A method for data storage tape access ordering is provided. The method receives an order request for accessing a plurality of data segments stored on a data storage tape. Each data segment is defined by segment characteristics. The method identifies a number of data segments within the plurality of data segments in the order request. The method determines an order model based on the number of data segments and the segment characteristics of the plurality of data segments. The method generates an access order for the plurality of data segments based on the order model and retrieves a subset of data segments from the data storage tape based on the access order.