand. Choose from different types of packing tape such as secure and eco-friendly kraft paper tape or strong and flexible poly tape. Packing tape wholesale solutions provide many options. You can customize these options to meet your client’s needs.
Interested in offering custom tape solutions to your clients? Explore our range of wholesale packing tape options to find the perfect solution for your clients’ needs.
Wholesale Packing Tape FAQs
What makes kraft tape tamper-evident?
Water-activated kraft tape bonds strongly to the box surface. When someone tries to remove it, the tape damages the surface of the box, making any tampering obvious. This is why people often use kraft tape for shipping boxes that require extra security.
Is poly tape suitable for eco-conscious brands?
Plastic materials used in poly tape make it unsuitable for eco-friendly brands because it does not biodegrade. For environmentally conscious clients, kraft paper tape is a better option because it’s recyclable and biodegradable.
Can clients customize kraft tape with branding?
Yes, custom kraft tape is a popular choice for brands wanting an eco-friendly look with added branding. Clients can print logos, colors, or messages on kraft tape to enhance their brand image while keeping a natural look.
Does water-activated kraft tape require special equipment?
Yes, water-activated kraft paper tape requires a gummed tape dispenser to activate the adhesive. This added step provides a secure seal and a professional look but may require a small investment in equipment.
What’s the best tape option for heavy-duty shipments?
For heavy-duty shipments, reinforced water-activated tape is ideal. It contains reinforced paper fibers that add strength, making it a great option for securing heavy or valuable items during transit.
Can I buy custom printed packing tape wholesale for my clients?
Yes, custom printed packing tape wholesale options are available for both kraft and poly tape. These tapes display logos, brand colors, or messages, which makes them a functional and effective branding tool. Wholesale purchasing ensures cost-effective solutions for distributors managing large-scale orders. Browse our selection of wholesale packing tape today and download our free promotional flyer to start promoting this product to your clients.