What Types of Corrugated Boxes are Best for Your Business?
When it comes to corrugated boxes, there are a lot of different options to choose from. It can often be overwhelming to dig through the choices for the optimal solution. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to the different types of corrugated boxes. Below, you’ll learn about the styles of boxes, as well as what flute type would best suit your needs. Whether you’re in e-commerce, manufacturing, or retail, understanding these box types is essential for optimizing your packaging strategy. Let’s dive in.
Common Types of Corrugated Boxes
Corrugated boxes come in various types tailored to specific needs. Among the most common types are the regular slotted container, half-slotted container, full overlap slotted container, die-cut boxes, and telescoping boxes.
Regular Slotted Container (RSC)
RSCs are the most common box style due to their highly efficient design. You will find four flaps on both ends of the structure, each measuring half the width of the box. The outer flaps (typically the lengthwise ones) meet in the center when folded, creating a sturdy and balanced carton. RSCs provide protection as the contents within are completely enclosed. You’ll commonly see RSCs used as shipping boxes because of their streamlined nature.
Half-Slotted Container (HSC)
An HSC is similar to an RSC, however it only features flaps on one end of the structure while the other end remains open. Its flaps, each half the size of the box width, join in the middle when folded and are typically secured with tape or staples. With only one set of flaps, HSCs enable quick access to the contents within the carton.
Full Overlap Slotted Container (FOL)
Unlike RSCs and HSCs where the flaps meet in the middle, FOLs have extended flaps allowing them to completely overlap each other when folded. This overlapping design provides an additional layer of protection on both the top and bottom of the box. Because of their durability, these boxes are commonly used for industrial equipment, machinery, automotive parts, and other heavy-duty applications.
Die-Cut Boxes
Die-cut boxes are a great choice for applications that require more customization. An engineer will design a carton specific to your needs and then a custom cutting die will be used to produce the final box. This process allows for intricate designs and a secure fit for your product, providing a truly tailored packaging solution. Die-cut boxes are perfect for a wide range of products, and are most commonly used for e-commerce and retail packaging.
Telescoping Boxes
A telescoping box consists of two parts: an outer structure that slides over an inner structure, creating a telescoping effect. As these boxes can expand up to three times their size, they’re ideal for large, long, or oddly shaped objects. Some examples include pipes, machinery, and appliances.
Corrugated Box Classifications by Flute Type and Wall Style
There are a range of flute types available, depending on your needs. They range from A to F flute, and we’ve outlined their specific use cases here. But, you’ll also need to select which wall style you’d like — single-face, single-wall, double-wall, or triple-wall.
Single-Face
Single-face corrugated board has one layer of corrugated fluting adhered to a single piece of liner board. While it is a versatile packaging material, it is often used as inner packaging to provide cushioning and to keep your product from moving during shipment.
Single-Wall
Single-wall corrugated board has one layer of corrugated fluting, also referred to as corrugated medium, sandwiched between two liner boards. It offers more protection than single-face material and is the most common choice for shipping boxes, packaging, and displays.
Double-Wall
This kind of packaging has two layers of corrugated fluting/medium between three pieces of liner board. Compared to single-wall, double-wall offers greater strength and durability, making it suitable for heavier items or items that need extra protection during shipping. Most commonly, it’s used to ship appliances, electronics, or large industrial goods.
Triple-Wall
Triple-wall is the most durable kind of packaging material. It has three layers of corrugated fluting/medium between four flat liner boards. Triple-wall offers the highest level of protection during shipping, making it commonly used for industrial equipment, machinery, automotive parts, dump bins, and other heavy-duty applications.
How to Choose the Right Types of Corrugated Boxes for Your Business
As a business professional, you probably don’t have time to spend hours choosing the right types of corrugated boxes. At Jamestown Container, we can match you with the perfect solution. Our helpful team will get to know your needs and recommend the best option based on decades of expertise. We can provide either stock options or fully customized solutions, depending on what you need.
With over six decades of experience, Jamestown Container delivers the best products for your business. As a multi-facility, concept-to-finished-goods corrugated packaging supplier, we’re able to service hundreds of happy customers around the Great Lakes region. We’d be honored to help you, too.
Our business is rooted in exceptional customer service, quality products, and quick turnaround times. In fact, we even maintain an ISO 9001:2015 certification to hold us to the highest standards in manufacturing excellence. Additionally, we offer a range of sustainable materials to lower your carbon footprint and help you attract eco-conscious consumers. From simple brown shipping boxes to colorful retail packaging and displays, our expert team can help you solve any packaging challenge.
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Want to learn more about what we can do for you? Reach out to our team for a no-obligation consultation.