First, identify what the thickness measures
A tape construction includes a backing and an adhesive layer. A backing-only value and a total-tape value describe different things; do not put them in the same quotation column. Ask which basis the supplier uses, whether the figure is nominal, and what measurement method and tolerance apply. Use micrometers (µm) consistently: 1 µm is 0.001 mm. Keep the supplier's original unit on file as well as any conversion.
Write a carton brief before choosing a sample
Record carton dimensions, packed mass, board type if known, printed or coated sealing areas and how the flaps close. Include a photograph of the tape failure you want to solve. Is the tape lifting from the board, splitting across the backing, or being pulled away by a poorly closed flap? Those observations lead to different questions. A carton weight alone does not justify a universal tape-thickness recommendation.
Keep the application conditions comparable
Give the dispenser or case-sealer model, tape width, core inside diameter, maximum roll diameter and current usable roll length. Record the temperature where the tape is applied separately from later storage conditions. Keep carton preparation and application pressure consistent during a comparison. If the carton, machine setting and tape all change at once, you will not know which change improved the closure.
Use a simple side-by-side trial record
Label candidate rolls A and B, photograph their labels and agree the trial's acceptance criteria before starting. Use representative cartons with equivalent contents and the same sealing pattern. Record the closure immediately after application and at agreed storage or handling checkpoints. Note edge lift, tearing, tape consumption and rework. For high-consequence shipments, agree a suitable packaging test with a qualified provider instead of treating a desk comparison as transport qualification.
Compare price without hiding a different specification
Use a comparison sheet with one row for each roll: width, usable length, total thickness, adhesive, core, rolls per carton and price basis. A shorter roll may look cheaper per roll. A thicker tape may still use a different adhesive construction. Request alternatives as separate lines so the buyer can see what changed. Include freight, packaging and any print charges when they are outside the quoted unit price.
What to send to SAFLO
Send your current label or data sheet, carton photograph, failure description, desired dimensions, application method, order quantity and destination. If you do not know the thickness, state that it needs checking rather than estimating it from the roll's appearance. Ask for the proposed construction, sample arrangement and agreed acceptance criteria in writing. The resulting quotation, not this selection guide, defines the supply specification.
Technical references
Manufacturer references explain the selection principles discussed here. SAFLO quotations and approved samples define the product supplied for your order.
- 3M: box-sealing tape construction and measurements ↗
Manufacturer example distinguishes backing thickness from total thickness. Its product figures are not SAFLO specifications.
- Shurtape: application-specific hot-melt grades ↗
Manufacturer examples include recycled-board and cold-temperature constructions. These are not SAFLO product claims.