Staples® Standard-Grade Packaging Tape, Clear, 1.89" x 54.7 yds, 36 Rolls

Fine for shipping, but not for storage

I have used this tape to package boxes and envelopes for shipping for over 2 years now. It is the cheapest tape I can find. I recommend only using it in a tape gun/...Read complete review

I have used this tape to package boxes and envelopes for shipping for over 2 years now. It is the cheapest tape I can find. I recommend only using it in a tape gun/dispenser because if you just use the roll, it's REALLY difficult to find the end of the the tape because of how thin it is and it is VERY clear. On the bright side, the transparency is GREAT because for scan-able shipping labels, you can tape right over the UPC/barcode (which will protect it from rain, etc.) This tape is surprisingly STRONG for as thin as it is. I've never had any trouble with a seam not holding because of lack of strength. It will hold a truck (so long as you cross-tape/reinforce your seams).

I don't recommend using this tape for sealing storage containers or anything that will be exposed to any type of moisture or great changes in temperature. I've noticed that the adhesion quality is GREATLY reduced over longer periods of time (i.e. more than 1-2 weeks) or when exposed to even slight amounts of humidity or extreme heat (i.e. 90 degrees or more). So if you are mailing stuff to/from Florida or someplace hot and humid, this tape maybe isn't the greatest for you. And even then, so long as you make sure and press it down REALLY FIRMLY, it still usually holds up OKAY. When in doubt, double tape it. The stuff is CHEAP ENOUGH you can afford to use twice as much of it just in case.

Basically, if you're looking for the cheapest shipping tape around, this stuff will do the job. It holds up pretty well long enough for your package to get to your customer safely, and that's what counts, right?

Most of all, make sure you PRESS DOWN each and EVERY length of tape WELL, because if you don't IT WILL NOT ADHERE PROPERLY. Also, it's a good idea to DOUBLE TAPE load-bearing seams on boxes -- especially if you're shipping heavy or fragile items.

If you have a high volume of items to ship out, this tape might not be the best for you because it can be time consuming to press down each strip of tape and make sure it adheres properly. On the other hand, the money you save by buying this tape might make the extra aggravation worth it. Since I am a VERY small business, I can afford to take the time to do things right. So long as you double tape some seams and check your boxes, this tape will serve you just fine. If you're more interested in how FAST you can seal up a box, then maybe a different tape will suit you better.

I hope this helps!