When and How Were Packaging Tapes Invented?

Packaging tapes are among the most practical adhesive solutions used in countless areas—from sealing boxes and ensuring cargo safety to storage and transportation.

Today, these tapes appear in virtually every industry, yet their history is surprisingly interesting.

HISTORY

The origins of packaging tapes date back to the 1930s.

At that time, boxes and packages were typically sealed with string and glue, which was both cumbersome and unreliable.

The first packaging tape was a cellulose-based transparent tape developed in 1930 by Richard Drew, an employee at 3M.

However, the true revolution in box sealing came in the 1960s, when pressure-sensitive acrylic adhesive was applied to a polypropylene (BOPP) film.

This innovation led to tapes that were more economical, durable, and suitable for mass production.

HOW ARE THEY PRODUCED?

Modern packaging tapes are produced as follows:

• Carrier film (typically BOPP – biaxially oriented polypropylene)
• A layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive (acrylic, hotmelt, or solvent-based)
• Optional features such as logo printing, color coding, or easy-tear functionality

USAGE AREAS

• Carton sealing and shipment security
• Product packaging and labeling
• Barcode protection and surface bonding
• Warehouse sorting and product classification
• Recyclable packaging systems

At MAS Global, we offer packaging tape solutions that are quiet to unroll, highly adhesive, cold-resistant, and customizable with logos.

CONCLUSION

Packaging tapes are the silent yet indispensable supporters of the logistics and production world.

Choosing the right tape makes a significant difference in product safety and brand prestige.