What type of tape is the best choice for your moving boxes? If you’re not sure how to seal your moving boxes correctly, take a look at what you need to know about this essential packing tool.

Is There a Right Tape for Every Box?

Simply stated – no. From types of tape to sizes and manufacturers, you’ll find a variety of these adhesivebacked products in stores and online. The tape you choose for each box depends on what the container is made from, its size, and the overall use. If you’ll move under extremely warm, cold, or damp conditions, choose a tape that works in the climate. You may need a waterproof or temperature-resistant product.

Storage, packing and shipping, and duct tapes are popular choices. While these types of tapes won’t work for every container, they’re inexpensive options that can hold together basic cardboard moving boxes.

Is There a Wrong Tape to Use for Moving?

Some tape types won’t adequately secure moving boxes or containers. For example, the thin magic tape you wrap presents with, the therapeutic tape you bandage your aching muscles in, electrical tape, masking tape, and craft tape (such as washi tape) won’t hold heavy boxes closed or prevent spills while moving. Not only are some of these tape types too flimsy to use for your move, therapeutic, electrical, and crafting products are expensive options that can increase your overall moving budget.

Along with these types of tapes, avoid double-sided products. The outer adhesive layer will trap debris and could attach itself to other boxes, bags, or furniture.

Duct tape is a strong, inexpensive option that can hold together cardboard boxes. But it can also leave behind a sticky, hard-to-remove residue. If you plan to throw away or recycle the boxes after your move, duct tape is an acceptable adhesive-based product to use. Avoid this type of tape if you want to reuse the boxes or plan to pack everything in plastic bins.

What Size Tape Is the Best Option?

There’s no universal or standard answer to this question. The best size tape is the one that fits the box. If the product isn’t wide enough to hold a box together or doesn’t span the closure, it’s too small. Slim gift wrap types of tape typically aren’t wide enough to close a standard moving box.

Beyond the area of the box the tape needs to cover, the product’s width can also impact strength. A heavier box requires a wider and stronger tape to prevent mid-moves breaks or spills.

Do You Need to Tape Moving Boxes?

Cardboard boxes fold to fit together. But does this mean you can skip the tape step? Even though cardboard containers may stay closed when folded for storage, moving is another story.

The mover will need to lift, carry, and transport your boxes. This means a folded box could easily open in the moving contractor’s arms, on a dolly, or in the truck. Avoid unnecessary spills and property damage with a well-secured, taped box.

Will You Need Tape Accessories to Move?

A roll of tape isn’t always enough to completely pack your belongings for a move. You may also need a few accessories. These could include a tape dispenser (with a sharp cutting edge), scissors, permanent markers, and labels.

Some types of tape have a slick or shiny surface. This makes it difficult to write the contents of the container directly onto the tape. If the marks smudge or transfer off of the tape immediately, add a plain address-style label onto the box or over the tape.

Do you need help with your next move? Contact Island Movers Inc. for more information.