How to Tape a Box for Shipping the Right Way

7 min read

For those wondering how to properly tape a box for shipping, there are a few methods that can be used, depending on the size and weight.

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the basic process.

Determine which side of the box is up. Many boxes will have an arrow or writing to denote this.
Assemble the bottom of the box by folding the two smaller flaps underneath the larger flaps.
Run a piece of tape across the bottom seam. Make it long enough to extend 2-3 inches over each side for extra support and security.
Place the box right-side up and then place the contents inside.
Assemble the top by following the same steps from #2.
Tape the top in the same way as step #3
Run a hand over the tape to help adhere it to the box, and add another layer if necessary.

How to Tape a Big Box for Shipping

Now, let’s say it is a larger box that may need additional support, and you’re wondering how to tape it for shipping.

Don’t worry; there are ways to strengthen it, the first of which is the “H Method.” As the name denotes, the end result will resemble an “H.”

The “H” method will follow steps similar to the above basic method, adding a few extra pieces of tape. Here are the step-by-step instructions, including the additions.

Determine which side of the box is up. Many boxes will have an arrow or writing to denote this.
Assemble the bottom of the box by folding the two smaller flaps underneath the larger flaps.
Run a piece of tape across the bottom seam, making it long enough to extend 2-3 inches over each side for extra support and security. Then, run a piece of tape along the box’s open edges, perpendicular to the center seam.
Place the box right-side up and then place the contents inside.
Assemble the top by following the same steps from #2.
Tape the top in the same way as step #3.
Run a hand over the tape to help adhere it to the box, and add another layer if necessary.

How to Tape a Heavy Box for Shipping

Heavy boxes will require the most reinforcement.

For heavy boxes, you can use the “Snowflake Method,” named after what they resemble when finished. The steps to the Snowflake Method are:

Determine which side of the box is up. Many boxes will have an arrow or writing to denote this.
Assemble the bottom of the box by folding the two smaller flaps underneath the larger flaps.
Create a plus sign across the box by running one piece of tape across the seam and another crossing perpendicular over it.
Then, create an “X” over the plus by running two more pieces of tape from corner to corner.
Place the box right-side up and then place the contents inside.
Assemble the top by following the same steps from #2.
Tape the top in the same way as in step #3-4.
Run a hand over the tape to help adhere it to the box, and add another layer if necessary.

The snowflake method helps to create a more even weight distribution, which is excellent for heavy items.

Image source: Pinterest

What Type of Tape to Use

With all this talk about tape, some may wonder what kind to use.

Contrary to popular belief, duct tape isn’t a great fit for every purpose, and taping boxes is certainly one of these exceptions.

Here is a brief look at some of the best options.

Paper box tape: Paper box tape can be a decent option when considering how to tape a small box for shipping. It features a strong adhesive and is easy to tear open by hand when arriving.
Shipping/Packing tape: As the name implies, shipping/packing tape is really the right tool for the job. It is designed to be strong and features a hot melt adhesive to seal boxes and handle extreme temperatures.

The Value of a Tape Roller

As a quick note, it is a good idea to invest in a shipping tape dispenser to make the job easier. While taping by hand with just a roll is possible, it becomes arduous when packaging a large number of products.

There are two types of packaging tape dispensers.

The first sits on a base like many common scotch tape dispensers. Pieces can be pulled out and cut to the desired length using the serrated lip.

The second type is often the favored device, as it sits on a handle and can be used with one hand. This allows the other hand to hold down the box flaps for taping.

Start Your Ecommerce Store with Ecwid Today

Are you ready to begin your ecommerce journey?

If so, let us help here at Ecwid. Our selling platform is designed to make ecommerce much more streamlined. It can integrate with other online platforms and social media. Additionally, you can view all of your storefronts at a glance from one convenient dashboard.

The best part? You can get started today for free!

Sell online

With Ecwid Ecommerce, you can easily sell anywhere, to anyone — across the internet and around the world.

Get started

Nov 28, 2023

About the author

Max has been working in the ecommerce industry for the last six years helping brands to establish and level-up content marketing and SEO. Despite that, he has experience with entrepreneurship. He is a fiction writer in his free time.