Sustainability is important to us, even down to materials we use for our packaging. One of our key goals is to reduce plastic consumption, which is why we explored alternatives like paper tape for securing our shipments instead of plastic tape. As part of our commitment to reducing plastic waste, we tested two types of paper tape to see which one was durable enough to withstand the hustle and bustle of the delivery process. Our Digital Supervisor, Neil Gosling, took the lead in conducting a series of real-world tests.

The Paper Tape Contenders

Before conducting our tests, we initially believed that the paper tape options would perform well. However, we wanted to be certain that switching to paper tape was the right decision for us. It was essential to determine whether it could match the strength and reliability of plastic tape, ensuring our boxes, and ultimately our customers' items, remained secure throughout the delivery process.

We tested two types of tape:

• Subject 1 – A strong paper tape
• Subject 2 – A reinforced paper tape

The Putting Paper Tape to the Test 'Test'

To ensure a fair comparison, we followed a structured testing approach under consistent conditions. The boxes used were standard shipping cartons, each filled with approximately 12 kg of paper to simulate a typical package weight. The tapes were selected based on their common use in sustainable packaging, with Subject 1 being a popular strong paper tape, albeit a non-reinforced option and Subject 2 a reinforced paper tape for durability. While we anticipated that, by putting paper tape to the test, the reinforced tape would likely perform better, our goal was to determine which option was sufficiently strong for our boxes. To gain clarity on what is needed to ensure the safe transport of our customers' goods, preventing damage or loss.

Box Preparation

We filled identical boxes with paper and applied three equal strips of each tape from top to bottom.

Drop Test

Each box was dropped from a height of 1 metre (waist height) to test the tape's strength.

• Result: Subject 1 completely failed, causing the box to split open.

• Result: Subject 2 remained intact with no visible damage. (Unfortunately we didn't take a photo of the result for this, but we can assure you there were no signs of damage)

Postal Test

The real test: could the boxes survive a delivery journey?

• Subject 1: Had to be repacked due to severe damage. Upon return, the tape had split again.
• Subject 2: Sent in its original form and returned completely unscathed.

Ultimate Test

We took things a step further, dropping the Subject 2 box from a first-floor gantry (with strict health and safety measures in place!).

• Result: The box split, but the tape held firm, proving its superior durability. To ensure a fair comparison, we followed a structured testing approach:

The Verdict

Based on our findings from the 'Putting Paper Tape to the Test, Test'. We compared Strength & Durability, Subject 2 – the reinforced paper tape – was the clear winner. It provided exceptional strength, ensuring our packages stayed secure throughout the delivery process.

As a result, we have adopted this tape for our packaging and even branded it with our logo. This not only reinforces our commitment to sustainability but also ensures our packages are instantly recognisable, even if a delivery label is lost or unreadable.

Make Your Packaging Stand Out

If you're looking to make your business more sustainable and want your company name or log printed on your tape,

Get in touch to get your company branded tape call 01702 613141 or email print@formara.co.uk

We can also help you by creating eco-friendly branded packaging that enhances your deliveries while reducing environmental impact.