Blog Posts & Case Studies
With the expansion of e-commerce, businesses are looking for more efficient and environmentally friendly ways to package and ship their products. Gummed paper tape has become a popular solution, offering significant advantages over standard plastic packaging tapes. Let’s take a closer look at why this tape is becoming the preferred choice for many fulfilment operations.
Gummed paper tape, also known as water-activated tape, is made from natural paper and starch-based adhesive. Unlike plastic tapes, which often end up in landfills, gummed paper tape is fully recyclable, making it an environmentally responsible choice. This tape forms a strong bond with the carton, providing a seal that is nearly impossible to tear off without visibly damaging the packaging.
Gummed paper tape creates a secure seal by bonding with the fibres of the box. This bond strengthens the carton and makes tampering obvious. The tape performs exceptionally well in various temperatures, making it ideal for shipping to diverse climates, from hot, humid environments to cold, deep-freeze conditions.
On the left-hand side a tampered box sealed with self-adhesive paper tape. On the right-hand side, a tampered box is sealed with reinforced paper tape.
Made from natural materials, gummed paper tape is biodegradable and recyclable. It’s a perfect choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. The tape’s composition allows it to be recycled along with the cardboard box, eliminating the need to separate materials before disposal.
Gummed paper tape is dispensed in precise amounts, ensuring minimal waste. Unlike traditional plastic tapes, which can require multiple layers to secure a package, a single strip of gummed tape is often sufficient. This precision allows businesses to estimate their annual tape needs accurately, optimising supply orders and reducing costs.
The BP555, Grip Taper, and NK4000 come with various pre-set output options.
Beyond its functional benefits, gummed paper tape enhances the appearance of packages. Its uniform, clean look adds a professional touch to shipments, reinforcing brand image while providing a package that’s difficult to tamper with.
Gummed paper tape isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your packaging needs, you can choose from different types of tape:
Standard and reinforced tape with its fibreglass wires.
Ideal for smaller packages, pre-pack work, and bulky envelopes, standard gummed paper tape is available in a 60gsm thickness and comes in 200-metre rolls. The tape is brown, blending seamlessly with cardboard boxes, and is available in widths of 48mm and 70mm to suit different parcel sizes.
Fibre-reinforced gummed paper tape is the best choice for larger parcels or shipments requiring extra security. Made from 130gsm paper and reinforced with 3-way glass fibre yarns, this tape is exceptionally strong and resistant to extreme temperatures. Available in 48, 60, and 70mm widths, it comes in 45, 100, and 200-metre rolls and ensures that your package remains secure throughout its journey. The 60mm by 45-metre rolls are for exclusive use with the portable, battery-powered Grip Taper dispenser.
Gummed paper tape is more than just a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging tapes—it’s a smarter, stronger, and more efficient solution for modern fulfilment operations. Whether you’re looking to enhance package security, improve environmental sustainability, or simply create a more professional look for your shipments, gummed paper tape is a versatile tool that meets the needs of today’s businesses.
Ready to make the switch? Explore our range of gummed paper tapes and dispensers, and take the first step towards greener, more secure packaging.