Tamper-evident box-sealing tape deters shipment theft

With the rise of Internet shopping has come an increase in the number of single-box shipments — and along with it comes new security challenges to packagers compared to large shipments. Now, a new tape from 3M is designed to clearly indicate that the security of a package has been breached during shipment.

Scotch Tamper Indicating Tape 3559 helps deter shipment theft by offering tamper evidence. If the tape is peeled back, a security "Alert" message is revealed. The tape cannot be reapplied without the alert message showing. When the tape is pulled off, significant fiber tear from the box may also be evident. If the tape is slit down the center seam, the tape's diagonally banded printing pattern makes exact realignment extremely difficult.

3M's Scotch Tamper Indicating Tape 3559 makes it almost impossible for would-be thieves to reseal the box without detection.

Developed by 3M Packaging Systems Division (St. Paul, MN), Scotch Tamper Indicating Tape 3559 is the first in a family of security tape products that helps deter product theft and provides box tampering prevention while keeping the box closed. The new tape offers sealing strength and deterrent features.

"As the number of single-box shipments increase, companies need signals or warning signs to deter individual shipments from theft," says Steve Schreiner, business manager of Box Sealing Products, 3M Packaging Systems Division. Schreiner notes that theft can occur at any point, from in the plant, during shipment or once a package reaches its final destination.

"Single packages and large shipments to stores offer different security challenges, but both need protective measures to prevent theft," adds Schreiner. "Scotch tamper-indicating box-sealing tape allows manufacturers to protect their products and show that loss-prevention is a high priority to their company."

Tamper-indicating tapes add value in protecting and securing such high-ticket items as computers, software, pharmaceuticals, clothing, jewelry or mail-order items.

Available in six roll sizes, this new box-sealing tape can be applied using either a hand-held dispenser, tabletop or automatic equipment such as the 3M-Matic Case Sealer. A "drop in" solution, the tape product will not slow production lines when applied.

For more information: 3M Packaging Systems Division, Tel: 1-800-253-2163

Edited by Bill Noone
Managing Editor, PackagingNetwork.com