---
title: How to Seal a Package with Water-Activated Tape
description: Better Packages provides a step-by-step guide to sealing a package using water-activated tape.
image: https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png
---

[800.474.8273](tel:+1800.474.8273)  |  [Distributors Login](https://www.betterpackages.com/distributors-only/)  |  [Distributors Locator](https://www.betterpackages.com/distributors/)  |  [Shop Account](https://www.betterpackages.com/my-account/)  |  [Cart](https://www.betterpackages.com/cart/)  |  [Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

[![Better Packages, Inc.](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/1601908/hubfs/social-suggested-images/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Inkjet Systems](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#inkjet-systems)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)
    - [Carton Sealing Machines](https://www.betterpackages.com/products#carton-sealing-machines)
    - [Need Help Finding a Model?](https://www.betterpackages.com/find-a-model/)
- [Parts & Service](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-and-service/) 
    - [Buy Better Pack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts)
    - [Buy Interpack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/part-category/interpack/)
    - [Parts Drawings and Operator Manuals](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-drawings-and-operator-manuals/)
    - [Set-up, Operation, and Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-videos/)
    - [Preventive Maintenance Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/preventive-maintenance/)
    - [Service and Repair Request](https://www.betterpackages.com/service-repair/)
    - [Troubleshooting Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/water-activated-tape-dispenser-troubleshooting/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
- [Industries](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [Automotive Aftermarket Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [B2B E-Commerce](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Beauty and Cosmetics](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Electronics and Computers](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [Home Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Jewelry](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [Luxury Goods](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sporting Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/sporting-goods/)
- [Resources](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [Who We Are](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Safety Matters](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Is Your Business Using The Right Packaging Tape?](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Carton Sealing Options](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [SGS Tape Tests and Studies](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
- [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

[![Better Packages, Inc.](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/1601908/hubfs/social-suggested-images/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Inkjet Systems](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#inkjet-systems)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)
    - [Carton Sealing Machines](https://www.betterpackages.com/products#carton-sealing-machines)
    - [Need Help Finding a Model?](https://www.betterpackages.com/find-a-model/)
- [Parts & Service](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-and-service/) 
    - [Buy Better Pack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts)
    - [Buy Interpack Parts Online](https://www.betterpackages.com/part-category/interpack/)
    - [Parts Drawings and Operator Manuals](https://www.betterpackages.com/parts-drawings-and-operator-manuals/)
    - [Set-up, Operation, and Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-videos/)
    - [Preventive Maintenance Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/preventive-maintenance/)
    - [Service and Repair Request](https://www.betterpackages.com/service-repair/)
    - [Troubleshooting Tips](https://www.betterpackages.com/water-activated-tape-dispenser-troubleshooting/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
    - [Warranty Registration](https://www.betterpackages.com/warranty-information/)
- [Industries](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [Automotive Aftermarket Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [B2B E-Commerce](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Beauty and Cosmetics](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Electronics and Computers](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [Home Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Jewelry](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [Luxury Goods](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sporting Goods](https://www.betterpackages.com/sporting-goods/)
- [Resources](https://www.betterpackages.com/industries/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/automotive-aftermarket-parts/)
    - [Who We Are](https://www.betterpackages.com/ecommerce-packaging/)
    - [Safety Matters](https://www.betterpackages.com/beauty-and-cosmetics/)
    - [Is Your Business Using The Right Packaging Tape?](https://www.betterpackages.com/electronics-and-computers/)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/home-goods/)
    - [Carton Sealing Options](https://www.betterpackages.com/jewelry/)
    - [SGS Tape Tests and Studies](https://www.behttps://www.betterpackages.com/luxury-goods/tterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
- [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

 Distributors Login  Distributors Locator  Shop Account  Cart  Contact Us

- Categories
- Follow Us

[Subscribe](https://learn.betterpackages.com/subscribe)

- [Automotive](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/automotive)
- [Better Packages](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/better-packages)
- [Corrugated Cartons](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/corrugated-cartons)
- [E-Commerce](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/e-commerce)
- [Fine Jewelry](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/fine-jewelry)
- [Furniture](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/furniture)
- [Maintenance](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/maintenance)
- [Packing & Shipping Tips](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/packing-shipping-tips)
- [Pharmaceuticals](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/pharmaceuticals)
- [Sporting Goods](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/sporting-goods)
- [Tape Dispensers](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/tape-dispensers)
- [Water-Activated Tape](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/water-activated-tape)

- <https://twitter.com/WATisbest>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-packages-inc-/>

[View All Posts](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)

[Subscribe](https://learn.betterpackages.com/subscribe)

[Tape Dispensers](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/tape-dispensers) | [Water Activated Tape](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/topic/water-activated-tape)

# How to Seal a Package with Water-Activated Tape

 By: [Better Packages](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/author/better-packages) on September 27th, 2018

 Print/Save as PDF

- Share:
- <https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape>
- <https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=How+to+Seal+a+Package+with+Water-Activated+Tape&url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&via=>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&title=How+to+Seal+a+Package+with+Water-Activated+Tape&summary=Better+Packages+provides+a+step-by-step+guide+to+sealing+a+package+using+water-activated+tape.>
- <https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&media=https://39499362.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39499362/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png&description=Better+Packages+provides+a+step-by-step+guide+to+sealing+a+package+using+water-activated+tape.>
- [mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape](mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape)

#### ![how to seal a package with water-activated tape](https://blog.betterpackages.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png?width=711&name=The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png)

#### Water-activated tape (WAT) provides significant carton-sealing advantages. Also known as gummed tape, Kraft tape, paper tape, or reinforced gummed tape (when fiberglass is embedded), WAT provides a [strong, tamper-evident seal](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/are-you-confident-you-have-the-right-packing-tape) that keeps cartons [securely closed](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/how-does-water-activated-tape-work) both during shipping and while in storage.

WAT also delivers a clean, professional look and can even be printed with your logo or other graphics to help [increase brand awareness](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/4-powerful-benefits-of-branded-water-activated-tape). What’s more, sealing with WAT using an electric, water-activated tape dispenser, has been shown by independent testing to be [21 percent more efficient](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/sgs-independent-study) than sealing with pressure-sensitive plastic tape.

What’s the key to capitalizing on all these benefits to [improve your company’s profit margin](https://www.inc.com/david-finkel/5-simple-ways-to-improve-your-profit-margins.html)? Knowing how to seal a package with WAT. While it’s a straightforward process, there are some proven tips that can help you maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your packaging operations.

> “Sealing with WAT has been shown by independent testing to be 21 percent more efficient than sealing with pressure-sensitive plastic tape.” [TWEET THIS](https://ctt.ac/Y8x5F)

**Sealing Packages with WAT: A Proven Step-by-Step Approach**

After you’ve outfitted your packaging station with a water-activated tape dispenser such as an electric model in the [UL-listed](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/caution-is-your-water-activated-tape-dispenser-ul-listed) [Better Pack 555](https://www.betterpackages.com/models.cfm?categoryID=3) series, and [water-activated tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-landing-page.cfm), follow these steps for the most effective sealing of your packages:

1. Properly load the tape in the dispenser by setting the WAT roll in place, pulling the leading edge over the rear guide, feeding it through front guide, and closing the lid.
2. Check that there’s adequate water in the water tank and then dispense a six-inch tape test strip by pressing the “6” button to ensure that the adhesive is being fully wetted.
3. Choose the amount of tape you need by first measuring the length of the opening to be sealed and adding 3” on either side that you’ll need for an overlap.  So,  if the opening is 12 inches long, add 6” equaling 18”.  Find the number on the dispenser that corresponds to your requirement and press the “18” button, if it is an electric, or pull the lever if it’s a manual.  The extra 3 inches on either side insures an effective seal.
4. Dispense your tape and choose a sealing method:
5. The Pinch Method - One strip is “pinched” onto one carton flap and then pressed onto the other when the two are brought together.
6. The H Seal Method - The Pinch Method but with a short perpendicular strip at each end forming an “H” shape.
7. The Full Seal Method - The Pinch Method but with a perpendicular strip at each end that extends slightly past the corner of the carton and is folded down.
8. Your box is sealed and ready for handling.

---

*Watch our informative video to see these carton sealing steps in action!*

<iframe style="margin: 0px; float: none;" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" xml="lang" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JaJSKrVVW2g?rel=0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

---

**Switching to Water-Activated Tape is Easy**

From ordering your WAT and water-activated tape dispensers to following the simple steps above, upgrading your packing procedures is simple. And once you do, the improvements are immediate. Your team will be more efficient, your packages will hold up better to the rigors of shipping, the risk of “press and grab” thefts will be reduced, and your shipping cartons can serve as mobile advertisements for your brand.

Plus, adopting WAT for many packaging tasks doesn’t mean your pressure-sensitive plastic tape and tape guns will go to waste. There are still plenty of tasks where plastic tape is the perfect choice. You simply need to look at the characteristics of the two types and [select the tape that is appropriate](https://inbound.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-tape-for-your-needs) in a given scenario.

If you have questions about our water-activated tape and water-activated tape dispensers, and how they can improve your package sealing operations, please [contact us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact-us.cfm) at your convenience.

---

- <https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape>
- <https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=How+to+Seal+a+Package+with+Water-Activated+Tape&url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&via=>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&title=How+to+Seal+a+Package+with+Water-Activated+Tape&summary=Better+Packages+provides+a+step-by-step+guide+to+sealing+a+package+using+water-activated+tape.>
- <https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape&media=https://39499362.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39499362/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png&description=Better+Packages+provides+a+step-by-step+guide+to+sealing+a+package+using+water-activated+tape.>
- [mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape](mailto:?body=https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape)

[![logo](https://blog.betterpackages.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Template%20Items/logo.png?width=256&height=96&name=logo.png)](https://www.betterpackages.com/)

#### Contact Customer Service

[Phone 800.474.8273](tel:800.474.8273) [Email info@betterpackages.com](tel:info@betterpackages.com) [mailto:](mailto:) [mailto:](mailto:)

[Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

- [Solutions](https://www.betterpackages.com/solutions/) 
    - [Increase Packaging Productivity](https://www.betterpackages.com/increase-packaging-productivity/)
    - [Tamper Evident Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/tamper-evident-packaging/)
    - [Brand Your Packages](https://www.betterpackages.com/brand-your-packages/)
    - [Improve Warehouse Packer Safety](https://www.betterpackages.com/improve-warehouse-packer-safety/)
    - [Reduce Packaging Waste](https://www.betterpackages.com/reduce-packaging-waste/)
    - [Endure Environmental Extremes](https://www.betterpackages.com/endure-environmental-extremes/)
    - [Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/curby-sustainable-packaging/)

- [Products](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/) 
    - [Curby® Sustainable Packaging](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/curby-sustainable-packaging/)
    - [Manual Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#manual-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Electric Water-Activated Tape Dispensers](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#electric-water-activated-tape-dispensers)
    - [Water-Activated Tape](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#water-activated-tape)
    - [Parts](https://www.betterpackages.com/products/#parts)

- [Learn](https://www.betterpackages.com/learn-landing/) 
    - [About](https://www.betterpackages.com/about)
    - [FAQs](https://www.betterpackages.com/frequently-asked-questions/)
    - [Maintenance Videos](https://www.betterpackages.com/tape-dispenser-maintenance-videos/)
    - [Blog](https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog)
    - [Contact Us](https://www.betterpackages.com/contact/)

 © 2026 Better Packages All rights reserved.  | [Terms & Conditions](https://www.betterpackages.com/terms)  | [Privacy Policy](https://www.itape.com/privacy-policy/)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Better Packages",
    "url" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/author/better-packages"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2023-08-17T14:22:31.397Z",
  "datePublished" : "2018-09-27T04:00:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "How to Seal a Package with Water-Activated Tape",
  "image" : [ "https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20pinch%20method-1-2.png" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/blog/how-to-seal-a-package-with-water-activated-tape",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://blog.betterpackages.com/hubfs/logo.png"
    },
    "name" : "IPG"
  }
}
```