When moving, there are usually a lot of things on your mind. One of the least thought aspects of planning a move is which tape for moving boxes one should use. You've already thought of all the other things you need to do before you move and when it comes to packing, you're stuck, thinking, "can I use duct-tape instead of packing tape and will it hold onto my boxes?"
If you choose a tape that's not right, your boxes are bound to come undone, subjecting your items to damage. To avoid this situation, you have to evaluate the various types of tape and choose the best packing tape. You also need to make sure you are packing things correctly to avoid spillage of chemicals. You will also need to consider things that movers can not move due to safety reasons. But before evaluating the different types of tape for packing boxes that you could choose from, there are moving tips and hacks you should consider when choosing tape for boxes.
Factors to Consider
The Width of the tape
The tape you choose should be 2-3 inches wide. A wider tape is more reliable and will hold heavy boxes together. If you have to use thin tape, save it for holding different items together or for labeling.
Adhesive
The tape you're going to use for your boxes should either have acrylic or hot melt adhesive to ensure that it's stable. A weak adhesive tape will not hold your boxes for long.
Temperature
Are you moving during a hot summer day, or will you have your boxes in storage for an extended period? Are you planning to move out of state? The best tape for cardboard boxes is that which won't lose adhesion even when subjected to higher temperatures.
The Best Tape for Packing
Shipping Tape
This is usually the first tape that most people will consider when it comes to tape for holding boxes together. It's usually clear and thin and will make a ripping sound when rolling it out. It's the best tape for moving boxes in a short move.
Storage Tape
Storage tape looks just like shipping tape, but it has an acrylic adhesive that lasts longer. It's an excellent choice if you're going to put your items in storage for a long time as it can last ten years.
Brown Paper Packing Tape
This tape is best for lighter boxes, although many people use it for moving. It isn't waterproof, and it can tear quickly, which also makes it easy to use. Only use it for packing boxes that are smaller with very light items.
Filament Packing Tape
This type of packing tape has different ranges for the amount of weight it can hold. It's best to hold heavy items as it has strips of fiberglass that help make your boxes stronger. Filament packing tape can support weight between 100 pounds to 400.
Gummed Paper Tape
This tape looks just like brown paper tape. It's mostly used by online retailers and bonds with water to form a strong adhesive on the boxes you will use. It is, therefore, ideal to use on heavy boxes as it will hold well.
Please don't use the tape on a short move or light boxes since ensuring it is reinforced is a hassle. It has reinforced lines that make it stronger, thus making it more suitable for longer moves.
The Worst Packing Tape
Masking Tape
Many people use masking tape for their moving boxes. However, what they don't know is that it has a weak adhesive and isn't strong enough to pack household items for moving despite its look. It's best for wrapping items in packing paper or for holding items together using bubble wrap.
You can use masking tape to label your boxes and other items, as it won't leave any marks on your items when you remove it.
Duct Tape
Here's the big question: can I use duct-tape instead of packing tape? The most direct answer is no, but you can use it for labeling your moving boxes. Many people use duct tape for packing, but the truth is, it isn't the best tape for packing.
It has a rubber adhesive that leaves residues, and if you've used it before, you must have come across the sticky residue that it leaves behind. It is also more costly than other types of tape and doesn't hold cardboard boxes so well.
Washi Tape
This is an excellent tape for crafting but not for use on boxes. It's adhesive isn't great for sealing, nor is it the best Width for holding your boxes. However, it is very cheap, and you can use it to organize and label moving boxes.
Electrical Tape/Insulation Tape
Insulation tape isn't a good option for moving boxes. However, it's the best option to hold your wires, chargers, and cords together and organize them. You can get it off quickly, and with the different colors, you can use it to color code boxes for different rooms of your new home.
Scotch Tape
Scotch tape doesn't have a strong adhesive, so it's best to leave it for lighter jobs such as holding chords or securing your bubble wrap items. You should not use it on your packing boxes, or it'll cause them to fold or come undone.
Conclusion
You're now acquainted with the different types of tape for use on your cardboard boxes. Sometimes, we know you only have one option available. But it doesn't hurt to ask, "can I use duct tape instead of packing tape for my cardboard boxes?"
Remember, people are always in unique situations, so if that's the only option you have, save it for a very short move. Also, what may be best for someone else may not work for you concerning the factors you should consider. Your needs are what will determine the best tape for you.