Resources for Corrugated Boxes

A Guide to Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated boxes are made from corrugated fiberboard, a material that consists of a fluted sheet sandwiched between two flat pieces of cardboard. The distinguishing quality of corrugated boxes that separates them from standard cardboard boxes is its strength and durability. As an ideal packing material, corrugated boxes are used by many companies to ship and deliver goods to customers worldwide.

Components of Corrugated Boxes

Flute:
The flute is the type of corrugation that is placed between the flat pieces of cardboard. The different types of flutes are designated as “A”, “B”, “C”, “E”, and “F” flutes. Each flute style differs based on the flutes per linear foot and thickness. The type of flute will have an effect on the stacking strength and durability of the corrugated box. 

Cardboard Wall:
The cardboard wall, or the corrugated cardboard that comprise the sides of a box, have two components. The flute layer is placed between two flat pieces of cardboard to comprise the wall. For varying degrees of strength, the customer can choose a box with single wall, double wall, or even triple wall corrugated cardboard. Generally, additional walls within a structure will lend to strength and the increased capacity to carry heavy items.

Stacking Strength:
One of the reasons why corrugated boxes use its particular design because of its stacking strength and crush resistance. In order to increase the strength of a box, manufacturers should utilize different designs, grade of cardboard and flute type.

How to Choose Corrugated Boxes

Many packaging manufacturers design corrugated boxes, specifically based on the needs of the company.  For companies that are purchasing corrugated boxes, there are a number of tips to keep in mind. A number of different factors will have an effect on the type of corrugated box chosen. Corrugated boxes can be designed to suit the needs of the shipping environment, protected against shock, rough treatment and other forms of impact.  Another factor is whether the corrugated box will be stacked with others and how the product will be transported. According to these factors, the manufacturer will create a corrugated box with the appropriate strength, style and components that can handle the stresses of the environment.

Depending on the product shipped, the packaging manufacturer can choose from a variety of different corrugated box styles. The most common type of corrugated box is the regular slotted container, an all-purpose box capable of holding a variety of items. For specialty products, corrugated boxes can come in a number of styles such as telescope boxes, pillar boxes and bulk boxes. Manufacturers can also ship boxes that are designed for displaying products and storing fruit. By considering the needs of the product, the style of the corrugated box can facilitate the shipping process.