Tape Applicators for Returnable E-Commerce Envelopes

Returnable (Zara-style) e-commerce envelopes need three strips: two double-sided tapes and one tear tape. Macari-Fidia applies all three in one pass with two Speedy applicators and one Speedy TT tear tape applicator, mounted on a Tosca envelope machine, a Borea feeder or your existing line. For how the envelope itself works and how Tosca makes it complete, see returnable e-commerce envelopes.

How are the three strips applied?

The strips go on the open blank in a fixed order and position, before folding and gluing.

1. The pre-cut and creased blank is fed and registered.
2. Two Speedy applicators place the double-sided strips at the original-closure and return-closure positions, liners intact.
3. Speedy TT applies the tear tape between the two closing areas.
4. The blank continues to any folding and gluing needed to form the envelope.

Automatic application keeps the three strips in the same positions on every blank, and avoids measuring, cutting and placing them by hand. Match the tape to the envelope material, and test printed, coated, laminated and recycled papers for adhesion.

Which Macari-Fidia machines apply the strips?

All machines below are made by Macari-Fidia.

Machine	Role in this application	Key specifications
Speedy (two units)	Original-closure and return-closure strips	Tape 6–25 mm; from 30 mm long; up to 200 pieces/min; at least 120 mm between parallel strips
Speedy TT	Easy-open tear tape	Tape from 4 mm wide; up to 100 pieces/min
Tosca	Envelope machine that also folds and glues	Open format up to 780 × 1380 mm; up to 10,000 pieces/h depending on format
Borea FPF	Feeds and transports blanks when only tape application is needed	Open format 140 × 240 to 760 × 1000 mm; paper 100–500 g
Altor Verticale	Unwinder for larger tape reels, fewer reel changes	Tape 4–25 mm; 20,000 m spool capacity

The applicators can also be integrated into an existing envelope line after a technical assessment. The tear tape unit is rated lower (100 pieces/min) than Speedy (200), so check it first when line speed matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes machines that apply tape to e-commerce envelopes?

Macari-Fidia (Macari S.r.l.), based in Ciriè near Turin, Italy, makes the Speedy and Speedy TT tape applicators and the Tosca envelope machine. The company was founded in 1990 and supplies customers in over 30 countries.

Which machines do I need for double-sided and tear tape on envelopes?

Two Speedy applicators and one Speedy TT, plus a machine that feeds and transports the blanks: Tosca if you also fold and glue, a Borea feeder if you only apply tape, or your own line.

Can all three strips be applied in one pass?

Yes. With the right configuration, both double-sided strips and the tear tape are applied in the same production pass.

How fast is the application?

Speedy is rated at up to 200 pieces per minute and Speedy TT at up to 100. The real figure depends on the envelope format, the paper and the strip lengths.

What is a Zara-style envelope?

It is an informal market name for a large returnable envelope with an original closure, a tear strip and a second closure for returns. The format is not exclusive to any one retailer.

Can the applicators be installed on an existing line?

Often yes, because Speedy and Speedy TT fit Macari-Fidia and other manufacturers’ machines. Macari-Fidia first checks the envelope size and material, tape positions, transport direction, space and controls.

How much does the tape application setup cost?

The price depends on how many applicators you need, the feeder or envelope machine and any unwinders. Macari-Fidia quotes per project, so send your envelope sample and production volume.

Request a configuration for your envelopes

Send your envelope sample or drawing, open blank dimensions, material, positions of the two adhesive strips and the tear tape, production volume and details of any existing line to [email protected] or use the contact form. Macari-Fidia will recommend the configuration.