There are many different types of boxes and terms used to describe them in the packaging industry, which can confuse many people. There are many different packaging for various purposes, such as folding cartons, rigid boxes, corrugated cardboard boxes, and ,paperboard boxes more.
However, there are 3 common types of boxes in the packaging industry, and all of them are made of paper pulp, with different thicknesses.
3 Common Types of Boxes
As mentioned above, there are a lot of boxes in the packaging industry, but the most common are these three:
- Folding Cartons
- Corrugated Boxes
- Rigid Boxes
1. Folding Cartons
Folding cartons are also known as paperboard boxes and paperboard cartons. Think of this box as a traditional cardboard box. Mostly, these boxes get used in retail businesses for various products, especially food items like cereal and toys.
Paperboard material is cost-effective, but also a bit flimsy. Meaning this can only store light-weight products. Plus these boxes can be cut into various styles and shapes, such as tuck ends, sleeves, and more. It is a recyclable material offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.
Please note that paperboard comes in various thickness levels, from 14 pt. to 24 pt., for storing different products.
2. Corrugated Boxes
Corrugated boxes are the workhorses of the packaging world. They’re constructed from a special type of cardboard with a unique wavy layer (called fluting) sandwiched between two smooth outer layers known as liner boards. There are different flutes available that vary in the thickness of your corrugated cardboard, and those are given below:
| Flute | Millimeters | Inches |
| A Flute | 5 | 1/4 |
| B Flute | 3 | 1/8 (0.125) |
| C Flute | 4 | 11/64 |
| D Flute | 2 | (.085) |
| E Flute | 1.5 | 1/16 (0.625) |
| F Flute | 0.6 | 1/32 |
The most common flutes that are used in manufacturing corrugated boxes are either E-Flute 1/16” or B-Flute 1/8″.You can also read a blog with a complete guide on corrugated flutes and their specifications.
This design gives corrugated boxes incredible strength and durability, creating a protective cushion for the items inside.
Businesses and individuals rely on corrugated boxes for shipping, moving, and storing all sorts of things.
From fragile glassware to heavy appliances, these boxes keep their contents safe during transport, even on bumpy roads or long journeys. They’re the go-to choice when you need packaging that can withstand the rigors of handling and protect your valuables.
3. Rigid Boxes
Rigid box packaging (also known as set-up boxes) offers exceptional strength and stability. Unlike folding cartons, they won’t collapse, making them perfect for high-end products or heavy items that need extra protection. Their premium look and feel boost the perceived value of your products. Some examples of the example for rigid boxes are given below:
- Apple’s Packaging or iPhone Box
- Gift Boxes
- Jewelry Boxes, and more.
To sum it all up:
Among custom packaging manufacturers, three common types of boxes stand out: folding cartons, corrugated boxes, and rigid boxes. Each box has a feature that sets it apart from the others. Based on its construction and material thickness, each type serves specific needs, ensuring safe transportation and enhancing product presentation.
