Ever peeled off carton tape that snapped, sagged, or slid off? It's not just about sticky glue—it's what is underneath that counts.From BOPP to PET, PE, film backings make all the difference. Each one brings its own toughness, flexibility, or resistance to the table. In this post, we'll break down these three popular materials, show you where they shine, and help you seal smarter.

1. What is Film backing and why is it important in Carton Sealing Tape

Film backing is a crucial component of carton sealing tape, providing essential properties that ensure its performance. It acts as the backbone, holding the adhesive together and giving the tape its strength, flexibility, and durability. The backing ensures that the tape doesn't tear or curl when dispensed and can withstand various environmental conditions such as heat, cold, and humidity.

Different applications demand specific film backings. For e-commerce shipping, BOPP is commonly used due to its affordability, strength, and printability. In industrial packaging, PET and BOPP are preferred for their tear resistance and ability to handle heavy-duty loads. Meanwhile, in the food and beverage industry, PP and PE films are chosen for their cleanliness, flexibility, and moisture resistance, ensuring that the tape remains effective even in cold storage or humid environments. 

Here's a summary of the common film backings used in different application areas:

2. Types of Film Backings Used in Packaging Tapes

Packaging tapes rely on various film backings to meet different needs, with each type offering unique properties tailored to specific applications. 

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) is the industry standard, widely used in warehouses, online shops, and mailrooms. It is strong yet flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective, making it ideal for bulk use. BOPP runs smoothly on taping machines, can be easily printed for branding, and is available in clear, white, or tan options. Its key benefits include high tensile strength, low cost per roll, compatibility with automation, and customizable surfaces for logos and warnings.

Polyester (PET) film backing, on the other hand, is designed for tougher jobs. It is rigid and holds its shape well, even in hot warehouses or when boxes are overstuffed. PET tapes offer superior UV and heat resistance, making them suitable for outdoor use or near windows. However, they are more expensive and less flexible than BOPP. Their features include very high tensile strength, excellent dimensional stability, and superior resistance to UV and heat, though they stretch less and are not ideal for machine sealing.

Polyethylene (PE) film backing is softer and more flexible, making it ideal for applications where gentleness is needed, such as in cold rooms or moisture-heavy environments. PE is water-resistant, smooth, and safe for food contact, but it lacks the rigidity required for heavy loads. It is best used for flexible tape on curved surfaces, food-grade sealing, and moisture-sensitive or cold storage conditions. However, it has lower tensile strength and can deform under pressure.

Here's a summary of the properties and best use cases for each film type:

3. Comparison of BOPP, PET, and PE Film Backings for Carton Tape

When selecting a film backing for carton sealing tape, you are not just choosing strength but also considering chemistry, durability, and performance under various conditions. BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene), PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), and PE (Polyethylene) each offer unique properties that make them suitable for different applications.

BOPP is known for its high tensile strength and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for standard carton sealing and e-commerce. PET, on the other hand, provides superior rigidity and heat resistance, ideal for industrial use and environments with UV exposure. PE stands out for its flexibility and excellent moisture resistance, making it perfect for food packaging and cold or wet environments. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each material can help you make smarter packaging decisions.

Comparison Table: BOPP vs PET vs PE

Each film backing material has its own story—of science, performance, and cost. By understanding the properties of BOPP, PET, and PE, you can choose the right tape for your specific needs.

4. Choosing the Right Film Backing for Your Packaging Needs

Not all packages need the same kind of tape. It depends on weight, weather, and even what's inside. When picking the right film backing for your packaging, there are several key factors to consider.

First, think about the weight of the carton. Lighter boxes can get by with BOPP or PE, which are both cost-effective and flexible. However, for heavy-duty loads, PET is the way to go. It offers more strength and stability, ensuring that the tape won't tear or fail under pressure.

Next, consider the storage and transit conditions. If your packages are staying indoors at room temperature, BOPP is a solid choice. But if they’ll be exposed to heat or UV light, PET is the better option, as it can handle higher temperatures and prolonged sun exposure without degrading. For damp or cold environments, PE is ideal, thanks to its excellent moisture resistance and flexibility in low temperatures.

Environmental concerns are also important. All three film backings—BOPP, PET, and PE—are recyclable, but local facilities may vary in their ability to process them. Some PE and PP films are even available in bio-based versions. However, PET, while durable, is harder to biodegrade, so it's essential to balance its long-term performance with environmental impact.

Finally, think about the shelf life and sealing integrity. For long-term storage, PET is the best choice, as it maintains its adhesion over time, even in warm areas. BOPP is suitable for short- to mid-term shelf life, while PE may soften or deform over longer durations, making it less ideal for extended storage.

Different industries have different needs. In food packaging, BOPP with FDA-approved adhesives is ideal because it's clean, flexible, and moisture-resistant. For pharmaceuticals, PET is preferred due to its heat resistance and long-term durability. E-commerce companies often use standard BOPP because it's low-cost, printable, and machine-friendly. Cold storage facilities benefit from PE, which is flexible, water-resistant, and safe for freezing. Heavy industry, on the other hand, relies on PET or reinforced BOPP for their strong bonds and high mechanical strength.

When in doubt, match the film to the job. This approach not only saves tape but also protects your goods and keeps costs low.

5. Q&A

Q: Can you print on BOPP film tape?

A: Yes, BOPP film has a smooth surface that accepts ink well. It's widely used for custom-printed packaging tape.

Q: Is PET tape stronger than BOPP tape?

A: Yes, PET has higher tensile strength and better heat resistance. It’s ideal for heavy-duty or industrial applications.

Q: Which film is better for cold storage packaging?

A: PE is best for cold storage. It stays flexible in low temperatures and resists moisture well.

Q: Are BOPP tapes recyclable?

A: Yes, BOPP is 100% recyclable. However, recycling availability may vary depending on local facilities.

Q: What is the difference between BOPP and PE film tape?

A: BOPP is stiffer, stronger, and better for machine application. PE is softer, more flexible, and moisture-resistant.

6. Conclusion

Carton sealing tape performance depends on more than just adhesive. The film backing determines strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat or moisture. BOPP is the most commonly used film—strong, affordable, and perfect for automated lines. PET offers superior durability and heat stability for heavy-duty or industrial use. PE stands out in cold or damp environments where flexibility and water resistance matter most. 

Each material has different chemical and physical traits, from tensile strength to recyclability—every factor counts. Choose the film based on carton weight, transit conditions, and end-use requirements. Need help deciding? Contact us to find the right tape for your business.