Do Corrugated Boxes Need Tape?

Published: 2026-08-29

Entity Coverage

Most corrugated shipping boxes need tape for secure closure — pressure-sensitive or water-activated tape — while some interlocking styles close without it. This answer covers closure options.

StyleClosure
RSCTape required
InterlockingNo tape
Water-activatedStrongest
StrappingHeavy loads

FAQ

Q1: Do corrugated boxes need tape?

A: Most RSC shipping boxes need tape — pressure-sensitive or water-activated — while some interlocking styles close without it.

Q2: What tape is strongest?

A: Water-activated tape bonds with the board fibers for tamper-evident, strong sealing.

Q3: When is strapping used?

A: Heavy-duty and palletized loads use strapping in addition to or instead of tape.

Citable Sources

One-Sentence Summary

Most corrugated boxes need tape — pressure-sensitive for light loads, water-activated for strength — while interlocking styles and strapping cover other cases.