How do you seal cartons? Top features to look for in a Carton Taping Machine

Every package that leaves your warehouse represents your brand - and the way cartons are sealed is just as important as what's inside. A poorly sealed box risks damage, tampering, and costly returns, while a consistent, secure seal ensures your products arrive safely and professionally. That's where carton taping machines come in. 

By automating this critical step, carton taping machines boost speed, cut labour costs, and deliver the consistent modern supply chains demand. Choosing the right machine is about more than just tape - it's about efficiency, reliability, and keeping your packaging line moving. 

What Is Carton Sealing? 

Carton sealing refers to the process of securely closing corrugated cardboard boxes using adhesive tape applied to the top and/or bottom flaps. It is a critical stage in the packaging workflow, as a properly sealed carton safeguards products against damage, tampering, and environmental exposure during storage or transit. 

When performed manually, carton sealing can be time consuming, inconsistent, and physically demanding. To overcome these limitations, many businesses rely on carton sealing machines, which automate the process to deliver faster cycle times, consistent tape application, and improve operator safety. 

How do you seal cartons? 

Cartons can be sealed in several ways, depending on production volumes and operational requirements:

• Manual Sealing - Handheld tape dispensers are the simplest option and suitable for very low operations. While cost effective upfront, they are slow, labour intensive, and prone to inconsistent sealing.
• Semi Automatic Carton Sealers - These machines require an operator to load and position cartons, but the taping heads automatically apply tape. They are well suited to a medium volume packaging lines or growing businesses looking for more consistency without full automation.
• Fully Automatic Carton Sealers - Designed for high speed, high volume operations, these machines feed, size, and seal cartons with minimal operator input. They deliver maximum throughput and efficiency while maintaining uniform sealing quality.                                                                                                      

How does a carton sealer work? 

A carton sealer applied pressure-sensitive tape across the top and/or bottom flaps of a box as it is guided through the machine. Most units use drive belts - positioned either on the sides, top, or bottom - to control carton movements. The taping heads then dispense them, press, and cut the tape cleanly for a secure closure. 

The sealing process typically follows four steps:

1. Carton is loaded (manually or automatically).
2. Machine adjusts to the carton's dimensions (manual or automatic, depending on model).
3. Tape is applied and sealed across the flaps.
4. Sealed carton exists, ready for palletising or shipment.

What is an automatic random carton sealer?

An automatic random carton sealer is engineered to manage cartons of varying sizes without requiring manual readjustments between runs. The machine automatically detects carton dimensions and repositions the taping heads to match the box height and width.

This capability is invaluable for businesses with mixed product lines or variable carton sizes, as it reduces downtime, minimises operator error, and keeps packaging lines running efficiently.

Choosing the Right Carton Taping Machine

Not all carton taping machines are the same. The features and build quality you choose can make a huge difference in daily performance. For example, a semi automatic model like the FCS10U may be perfect for business with uniform carton sizes, while an automatic "random" sealer like the FCS10R or FCS30SDR is better suited for operations handling variety of box sizes throughout the day. 

The right machine will depend on factors such as carton dimensions, throughput requirements, and how well the machine integrates with the rest of your packaging line.

Key Features to Look for in a Carton Taping Machine 

When selecting a carton taping machine, consider the following key features:

• Adjustable - Machines like the FCS30SDR automatically adjust to box dimensions, saving time and reducing manual errors. Ensure the machine you choose can adjust to the width and height of your largest carton size.
• Top and bottom sealing - The FCS10R and FCS30DR apply tape to both the top and bottom of cartons for a stronger, more secure seal. Some machines may be bottom seal only allowing the top of the carton to be filled with void fill and sealed afterwards. Most machines that are both top and bottom seal can be adjusted to be single seal if required.
• Side drive belts vs. top and bottom drive - The FCS50DF features a soft side drive belt for reliable guidance, even with irregular cartons, while other models use top and bottom drive belts for heavier boxes.
• Speed and throughput rate - The FCS60B can work at a rate of 20 metres of tape per minute, keeping up with high volume operations and minimising bottlenecks
• Safety features - Look for safety guards infeed conveyors to minimise safety risks of injury. Machines like the FCS30SDR can include these features to ensure operator protection in fast moving environments.
• Integration with conveyors or automation - The FCS Conveyor Module integrates with any FROMM taping machine, creating a streamlined flow alongside carton erectors and void fill systems. If you are looking to add more automatics features the FCS50SDF includes fully automated box closure (top and bottom flaps).
• Durability and construction quality - All FROMM taping machines are built with heavy duty steel frames, designed for long term reliability under continuous use.
• Sustainability options - The FCG110 gummed tape machine uses water activated paper tape, delivering fully recyclable, tamper evident seals that supports environmental sustainability.                    

Carton Taping Machines: Entry Level vs. Advanced

Entry level machines like the FCS10U  are ideal for businesses sealing uniform cartons at modest volumes. Operators feed the boxes manually, but the machine applies consistent seals every time - a cost effective upgrade from handheld dispensers. 

Advanced machined, such as the FCS50SDF or FCS60B, feature automatic flap closing, higher belt speeds, and seamless integration with conveyors and carton erectors. These are designed for industries like e-commerce, food & beverage, and pharmaceuticals, where throughput is high and carton sizes vary constantly. 

Whether you need a basic semi automatic model or a fully automated random carton sealer, FROMM offers both entry level and advanced machines to suit your business. 

Why Choose FROMM's Carton Taping Machines 

With decades of experience in packaging automation, FROMM Packaging Australia has built a reputation for supplying durable, efficient, and reliable carton taping machines. Our range covers everything from the FCS10U semi automatic model through to advanced options like the FCS50SDF and FCG110, all designed to integrate seamlessly with other FROMM packaging solutions - including carton erectors, void fill machines, strapping systems, and pallet wrappers. 

Get Expert Advice Today 

Not sure which carton taping machine is right for your packaging line? The team at FROMM Packaging Australia can help you choose the best solution for your carton sizes, throughput, and sustainability goals. 

📞 Call us on 1800 940 356 or explore our carton sealing solutions online