Water Activated Tape

Water-activated tape, also known as gummed paper tape or kraft paper tape, is a carton-sealing tape with an adhesive that is activated by water. Once moistened and applied to a corrugated carton, the adhesive bonds with the carton surface to create a strong and secure seal.

Water-activated tape passes across a moistened brush in a manual or electric dispenser. The water activates the adhesive on the underside of the tape, which is then applied to the carton. The activated adhesive bonds with the fibres of the cardboard rather than simply sitting on the surface.

Water-activated tape provides strong carton adhesion, a professional appearance and a tamper-evident seal. Paper-based options can also help businesses reduce their reliance on conventional plastic packaging tapes. It is widely used in warehouses, distribution centres, e-commerce fulfilment and other carton-packing operations.

Water-activated tape forms a strong bond with corrugated cardboard because the activated adhesive interacts with the carton surface. The appropriate tape depends on carton weight, board quality, transport conditions and whether reinforced or non-reinforced tape is required.

Non-reinforced water-activated tape uses a paper backing without additional reinforcement and is generally suited to lighter and standard carton-sealing applications. Reinforced water-activated tape contains reinforcing filaments that provide additional strength and tear resistance, making it more suitable for heavier cartons and demanding transport conditions.

Yes. Water-activated tape needs to be evenly moistened before application, so a dedicated water-activated tape dispenser is recommended. Gateway Packaging offers both manual and electric water-activated tape dispensers to suit different packing volumes and applications.

A manual dispenser can be suitable for lower-volume carton sealing, occasional use or packing areas without convenient access to electricity. Electric dispensers are generally better suited to medium- and higher-volume operations where speed, consistency and predetermined tape lengths can improve packing efficiency.

Yes. Because water-activated tape bonds closely with the corrugated carton surface, attempts to remove the tape can damage or visibly disturb the carton or tape. This can make evidence of package interference easier to identify than with some conventional carton-sealing tapes.

Many water-activated tapes are paper-based and designed to be compatible with corrugated packaging recycling. However, recyclability can vary depending on the tape construction, particularly with reinforced products, as well as the requirements of the local recycling facility. Check the specifications of the particular tape when recyclability is an important requirement.

Water-activated tape can be suitable for many recycled corrugated cartons. Performance can vary according to the quality, recycled content and condition of the carton surface, so testing the tape on your cartons is recommended when introducing a new packaging system.

The appropriate width depends on factors including carton size, weight, board quality and the level of sealing strength required. It is also important to make sure the selected tape width and roll dimensions are compatible with your water-activated tape dispenser.

Yes, but the correct grade should be selected. Reinforced water-activated tape is generally the better choice for heavier cartons or packages exposed to demanding handling and transport conditions because its reinforcing filaments provide additional strength and tear resistance.

Yes. Water-activated tape is well suited to e-commerce and fulfilment operations because it provides secure carton sealing and a clean paper-based appearance. Businesses wanting to enhance the presentation of customer deliveries can also consider custom printed water activated tape as part of their branded packaging.

Yes. Custom printed water activated tape can incorporate a company logo, brand name or approved messaging directly onto the tape. This allows businesses to combine secure carton sealing with branding and create a more professional presentation for e-commerce, retail and customer-facing shipments. Custom water activated tape can therefore provide both a functional carton seal and an additional branding opportunity.

Depending on the printing specifications available, custom water activated tape can feature logos, company names, brand messaging, handling instructions or other approved artwork. Printing colours, artwork requirements, minimum quantities and available tape specifications should be confirmed when requesting a custom tape quotation.

Yes, provided the custom printed water activated tape meets the width, roll size and material specifications supported by the dispenser. Gateway Packaging can help businesses match the appropriate custom tape specification with a compatible manual or electric water-activated tape dispenser.

Consider your carton sizes, packed carton weight, daily packing volume, transport conditions and whether you require reinforced or non-reinforced tape. You should also consider whether you need standard kraft tape or a custom printed option. Gateway Packaging can help assess your application and recommend a suitable tape and dispenser combination.