We see corrugated boxes almost everywhere, yet we do not realize it. They transport groceries, safeguard electronics, store medicines, and move complete houses. These boxes can do all the hard work, whether it is small online orders or heavy industrial shipments. Businesses trust them since they are robust, lightweight, cheap, and user-friendly in terms of customization. They have customers who trust them since their products are received safely and are clean.
Packaging evolved in a big way through the years; however, corrugated boxes have remained at the heart of the pack. They are flexible to new demands such as the development of e-commerce, expedited delivery, and environmentally friendly demands.
A lot of brands currently collaborate with suppliers of corrugated packaging boxes wholesale to achieve high volumes without compromising the quality. Others look for a corrugated box manufacturer near me to get quick service and local support.
In this blog, we explain what corrugated boxes are, how they are built, the different types available, and how various industries use them every day.
What Are Corrugated Boxes?
The boxes that are used to package the products are known as corrugated boxes. They are made of corrugated fiberboard. It is a powerful and padding substance that is stratified. The corrugated boxes, unlike the flat cardboard, have a wavy lining on the interior to absorb the shock and pressure.
Corrugated cardboard shipping boxes will be used to mail, store, and transport items. They are meant to secure goods when handling, piling up, and transporting. Because of this design, corrugated packaging boxes supplier companies can offer boxes that handle both light and heavy loads.
Corrugated boxes come in many shapes and sizes. From a small 7x7x7 corrugated kraft shipping box to large industrial containers, they can be tailored to almost any product.
Structure of Corrugated Boxes
- Linerboard
When you notice the custom printed corrugated boxes or custom-made corrugated boxes, the design is printed on the linerboard. Linerboard may be virgin paper, recycled paper, or a combination of both. The reason why Kraft linerboard is so common is that it is very strong and it possesses a natural brown appearance. This is what makes Kraft corrugated boxes popular among the brands that require a simple and eco-friendly touch.
- Fluting Medium
The fluting medium is the wavy paper layer placed between linerboards. It is the strength of the box. The flutes create air pockets that help cushion products and resist crushing. Different flute sizes offer different benefits. Choosing the right flute depends on weight, stacking needs, and shipping distance.
Common Flute Types And Their Characteristics
A knowledge of the different types of flutes in the corrugated box designs assists the companies in selecting the appropriate packaging.
- A flute
A flute is thick and strong. It is very cushioning and stacking. It is commonly applied to delicate or weighty goods.
- B flute
B flute is not as thick as A flute, and at the same time is strong. It is suitable for canned products and objects that require high puncture resistance.
- C flute
The C flute is the most widespread one. C flute is used in many corrugated cardboard shipping boxes.
- E flute
The flute is thin and smooth. It is ideal for retail packaging and printing. It is often used in custom corrugated mailer boxes.
- F flute
The F flute is very thin and compact. It is used for small boxes where space and appearance matter.
Types of Corrugated Boxes
- Single-wall corrugated boxes
These boxes have one layer of fluting between two linerboards. They are the most common type and work well for most shipping needs.
- Double-wall corrugated boxes
The double-wall corrugated cardboard boxes used are of three layers with linerboard and fluting on all three layers of the corrugated cardboard. They are utilized in heavy and long-distance consignments.
- Triple-wall corrugated boxes
These boxes are built for extreme strength. They replace wooden crates in many industrial uses.
- Regular slotted containers (RSC)
The common shipping boxes are known as RSC boxes. The size of all the flaps is identical, and their reunion in the middle is when closed.
- Half-slotted container (HSC)
HSC boxes are similar to RSC but have flaps on only one side. They are often used with lids.
- Die-cut corrugated boxes
These boxes are custom-shaped using a die. They are great for retail displays and unique products.
- Telescopic corrugated boxes
These boxes have a separate top and bottom that slide over each other. They allow for adjustable height.
- Folding corrugated cartons
These cartons fold flat for storage and assemble easily. They are often used for food and retail items.
Uses of Corrugated Boxes by Industry
There are some outstanding uses of corrugated boxes.
|
Industry |
Common Uses |
|---|---|
|
E-commerce and retail packaging |
Shipping products, subscription boxes, returns |
|
Packaging of Food and beverage |
Produce boxes, bakery packaging, beverage carriers |
|
Packaging of Electronics and appliance |
Laptops, TV, and home appliances |
|
Packaging of Healthcare and Pharmaceutical |
Medicine cartons, medical supplies |
|
Logistic and Shipping software |
Bulk transport, warehousing |
|
Packaging of Industrial and Automotive |
Machine parts, tools |
|
Agriculture packaging |
Fresh produce, seeds |
|
Military/Army |
Equipment transport, supply storage |
Corrugated packaging box manufacturers design boxes to meet strict industry needs. For example, military packaging focuses on durability, while food packaging focuses on safety and cleanliness.
How These Durable Boxes Are Used?
- Protection
Corrugated boxes protect items from impact, vibration, and pressure. The flutes act as shock absorbers.
- Branding
With custom printed corrugated boxes, brands can share their story. Logos, colors, and messages help build trust.
- Customization
Companies have the option of size, shape, and print. Moisture resistance is also required in the case of Custom corrugated plastic boxes.
- Sustainability
Corrugated boxes are recycled and usually recycled. This supports green goals.
Benefits of Using Corrugated Boxes
- Protection
The layered structure keeps products safe during shipping.
- Lightweight Strength
Corrugated boxes are light but strong, and this reduces shipping expenses.
- Cost-Effective
They are cheap to manufacture and simple to expand.
- Eco-Friendly
The corrugated cardboard has also been among the most recycled materials, according to statistics of its industry provided by the various packaging research groups, which have indicated that in the United States, over 90 percent of the corrugated cardboard has been recovered and is to be recycled.
- Versatile & Customizable
There are endless choices between the staples, corrugated shipping boxes, and a luxury mailer.
- Operational Efficiency
Boxes ship flat and store easily.
- Resilience
They are quite good at stacking, handling, and transit.
Corrugated Boxes vs Other Packaging Materials
- Corrugated Boxes Vs Rigid Boxes
Corrugated boxes are the sensible, honest friend that will never miss a moment you need them. They are flexible, powerful, and manageable. They can be stacked, moved, and delivered without breaking the bank. Rigid boxes, however, are the posh friend, the one that you meet during special occasions. They are very good looking, they are high quality, but they are even heavier and more expensive. Corrugated boxes are victorious in the case of day-to-day shipping and storage.
- Corrugated Boxes And Plastic Packaging
Plastic boxes are tough. They are able to be wet, durable, and occasionally more presentable. Yet they are not very environmentally friendly. They are difficult to recycle,e and they find their way to the landfills without proper disposal. The environmentally friendly one is corrugated boxes. They can be recycled, biodegraded, and usually made of recycled paper. And they are good protection without damaging the environment, which is a win-win situation.
- Corrugated Box Or Paperboard Carton
Light stuff is okay in paperboard cartons, such as to pack a few snacks or a small gadget. However, when you are transporting something heavy, or you are stacking boxes in a warehouse, they will not cut. With that wavy layer inside the corrugated, which is the flutes, corrugated boxes are far more sturdy since the flutes absorb shocks and ensure products are secure. In the case of the shipping of delicate or heavier goods, it is apparent that corrugated is the best option.
- Corrugated Board And Cardboard
The first trick to be mentioned is as follows: cardboard is not cardboard. Layers used in corrugated board have a fluted middle between the flat boards, making it more durable. Standard cardboard is smooth and is able to bend or tear. Corrugated board is therefore smarter in case you want your items to make it through shipping.
How to Choose the Right Corrugated Box
- Box strength and load requirements
A tiny 7x7x7 corrugated kraft shipping box is perfect for a few small items. But if you’re sending heavy electronics or multiple products, go for double or triple-walled boxes. Matching the box strength to your product weight is key to keeping things safe.
- Considerations of the product size and weight.
The boxes are not supposed to be too large or too small. Excessive space, and your products will roll around. Squeezy, and they might be crushed. Individual and custom corrugated mailer boxes or personalized corrugated boxes are ideal whenever you desire that tight fit every time.
- Distance and method of shipping
A one-wall box may do, should your box be on a short trip down the street. However, when it is going long distances or changing hands many times, then a box with more strength is preferred. Double wall corrugated cardboard boxes are ideal when travelling long distances and when subjected to extreme handling.
- Branding and printing needs
Should you desire your packaging to narrate the story about your brand, make sure that your box can do so. Custom printed corrugated boxes enable one to print the logo, instructions or any other design on the box.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Corrugated Boxes
- Overloading
There is a temptation to stuff in as many as possible, but excessive weight will squash the box. Even strong boxes have limits, so always check the specs before packing.
- Wrong Box Size
The wrong box is frustrating and expensive. Too big wastes material and space. Too small risks cause damage. Always measure your items and pick the right size.
- Using Weak or Old Boxes
Recycling boxes is good, but old boxes can lose strength. If a box looks worn or soft, don’t risk it; use a fresh one.
- Poor Sealing
An unsealed box may open during transit, and no one would want that. Tape all edges and seams well. Imagine it is shaking the box.
- Ignoring Material Strength
All the corrugated boxes are not identical. Always remember to check the box you select against the weight of your product and your product destination.
- Moisture Exposure
Water is a corrugated box’s worst enemy. Wetness may make the flutes weak and destroy the shape. Boxes should be kept dry, or corrugated plastic boxes may be used in case of moisture.
Future of Corrugated Packaging
Corrugated packaging has a brighter future. Due to the development of online shopping, smart packaging is becoming more in demand. More brands want sustainable options and better designs. Corrugated packaging boxes supplier networks are investing in better materials, digital printing, and smart tracking features.
Innovation is also happening in lightweight designs that use less material but maintain strength. This helps both cost and the environment.
Conclusion
Corrugated boxes are available in numerous designs, ranging from single-wall to triple-wall, standard shipping boxes, to custom-designed mailers. They serve almost every industry and protect products of all sizes.
They are still the best option since they offer a balance between strength, cost, and sustainability. Corrugated boxes provide stable solutions regardless of the business (small or big) or the company of Blackline Packaging. Corrugated boxes are still demonstrating their worth daily to both businesses and consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
We've answered all the common questions you may have before ordering a custom box.
What is a non-corrugated box?
The flutes are absent, and the box is made of flat paperboard.
How to tell if a box is corrugated?
Look at the edge. You will see wavy layers inside.
What are the disadvantages of corrugated boxes?
Neither are they impregnated so that they may be resisted by the moisture, without being covered.
What is another name for a corrugated box?
It has even been termed a corrugated carton.
Why is corrugated cardboard not allowed in hospitals?
Unless closed, it can contain dust and germs.
Do cardboard boxes attract mice?
They can if food residue is present.
How long does corrugated cardboard last?
It may take years under the condition of being dry and clean.
Are corrugated boxes good for moving?
The time taken may be years, provided it is dry and clean.
Are corrugated boxes recyclable?
Of course, they could be recycled by the majority of them.
What industries use corrugated packaging the most?
It is violently applied in the e-business, food, medical, and logistics industries.
