Seeking packing tape recommendations


I aspire to pack the used gear I ship as well as or better than the original manufacture. I'm not happy with the quality of packing tape I can get at Office Depot and whatnot, even their so-called "heavy duty" flavors. It seems flimsy to me. There's a whole world of packing tapes out there (and specialty websites for just that), but I'd prefer not to buy 36 rolls at a time. But if I do have to buy that much to get the good stuff, I want to make sure I'm getting the =really good= stuff (for my application -- I'm not trying to pack a submarine, after all). If there are any packing tape connoisseurs out there, what do like and where do you get it?
Ag insider logo xs@2xdrubin
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