The production and shipping/storage environments are critical to consider when choosing packaging tape, particularly temperature and environmental conditions such as humidity and dust, as these factors can impact the application of the tape and reliability of the case seal.

Temperature includes both the application temperature, or when it’s applied, and the service temperature after it’s applied. Cold application temperature environments, like those found in dairy, meat, and produce packaging facilities, can make the tape’s adhesive brittle or unable to stick, so it’s best to look for tapes that are specifically designed to perform in those colder environments. Typically, if the tape is applied at or above 35 degrees Fahrenheit, a standard grade tape can be used even if the service temperature is below freezing. Although this does heighten the level of importance that should be placed on the application method to ensure adequate wipe down.

Environmental conditions such as humidity and dust can also impact the seal. Some tapes will not adhere if the surface is damp or covered in dust. For example, hot melt tapes are hydrophobic so may not perform well in damp or humid environments; for dusty or dirty sealing conditions, a tape with a viscous – or liquid-like – adhesive may be best as the adhesive can move around the dust particles and adhere to the carton.