Compare
Paper tape vs plastic tape
Both seal cartons, but they differ on recyclability, how they apply, and how tamper-evident the seal is.
Quick answer
Use gummed paper tape for a recyclable, tamper-evident seal on a single-material carton; use plastic tape for fast, low-cost sealing with a standard dispenser.
When to request a quote
Request a quote for branded printed tape or case quantities — we can price paper and plastic options side by side.
What each option is best for
Paper tape
Gummed kraft tape — recyclable, tamper-evident.
Best for: Plastic-free, single-material cartons
- Bonds into the box for a tamper-evident seal
- Recycles with the cardboard (no separation)
- Needs a water-activated dispenser
- One firm strip usually seals the carton
Plastic tape
Polypropylene or vinyl — fast and low-cost.
Best for: High-volume, low-cost sealing
- Cheapest per metre, widely stocked
- Vinyl/solvent grades hold on heavy cartons
- Remove before recycling the cardboard
- Low-noise grades avoid the dispenser screech
Paper tape vs Plastic tape — side by side
Paper tape
Gummed kraft tape — recyclable, tamper-evident.
- Best for
- Plastic-free, single-material cartons
- Recycling
- With the cardboard
- Seal type
- Tamper-evident bond
- Application
- Water-activated dispenser
- Low-noise
- Yes (no screech)
Plastic tape
Polypropylene or vinyl — fast and low-cost.
- Best for
- High-volume, low-cost sealing
- Recycling
- Remove from card first
- Seal type
- Surface adhesive
- Application
- Standard hand dispenser
- Low-noise
- Low-noise grade only
| Paper tape Gummed kraft tape — recyclable, tamper-evident. | Plastic tape Polypropylene or vinyl — fast and low-cost. | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Plastic-free, single-material cartons | High-volume, low-cost sealing |
| Recycling | With the cardboard | Remove from card first |
| Seal type | Tamper-evident bond | Surface adhesive |
| Application | Water-activated dispenser | Standard hand dispenser |
| Low-noise | Yes (no screech) | Low-noise grade only |
| Shop | Paper tape | Plastic tape |
Still deciding between paper tape vs plastic tape?
Tell us what you're packing and your quantities. We'll recommend the right option and price it for your order — sourcing anything beyond our core range through our UK supplier network.
Frequently asked questions
Is paper tape more recyclable than plastic tape?
Is gummed paper tape stronger than standard tape?
Do I need a special dispenser for paper tape?
Related categories & guides
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