How to Tape Moving Boxes the Right Way
When you’re packing for a move, taping boxes might seem simple—until a box splits open mid-carry. Proper taping keeps your belongings safe and saves you the headache of unpacking broken items later. But there’s a catch: not all tape works the same, and how you apply it matters.
Of course, if you’re ready to skip the hassle of tape altogether, Briteside Boxes of the Fresno area offers a stress-free alternative. Our sturdy, stackable plastic boxes come with attached lids—no tape required. But if you’re using cardboard boxes, here’s how to keep them secure with the right materials and techniques.
Choose the Right Tape
Not all tape is created equal, and the wrong kind can lead to flimsy boxes and unnecessary stress. For moving boxes, stick with:
Packing tape: A strong, pressure-sensitive tape that sticks well to cardboard.
Avoid masking or duct tape: Masking tape is too weak, and duct tape doesn’t stick to cardboard over time.
A tape dispenser or cutter can also save you time and ensure smooth, even application.
Prep Your Box Properly
Before you start taping, make sure your box is ready to go:
Fold the flaps correctly: Fold the smaller flaps first, then the larger flaps on top.
Check for strength: If your box feels weak or worn, add an extra layer of tape to reinforce it.
Starting with a sturdy foundation makes all the difference.
The H-Tape Method: The Best Way to Secure Your Boxes
The “H-tape” method is the gold standard for securing boxes. It reinforces the box seams and edges, keeping your belongings safe no matter how much you’re carrying.
Here’s how to do it:
Seal the bottom seam: Run a strip of tape along the center seam where the flaps meet. Extend it a few inches up the sides.
Tape the edges: Add two strips of tape along the edges where the flaps meet the box sides, creating an “H” shape.
Reinforce as needed: For heavier boxes, add an extra layer of tape on the bottom seam and edges.
Taping the Top of the Box
Once your box is packed and ready to close, repeat the H-tape method on the top flaps. This ensures the box stays sealed even if it’s carrying heavier items like books or dishes.
Fold the smaller flaps first, then the larger ones.
Tape the center seam and edges to form the “H.”
For heavier boxes, an extra strip of tape across the center adds extra security.
Mistakes to Avoid When Taping Boxes
Taping boxes seems easy, but small mistakes can lead to big problems on moving day. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Skipping the edges: Only taping the center seam leaves the box weak at the sides. Always use the H-tape method.
Using too much tape: Excessive tape wastes time, makes boxes harder to open, and doesn’t add strength.
Ignoring weight limits: No amount of tape can save an overloaded box. Use appropriately sized boxes for heavier items.
A Smarter Way to Pack: Briteside Boxes
While proper taping keeps cardboard boxes secure, Briteside Boxes takes the frustration out of packing altogether. Our durable, eco-friendly plastic boxes come with built-in lids, so you never need tape or worry about boxes collapsing. Plus, they’re delivered straight to your door and picked up when you’re done.
With Briteside Boxes, packing is simple, stress-free, and sustainable—giving you more time to focus on your move.
Ready for an easier way to move? Contact Briteside Boxes today and let us handle the hard part!
