Quick answer

Focus on tape strength and adhesive quality for secure shipping, then choose a style that adds personality. Decorative tapes like Fred's Special Delivery work well for gifts when they meet your sealing needs.

Why tape strength and adhesive matter

The primary job of packaging tape is to keep your package closed during transit. A weak tape or poor adhesive can lead to damaged goods and unhappy recipients. Look for tape that offers a strong bond to cardboard and resists tearing under tension.

Decorative tapes often have the same adhesive properties as plain tapes, but it's worth checking the product description to ensure it's suitable for shipping. Fred's Special Delivery tapes, for example, are designed to secure packages while adding a fun touch.

Balancing style and function

If you're shipping gifts or sending packages to friends, a decorative tape can turn a plain box into a memorable unboxing experience. The trade-off is that some decorative tapes may be slightly less strong than heavy-duty industrial tapes, so they're best for lightweight to medium-weight packages.

For heavy or bulky items, consider using a strong clear or brown tape for the main seals and adding a decorative tape as an accent strip or for the final closure.

How to choose your packaging tape

  • Check the adhesive strength: For shipping, choose a tape labeled for carton sealing or with a strong acrylic or hot-melt adhesive. Avoid tapes that are only for light crafts or wrapping. If the product page doesn't mention shipping use, assume it's for light-duty only.
  • Consider the tape width and thickness: Standard packaging tape is 2 inches wide. Thinner tapes may tear easily. Thicker tapes (2.5-3 mil) offer better security for heavier boxes.
  • Match the style to the occasion: For gifts, choose a decorative tape like Special Delivery - Sprinkles or Receipt to add personality. For everyday shipping, clear or tan tape is more discreet. You can combine both: use strong clear tape for the main seal and decorative tape as a top layer or accent.

Product facts

  • SPECIAL DELIVERY - SPRINKLES: Special Delivery - Sprinkles tape comes in 5 unique styles including Sprinkles, each sold separately with a built-in dispenser on a full-color, peggable card. The built-in dispenser makes it easy to apply the tape without needing a separate tool, and the colorful design adds instant cheer to any package.

    SPECIAL DELIVERY - SPRINKLES

    SPECIAL DELIVERY - SPRINKLES

  • SPECIAL DELIVERY - RECEIPT: Special Delivery - Receipt tape features a distinctive receipt-style design and also includes a built-in dispenser on a full-color, peggable card. The receipt pattern is a playful choice for gift wrapping or shipping presents, and the dispenser helps you cut and apply the tape smoothly.

    SPECIAL DELIVERY - RECEIPT

    SPECIAL DELIVERY - RECEIPT

Which tape is right for you?

Best for

  • Sending gifts and want the package to look fun and personal
  • Light to medium-weight packages where style matters as much as security
  • Heavy or bulky shipments that require maximum industrial-strength tape
  • Long-term storage where extreme temperature or humidity could affect adhesive