Paperboard is one of the packaging materials used in various industries for product packaging. For many centuries, paperboard has been a staple for different products.
It is a thick and more durable material than regular paper. Paperboard usually starts at 0.30mm, 0.012 in, or 12 points. This material is manufactured with wood-based fibers, recycled paper, or a combination of both. Paperboard packaging helps keep your product safe during shipments and increases brand visibility.
History Of Paperboard
Paperboard holds great significance in the history of packaging. While paper itself has a long history dating back to ancient China, it was in 1817 that paperboard made its mark in the packaging industry. The very first paperboard carton was produced in England. In 1860, folding cartons started to emerge and were shipped flat to save space. They gained popularity quickly due to their easy production, simple assembly, and durability.
Let’s discuss the paperboard in detail!
Types of Paperboard
There are four major types of paperboard material you can choose from, each with its unique characteristics.
Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS):
Solid Bleached Sulfate, also known as SBS, is a premium-grade paperboard material. It has a clay-coated surface that lets artwork be printed in high-quality and vibrant colors. SBS paperboard can be used for various industries, including:
- Food Products
- Tobacco Products
- Medicines/Pharmaceuticals
- Meat Packaging
- Cosmetic and Skincare Products
- Bakery Items
Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK):
Unlike SBS, CUK is made from unbleached virgin kraft wood fiber, which imparts a natural brown color. This material is composed of southern pine species categorized under softwood, with some hardwood fibers used in the top ply. The top ply of CUK is clay-coated to create a smooth printing surface. Coated Unbleached Kraft often gets used for:
- Beverages & soda containers
- Retail packaging for hardware products and detergents.
Coated Recycled Paperboard:
Just like its name states, this paperboard is made from recycled fiber materials. The top surface of this material contains white fibers with a clay coating to improve printing quality. This type of material is perfect for products like:
- Soaps & Detergents
- Bakery Products
- Tissue & Napkins
- Food Items
Non-Bending Chipboard:
This type of paperboard is made from recycled newsprint and old corrugated paper. It creates a thick paperboard grade that is used as body stock for rigid boxes. This chipboard gives a sturdy and durable rigid structure to set-up boxes that do not fold or break down when shipping. You can decorate and print it with the help of specialty wrapping paper. You can use this packaging material to create packaging for products like:
- Luxury goods
- Premium Cosmetic Line
- Confections
- Jewels
- Electronics
To understand better, you can also read our guide on what is rigid stock.
Types of Paperboard Packaging
Paperboard packaging can be found in various types for catering to different product needs. Some of the most popular paperboard packaging are mentioned below:
1. Folding Cartons
It is a type of paperboard packaging that folds flat for shipping and storage purposes. Folding cartons are made from sturdy paperboard with a thickness level of 16pt., 18pt., 24pt, and 36pt. However, these boxes are not as sturdy as rigid boxes, but they can be customized with inner flutes between the paperboard for extra protection and cushioning.
Hence, these boxes are weightless and take little space, and the shipping cost is minimal, making folding cartons an economical option.
2. Rigid Boxes
More sturdier and bigger packaging options compared to folding cartons. Rigid boxes generally come with a thickness level of 36pt. to 120pt. Generally, these boxes can not fold flat like cartons do. They are made of non-bending chipboard that comes with a specialty wrapping paper that allows printing on them. Custom rigid boxes can be found in various box styles, such as two-piece, collapsible, magnetic closure, drawer box, and more.
Advantages of Paperboard Packaging
Packaging made of paperboard comes with many benefits, such as:
- Customization: Paperboard boxes are easy to customize without compromising quality. From custom dimensions and shapes to finishing and add-on options, these boxes can be customized easily. These boxes can adhere to high-quality printing with vibrant colors.
- Retail Friendly: One of the main benefits of having paperboard boxes is that they are great for retail. These premium boxes help in capturing customers’ attention.
- Cost-Effective: Paperboard packaging is cheaper and more affordable compared to other materials like plastic or metal. Moreover, their light weight helps minimize the shipping and storage costs.
Final Thoughts
Paperboard is a cost-effective material used in manufacturing various types of packaging, such as folding cartons and rigid boxes. There are endless printing and finishing options that can be done on paperboard packaging. Lastly, paperboard packaging is a cost-effective option for your business to present and ship products effectively.
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