The Best Type of Packing Tape to Use When Moving

Why Choosing the Right Tape Matters

Packing a moving box like a pro means sealing it up the right way to protect your things. You often can't do that without the right tape. Choosing high-quality, appropriate packing tape helps:

• Prevent box damage and spills. Why use packing tape and not rope or other methods of securing box lids and flaps? Because high-quality tape creates a total seal, it reduces risks associated with spillage. It also helps ensure pressure points are distributed evenly across the box surface. Other methods can put undue stress on boxes, causing them to crumple or rip.
• Secure fragile and heavy items. Heavy-duty packing tape helps boxes stay closed even when heavy items shift inside. Tape can also help you keep fragile belongings from moving about, lowering the risk of damage.
• Ensure easier unpacking. The right tape is secure during transport but easy to cut or remove when it's time to unpack.

The Best Tape Types for Different Packing Needs

Clear, adhesive packing tape is the best overall tape for moving. It's designed to help you seal cardboard boxes quickly and securely. However, different types of tape might be right for other moving tasks. Check the table below to see which types are best for which jobs and what they cost, on average.

Shipping Tape vs. Packing Tape

Both of these tapes are for boxes. However, their intended use varies slightly. Shipping tape is designed for boxes that will be mailed or shipped. It's typically stronger than standard packing tape and has an adhesive designed to bond well with cardboard. It’s resistant to rough handling, moisture, and temperature changes.

General packing tape is also designed to work well with cardboard boxes, but it can be a little thinner than shipping tape or have adhesive that's not quite as robust.

Packing tape works well if you want to keep boxes closed. But shipping tape may be better if you're storing boxes long-term or toting your belongings across the country during the height of summer heat.

What Tape Types Are Bad for Packing and Moving?

 While some tapes for moving boxes are a great choice, other options don't work well. Clear tape that you use for gift wrapping, for example, doesn't work to hold boxes closed. Other options to avoid include:

• Washi tape. Patterned craft tape for scrapbooking doesn't have enough strength in its adhesive. It's fine for color-coding boxes for moving, though.
• Painter's tape. This tape also doesn't have enough adhesive power to hold boxes closed, though you might use it or masking tape for labeling boxes.
• Double-sided tape. Trying to tape boxes closed with tape that's sticky on both sides leads to frustration and messy moving.
• Duct tape or electrical tape. While these options have plenty of stickiness, they are harder to remove or cut through when you're unpacking, and can be worse when it comes to moisture or temperature changes (unless you opt for the extreme weather versions). However, if you're down to your last box and all you have is a roll of duct tape, you might use it rather than run out for more packing tape.

How to Choose the Right Tape

Choosing the best tape for moving boxes starts with knowing what you're sealing. Heavier or larger boxes typically need stronger tape. Look for reinforced or heavy-duty options with strong adhesion. For standard cardboard boxes under 50 pounds, most moving-specific packing tapes can handle the job.

Other factors to consider include:

• The surface you’re taping. Standard packing tape works great on cardboard, but it may not stick as well to plastic bins or textured surfaces. In those cases, opt for a tape with extra grip, like duct tape.
• Weather and climate. If you’re packing in humid conditions or storing boxes in a hot garage, choose a tape with acrylic adhesive. It resists temperature changes and moisture better than rubber-based options.
• Ease of removal. If you’re labeling or wrapping items temporarily, masking tape or painter’s tape might make more sense.
• Your budget. While you don’t need the most expensive tape on the shelf, bargain-bin rolls may underperform. A midrange tape with good reviews and a moving or shipping label is usually a safe and cost-effective bet.

Where to Buy Packing Tape for Moving

You might have hookups for free moving boxes, but you'll probably have to purchase tape. You can usually find packing tape at:

• Office supply stores
• Packing and moving stores
• Home improvement stores
• Club Warehouse stores
• Online retailers

Bulk buying is typically the most cost-effective way to purchase packing tape for a move, so start with online retailers, specialty packing stores, and club warehouses. In a pinch, you can buy packing tape at most large retail stores. Look for packing tape in the home improvement and tools section, rather than in office supplies, to find higher-quality tape.

How Much Packing Tape Do I Need?

You can estimate how much packing tape you'll need based on your taping preferences and how many boxes you're packing.

Decide how you're taping boxes:

• Sealing only the opening slit: One or two strips of tape across the top of the box (40-50 boxes per roll)
• Creating an H on the top of the box: One or two strips across the top center and one strip on each side where the flaps meet the side of the box. This is by far the best and most efficient taping method. (20-30 boxes per roll)
• Full wrapping: Multiple strips of tape around the entire box (10-15 boxes per roll)

A Note About Tape Dispensers

A quality tape dispenser or a tape gun can be a game-changer when packing multiple boxes. It speeds things up, saves your fingers, and helps you apply tension for a cleaner seal. Basic handheld dispensers work fine, but for large moves, a sturdy tape gun may be worth the upgrade.

Tips for Using Tape Effectively When Moving

Now that you’ve got a good idea of the best tape to use, it’s time to build, pack, and seal the boxes. For a smoother move with boxes that remain sealed, keep these taping tips in mind:

• Seal all seams and edges. Focus on the top and bottom flaps, where boxes are most likely to open under pressure.
• Use the H-taping method. Apply one strip down the center seam and one across each edge to create a strong, reinforced seal.
• Don’t overdo it. Avoid layering multiple strips of tape in the same spot. It's a waste of tape and time and doesn’t reinforce the area significantly more. One or two well-placed strips usually do the job.
• Label before sealing if needed. If you’re using masking tape or labels to mark boxes, apply them before taping the box shut.
• Write clearly on the sides. Labeling boxes on the sides (not just the top) makes it easier to identify contents when boxes are stacked.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Tape for Moving

Even the best tape for moving won't do much to protect your belongings if it's not used correctly. Avoid these common taping mistakes to ensure you're packing like a pro:

• Using the wrong type of tape. Gift wrap, washi, or painter’s tape won't hold up under the pressure of a move. Stick to packing or shipping tape designed for cardboard boxes.
• Taping over dusty, wet, or dirty surfaces. Tape needs a clean, dry surface to stick. Wipe down boxes if needed before sealing them.
• Skipping reinforcement on heavy boxes. Heavier items put more strain on taped seams. Always use extra strips or the H-taping method for added strength.
• Leaving gaps or loose edges. Make sure you press the tape down firmly along all seams and edges. Loose tape can peel back and leave your box vulnerable during the move.
• Not taking into account extreme conditions. In humid, cold, or very hot environments, lower-quality tape may lose its grip. Choose an acrylic adhesive that holds up better under temperature changes.
• Over-relying on tape alone. Pack boxes correctly before you tape them shut. Fill empty space to prevent items from shifting and stressing the seams.