Ordering custom paper packaging tape is straightforward once you know the four decisions that drive the quote: the tape type and grade, the width and roll length, the print method and colours, and the quantity. This is a specification and ordering guide so your first order is right.
Key points
- Decide the tape first (self-adhesive kraft or water activated gummed; reinforced or not), then the width, then the print.
- Flexographic print is cheapest for a settled one or two colour logo at volume; digital suits detailed or short-run designs.
- Expect a minimum order, a one-off plate or setup fee for flexo, and roughly two to three weeks from approved artwork.
- Supply vector artwork, work to the printable width, and approve a printed sample if colour matters.
1. Tape type and grade
- Water activated (gummed) kraft: bonds into the carton, tamper-evident, recycles with the box, needs a dispenser. The usual choice for volume carton sealing.
- Reinforced gummed kraft: the above plus fibreglass, for heavy, double-wall and export cartons.
- Self-adhesive kraft: a paper look, applies with a hand gun, no water, but a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
See reinforced vs non-reinforced to pick the grade by carton weight.
2. Width and roll length
Carton sealing widths are 48, 70, 72 and 76 mm. Default to 70 mm for standard cartons; 48 mm for small cartons and mailers; 76 mm for large or double-wall. Roll length runs about 100 to 150 m for carton widths; choose the longest your dispenser accepts to reduce changeovers. See the size guide.
3. Print method and colours
- Flexographic: an engraved plate lays one or two spot colours. Lowest cost per metre at volume; a plate and proof fee per design and colour; a lead time for design changes.
- Digital: printed from a file, unlimited colours and detail, lower minimums, higher per-metre price.
- Coverage: a one-colour logo repeat is cheapest and ages best. Heavy coverage adds ink cost and usually a protective varnish (specify water-based).
The design detail, including the repeat and legibility, is in printed water activated tape.
4. Quantity, lead time and artwork
- Minimum order: custom print is set up per job, so there is a floor, typically a few to several cartons of tape. Estimate your 6 to 12 month usage before ordering.
- Lead time: about two to three weeks from final approved artwork for a first run, less for repeats.
- Artwork: supply vector art (AI, EPS, or PDF with outlined fonts); raster images at 300 dpi at final size. Work in CMYK with a Pantone reference for exact brand colours. Design to the printable width and keep critical elements a few millimetres inside the edges.
- Proof: approve a digital proof, then a physical printed sample on the actual stock if colour or fine detail matters. Record the Pantone references and stock on the approval so reorders match.
Where Carewell fits
Carewell Group runs custom paper packaging tape from artwork setup to delivery across Australia: water activated, reinforced and self-adhesive kraft, flexographic or digital, in water-based inks. Carewell can meet all your packaging needs in one place. Talk to our team and we will work to your required minimum order quantity. Request a quote and samples or call +61 (02) 8760 1491.
Frequently asked questions
What information do you need for a custom paper tape quote?
The tape type and grade, the width and roll length, the print method and number of colours, and the quantity or your estimated usage.
What is the minimum order for custom paper tape?
There is always a minimum because each job is set up individually, typically a few to several cartons of tape. We will work to a quantity that suits your operation.
How long does a custom run take?
About two to three weeks from final approved artwork for a first order, less for repeats.
What artwork format should I supply?
Vector art for logos and text; raster at 300 dpi at final size; CMYK with a Pantone reference for exact colours.
Will the printed tape still be recyclable?
Yes for water activated (gummed) tape printed in water-based inks with no plastic laminate.
Written by Alif Vasaya, digital and content strategy, Carewell Group. Carewell Group is an Australian packaging, food packaging, tape, industrial safety and 3PL supplier serving all of Australia. Last updated 10 September 2026.