Seeking packing tape recommendations

Scotch brand 3710 and 3750 adhesive tapes work well for the equipment packaging I've done. The 3750 is heavier duty, but the 3710 is great for mid-weight packages. Both come in clear or tan color, usually found in 3-paks.

Office Depot appears to carry the Scotch 3710 in a 6-pak and the Scotch 3750 in 3-pak.

I have found the "Duck" brand to be OK, but the Scotch seems to have a better adhesive and stronger material.
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Hello Drubin,

I've been packing and shipping things pretty much every day since May 1978. Based on experience, I can tell you that worrying a lot about what tape to use is mostly a waste of time. Every type being sold as shipping tape that I know of meets D.O.T. specs. I personally believe that the cross-reinforced asphaltic Kraft paper tape is the strongest.

More important to shipping successfully is making sure that the item(s) is packed properly in the box and that the box is "full", meaning that it is not subject to being crushed under normal handling conditions.

Tape not only the box flap seams, but also tape across the seams at least in one place.

I would recommend using tape that is designed for shipping and is at least 2 inches wide. I currently use Staples part #380107. We use a couple of rolls of this every day.

I've never had a package burst or open at all going all the way back to 1978, but I am careful with packing and taping methods.

I hope that this helps. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or if I can help you on this.

Best wishes.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Products, LLC

Thanks guys. I guess I made much ado about nothing. Always looking for that secret upgrade, you know.

Drubin,

It's not much ado about nothing. Asking questions is the best way to learn.

Best regards.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Products, LLC

Hi Jim,
Given your expertise and experience, is there anything else you can share with us? e.g. Preferred, cost effective shipping for heavy items(say 100 lbs.).

Hi Phaelon,

With freight rates going up and many of the tradional LTL carriers going away, UPS Freight and FedEx Freight are becoming solutions worth a look for heavier items.

We rarely ship anything over 70 pounds in one carton, so I am far from an expert on the current status of that type of shipping. To learn more I would suggest finding and talking to over-the-road carriers and asking specific questions regarding true total costs and lost and damaged policies. Also ask for a list of current customers with contact information that will give a reference.

But as far as what is cost effective right now goes, that probably changes on a weekly basis because of fuel prices. It's a pretty difficult market.

I apologize for not being of more help on that question. Just like choosing which loudspeakers to buy takes time, it is also worthwhile to check out the current shipping environment before choosing a carrier.

Best wishes.

Jim Pendleton
Osage Audio Products, LLC

Have had excellent results with Scotch 3850 Premium Performance clear tape, available from Staples. It's heavy, strong, and sticks well. It costs a bit more than the generic stuff, but what we ship is well worth it.

I'll second Scotch 3850. It does cost more, but it's worth it. Unlike cheap tape, it never spontaneously rips when packing.

Gerry