A carrier tape includes a longitudinally extending central portion having pockets formed therein. Each pocket respectively comprises a plurality of sidewalls and a bottom. First and second side portions are disposed adjacent to opposite sides of the central portion and extend longitudinally therewith. Each of the first and second side portions includes a respective adhesion zone that is spaced apart from the central portion. Discontinuous raised features disposed between and contacting adjacent pockets. The raised features each respectively extend between the first and second side portions and include a transverse raised platform terminated at opposite ends by first and second longitudinal ribs that are integrally formed with the raised platform. Adjacent pairs of adjacent raised features are separated from one another by first and second collinear transverse channels. A carrier tape assembly included the carrier tape, a cover film, and electronic components disposed in the pockets of the carrier tape.
