Gummed paper tape

Gummed Paper Tape

Gummed paper tape is a water activated paper tape designed for sealing boxes and cartons securely. Made from brown kraft paper with a natural adhesive, it bonds directly to cardboard fibres to create a strong, tamper-evident seal. As an eco friendly alternative to plastic tapes, gummed paper tape has become a popular choice for ecommerce, fulfilment operations and any company that needs reliable packaging performance.

Often referred to as kraft paper tape, gummed paper tape is made from brown kraft paper and a water activated adhesive.

Once applied with water and pressure, the self adhesive paper tape penetrates the surface of the box and forms a bond that is difficult to tear away without visible damage.

Gummed paper tape must be used with a suitable dispenser. View our full range of gummed paper tape dispensers here.

Paper Tape for Secure Sealing Boxes and Cartons

Paper tape works by activating the adhesive with water before it is applied to a cardboard box. When pressed onto the surface, the adhesive bonds with the fibres of the box to create a secure seal. This bonding process strengthens the cartons and improves overall protection during transit.

Key features include:

• Strong adhesive that bonds with cardboard
• Designed for sealing boxes and cartons
• Tamper-evident finish that shows if the tape has been removed
• Suitable for parcels of varying weight
• Brown kraft paper construction for a clean finish

Unlike some parcel tape products that sit on the surface, gummed paper tape creates a bond with the box itself. Once applied and dried, it forms a secure line across the flaps, helping ensure parcels remain closed during handling and shipping.

Benefits of Gummed Paper Tape

Gummed paper tape offers a number of benefits over plastic tapes. Because it is made from kraft paper and starch-based adhesive, it can be fully recycled with the board once used. This makes it an eco friendly alternative for businesses looking to reduce plastic within their packaging systems.

Key benefits include:

• Manufactured from kraft paper, including renewable kraft paper options
• Typically recycled with cardboard through standard recycling processes
• Designed to be recycled with the box in most standard paper recycling streams
• Reduced reliance on plastic tapes
• Minimal waste, as only the required number of metres is dispensed

In many operations, this paper parcel tape has become the norm due to its performance and sustainability profile. When cartons reach end of life, they can typically enter standard recycling streams, depending on local authority processes.

Because the tape is dispensed to the exact length required, it leaves little excess material. This can help reduce waste and improve cost control when purchasing packaging in larger quantities.

Performance in Different Temperatures

Gummed paper tape performs reliably across a wide range of temperatures. Once the adhesive is activated with water and applied correctly, it remains strong in both warm and chilled temperatures.

Once dried, the adhesive forms a strong bond that maintains performance during storage and transit.

It is suitable for:

• Cold storage environments
• Chilled temperatures during transit
• Warehouses where cartons are stored for longer periods

The bond created between the paper tape and cardboard remains secure even when parcels are exposed to temperature changes. This makes it a dependable option for shipping products that may be stored or transported in varying conditions.

Types of Gummed Paper Tape Available

We offer several types of gummed paper tape to suit different applications, all manufactured from brown kraft paper and supplied on roll formats.

Standard Paper Tape

Standard paper tape is available in 60gsm and 90gsm options. It is ideal for everyday sealing boxes, smaller parcels and pre-pack work.

Features include:

• Brown paper construction
• Supplied on roll lengths to reduce changeovers
• Compatible with selected hand dispensers
• Suitable for general parcel tape use

This option is designed for businesses that need a reliable, cost-effective paper parcel tape for standard cartons.

Reinforced Gummed Paper Tape

Reinforced gummed paper tape is manufactured in heavier grades such as 130gsm and includes glass fibre yarn for added strength. This reinforced structure makes the tape strong and capable of handling larger parcels.

It is:

• Reinforced for extra durability
• Suitable for heavier cartons
• Designed to create a secure seal on larger boxes

Reinforced tape is often chosen where security and strength are required, particularly for parcels that may experience more demanding handling during shipping.

Gum Side In and Dispenser Compatibility

All gummed paper tape is water activated and must be used with a suitable dispenser. See our range of gummed paper tape dispensers to ensure correct application.

To use correctly:

• Load the roll with the gum side facing the brushes
• Allow water to moisten the adhesive
• Cut the tape to the required length
• Apply firmly to the box

Once applied, the adhesive bonds with the cardboard surface to create a strong seal. Handheld and bench-mounted systems are available, depending on the number of parcels you need to seal each day.

Some rolls are compatible with specific models, such as BP555 dispensers, so always check product specifications before ordering.

Why Choose Gummed Paper Tape Over Plastic Tapes

Many businesses now choose gummed paper tape instead of plastic tapes for sealing boxes. Paper tape bonds directly with the cardboard, whereas plastic tape sits on the surface.

Key differences include:

• Eco friendly alternative to plastic tapes
• Recycled with the box without separation
• Creates a tamper-evident seal
• Strong bond once applied

As sustainability becomes the norm in packaging, reducing plastic where possible can improve recycling outcomes and simplify disposal.

Order Gummed Paper Tape from Kite Packaging

At Kite Packaging, our gummed paper tape range includes standard and reinforced options supplied on roll formats. Price breaks are clearly displayed on our website, allowing you to select the product and quantity required.

You can:

• Check stock availability
• Compare price tiers
• Buy online in packs or pallet quantities

Whether you need paper tape for occasional sealing boxes or higher volume operations, our company offers reliable supply and consistent product quality. If you require more information about our paper tape, feel free to contact our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gummed Paper Tape

Below are answers to common questions about gummed paper tape, including use, performance and suitability.

What is gummed paper tape?

Gummed paper tape is a water activated paper tape made from brown kraft paper with a starch-based adhesive. When applied to a box, the adhesive bonds with the cardboard to create a strong, tamper-evident seal.

Is gummed paper tape an eco friendly alternative to plastic tapes?

Yes. Gummed paper tape is widely used as an eco friendly alternative to plastic tapes because it is typically recyclable with the cardboard carton, subject to local recycling facilities. This helps reduce plastic in packaging systems and supports recycling industry processes.

Can paper tape be used in cold storage or chilled temperatures?

Yes. Once the adhesive is activated and applied correctly, paper tape performs well in cold storage and chilled temperatures. The bond remains strong during transit and when cartons are stored in varying conditions.

What is reinforced gummed paper tape used for?

Reinforced gummed paper tape contains glass fibre yarn to increase strength. It is ideal for heavier cartons and larger parcels where additional security and durability are required.

Do I need a dispenser to use gummed paper tape?

Yes. Gummed paper tape must be used with a suitable dispenser. The system applies water to activate the adhesive, cuts the tape to the required length and prepares it for sealing boxes efficiently.

Is gummed paper tape suitable for picture framing or acid free applications?

Gummed paper tape is commonly used for sealing boxes and cartons. If you require tape specifically for picture framing or acid free applications, you should check the product specifications to ensure it meets your particular requirements.

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