The three main types of tape used by manufacturers for packaging and transport of products include hot melt, acrylic, and water activated. Let’s unroll the differences.

Hot Melt Tape

Hot melt packaging tape is a high-tack adhesive tape that is easy to apply and best used for items that will not be in extreme conditions. Its top features include:

• Strong immediate hold
• High tack adhesive, however, it will weaken over long periods or in cold temperatures
• Very compatible with boxes made with high recycled content
• Easy to apply for packers
• Great with automated box tapers
• Easy to open for end users
• Stays secured in temperatures between 45 degrees and 120 degrees 

Acrylic Tape

Acrylic tape is a pressure-sensative, long-performance tape that uses a chemical glue to ensure the tape sticks in extreme conditions. Its top features include:

• High tack adhesive with long-term performance
• Durable to extreme conditions, such as being exposed to high heat and sunlight
• Great for boxes being stored in non-temperature controlled warehouses
• Great for boxes being transported through high-temperature regions
• Stay secured in a wide range of temperatures between 32 degrees and 140 degrees

Water Activated Tape

Water activated tape is a highly tamper-proof tape that requires a special machine to apply a layer of moisture to activate the adhesive. Its top features include:

• Extremely high tack adhesive
• Tamper-resistant, cannot be opened and retaped
• Great for items where theft protection is a high priority, such as pharmaceuticals and valuable electronics
• Highly durable and strong, making it great for heavy items
• Easy to print on for customization and branding
• A paper-based environmentally friendly option

While water activated tape may be more expensive than others, many manufacturers find they save money in the long run due to reducing theft, product damages, and wasted material.