Estimate my move

Packing Tape Calculator

Estimate whole tape rolls from a sample carton, seam length and a waste allowance, and see the unused length left by whole-roll purchases.

MoveDayPlan Editorial Updated

Your move

Range: 0–10,000 boxes

Range: 0–1,000 ft/box

Range: 0–100 %

Range: 0.1–10,000 ft

Reset

Choose inputs that match your quote or inventory

Seal a representative empty carton using the tape and seam pattern you intend to use, then measure the total length consumed. Include the bottom, top, overlap and any reinforcement in the sample. The default 12 ft per carton is an editorial example. A 55 yd roll contains 165 ft; substitute the actual product length.

Required tape = ceil(boxes) × measured ft per box × (1 + allowance%); rolls = ceil(required tape ÷ usable roll ft)

Worked scenario — replace these assumptions

Conditional example inputs, October 22, 2026
Input assumptionExample value
Cartons to seal; fractions round up 40 boxes
Measured tape use per carton 12 ft/box
Tape allowance for overlap and waste 10 %
Usable tape length per roll 165 ft
Results from the displayed formula; money is USD
Calculated resultExample output
Whole rolls to obtain 4 rolls
Tape required including allowance 528 ft
Tape in whole rolls 660 ft
Calculated unused length 132 ft

Limits and rounding

Measure a sample sealed carton; ft per box includes all top/bottom strips. Default roll 165 ft = 55 yd; the 12 ft consumption and 10% reserve are editorial inputs. A roll count is an estimate, not a strength guarantee. Whole carton and roll counts round up separately.

Does a calculated roll count guarantee strong cartons?

No. Tape length does not assess carton condition, adhesive compatibility, weight or the way a box will be handled. Use the carton and tape makers’ instructions, and do not use more tape to disguise a damaged box.

Are the default prices or quantities verified for my move?

No. They illustrate the calculation. Replace them with your written quote, measured inventory and applicable terms. Save the input values with your planning worksheet so another person can reproduce the result.

Apply this calculation

Sources checked October 22, 2026. Provider specifications apply only to the equipment described. Model defaults and allowances are planning assumptions, not measured inventory or market prices.

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