The Difference Between Hot Melt, Acrylic, and Solvent Adhesives
Hot melt, acrylic, or solvent? Which adhesive makes your tape stick best.
The three adhesive types
Quick answer
Hot melt for standard shipping on new cardboard. Acrylic for recycled/coated boxes and long-term storage. Solvent for difficult surfaces. Hot melt is the industry default: strong instant bond at the lowest cost. Acrylic is better on recycled board and in UV-exposed environments. Solvent provides the strongest adhesion on any surface but costs more. Test on your actual boxes before committing.
Performance comparison
Bonds immediately on application. Weakens above 40C.
Initial tack is lower but final bond is very strong. UV-resistant.
Works on surfaces where hot melt and acrylic struggle.
It struggles in hot environments and on some recycled board surfaces.
Tape types: PP vs PVC or application guide.
Matching to your needs
Custom tape with the right adhesive
Hot melt, acrylic, and natural rubber options from ProcuraPack.
Browse custom tapeFrequently asked questions
Hot melt is the industry default for most packaging tape.
Acrylic, which bonds well to recycled board surfaces.
Acrylic and solvent. Hot melt weakens above 40C.
Only if other adhesives fail on your specific surfaces.
Yes, always test adhesive performance on your actual box material.
Part of our guide
Product Guide: Custom Tape
Expert guides on custom printed packaging tape for branding, security, and professional presentation.
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