Running out of tape mid-pack is a hassle you can avoid. Enter your box count, box size mix, and taping method for a quick estimate of how much tape — and how many rolls — to have on hand.
The math behind the estimate is intentionally simple, so you can check it yourself:
That last step matters: tape is only sold in full rolls, so the calculator always rounds the roll count up, never down or to the nearest whole number. If the math works out to just over a whole number of rolls — say 2.2 — you still need to buy 3 whole rolls, because a partial roll isn't something you can purchase on its own. You may end up with some tape left over on that last roll, and that's expected.
Say you're packing 40 boxes with a mixed batch of sizes, using standard taping, and your rolls are 165 feet each (a common 55-yard roll).
Even though 140 feet is less than a single 165-foot roll, you'd still only need to buy 1 roll — you'll just have some left over. Swap in your own box count, mix, and method above to get a number that matches your move.
This estimate assumes fresh boxes taped at a normal, careful pace. Reused boxes often need extra tape to cover worn or torn seams, and boxes with heavier contents may need reinforcement across the bottom that goes beyond a standard seal. How carefully — and how generously — each person tapes their seams also varies quite a bit in practice, so treat this as a planning figure rather than an exact count. Roll length is another variable: brands package tape in different lengths, so always check the length printed on your own roll rather than assuming a standard figure, and adjust the roll length field above to match.
With standard taping (just the top and bottom seams), figure roughly 2.5 feet for a small box, 3.5 feet for a medium box or a mixed batch, and 4.5 feet for a large box. Heavy-duty H-taping adds reinforcement strips beyond the basic seams, so it uses about 50% more tape per box than standard taping.
It's a good idea. Boxes loaded with books, dishes, or other dense items put a lot of stress on the bottom seam, and a box that splits open mid-move can damage its contents or hurt someone. Heavy-duty (H-taping) reinforces the bottom with extra strips beyond the basic seams, which is worth the small amount of additional tape for anything on the heavier side.
It varies by brand and package size, but a common option is a 55-yard roll, which works out to about 165 feet. Some rolls run shorter or longer than that, so check the length printed on your specific roll's packaging and enter that number for the most accurate estimate.
No. This calculator only estimates the tape used to seal box seams. It doesn't cover tape used to bundle cords, secure furniture blankets, or reinforce packing paper around fragile items. If you're also estimating cushioning material for fragile items, pair this with the Packing Paper Calculator.
Once your boxes are taped up, figure out how much cushioning you'll need for fragile items with the Packing Paper Calculator.
Not sure how many boxes you're taping in the first place? Start with the Moving Box Calculator for a personalized box count, then come back here to estimate your tape.