Printed Barrier & Packaging Tape is a great brand building tool

We’ve all seen them, on parcels, at construction sites, roadworks, events, crime scenes – anywhere where people’s movements need to be guided or restricted. In other words, they are usually found in highly visible public spaces, which is the exact reason that makes them such an effective promotional tool for many businesses.

Branded packaging tapes, of course, are seen on the parcels that get delivered to us by our suppliers. And, if you find this article of value, on the parcels you send to your customers.

How you can make use of branded tapes in your business

Barrier Tapes
Apart from using them at your own functions or sponsored events, supply a roll or two to others who are organizing general events such as golf days, school athletics or Fun Runs. It doesn’t matter whether you are a sponsor or not, it’s a great way of getting your name across. Let relevant institutions know they can approach you for this when needed.

As a business you can get them custom-designed in the colors, width and material type that you need. Because of their width they can bear your company name, logo, promotional message and your contact details. Just ensure that the there is not too much detail on them, as instant comprehension of your message or brand name is key.

How to get what you need
The internet abounds with suppliers of branded tapes, so it’s a simple task to find one in your area. If you already have a signage company you work with regularly, get them to give you advice – perhaps they can manufacture it themselves. In some cases there are regulatory specifications to be complied with, but this should not affect the commercial use you have in mind.

A good supplier will be able to advise you on suitable widths and material, as well as the best type to suite your needs. They should also be able to help with the design and the right color combinations for what you have in mind.

Make sure you see a proof of the design before giving the go-ahead. Preparing a proof should take no longer than a day or two, and once you have approved the artwork you could have the finished product within tw0 weeks.

Some tips

Barrier tapes are made of strong and durable material like vinyl, polyethylene, polypropylene, woven cotton or woven plastic, and usually come in widths ranging from 50 to 150mm. You might be able to specify a custom length. Vinyl is the most popular because of its good printability properties, such as handling bright colors. You can even inquire about reflective tape as well as mirror tapes, glitter tapes, prismatic tapes – even holographic tapes.

Use text colors that contrast with the background color.

The barrier tape has to attract attention, so it’s best to use colors and patterns that stand out among its surroundings. A pattern of alternating red and white, or black and yellow, is widely used as standard. Plain white and yellow are other typical colors. The plain-colored barrier tapes are particularly suited for printing.

Most tapes are supplied as rolls.

With so many options available to you, you can ensure that whatever message you have in mind can help you stand out from the crowd.

Packaging Tapes

We are all familiar with the FRAGILE or HANDLE WITH CARE carton tapes, but a branded tape goes beyond such basic instructions. These are used when a product has to be packed into cartons which are sealed prior to delivery or shipment, effectively accompanying and identifying your package and spreading awareness of your brand wherever it goes. They can contain your logo and basic contact details, and even some form of advertising.

Not only can your company and products be seen by anyone along its journey, it also makes a good impression on the final customer who receives the parcel.

What type to choose

As with barrier tapes, make sure that the tape material as well as the printing is of high quality, else it can count against what you are trying to achieve with its use. Just consider how many types of cartons there are: lightweight, heavyweight, plain or corrugated, single-wall or multi-wall, and you’ll appreciate that it’s essential the right kind of tape and adhesive strength are selected. There are different widths available and the material can be paper, vinyl, PVC, polypropylene or a blend of materials. Then there are factors such as the distance the package will be transported as well as, temperature ranges that might affect the choice of tape and adhesive. The trick is that you must select a tape to suit the kind of packages you will be shipping, and in this regard you will have to seek the (hopefully expert) guidance of your chosen supplier. In some instances you will require more than one type and size tape.

You also have the choice of transparent tapes or ones in a variety of colors

As with barrier tapes, do your homework online to get an idea of what you should consider and what type of costs you might be in for.

Give-away Packaging Tapes
Another use of packaging tapes is as a corporate gift. It is a practical item which anyone can use, and when you go this route also consider branding the inside of the container roll. This area normally contains the supplier’s details, so just get them to replace this with your own.

Conclusion
So there you have it, another promotional tool we either completely overlook or underestimate in terms of brand building.