Types Of Cardboard Packaging For Your Products & Business

types of cardboard packaging

October 17, 2024 Blogs

Types Of Cardboard Packaging For Your Products

Cardboard is a popular packaging material suitable for products of variable dimensions and various shapes. Printed paper pulp and corrugated sheets are used as the construction materials to make it firm.

It comes in different thicknesses and can come in many different prints and colors. Cardboard packaging is readily recyclable because it is considered biodegradable, making it environmentally friendly. It is also relatively cheaper than other packing materials, like plastic or metal packing material, in the market. Cardboard packaging satisfies high requirements for weight, wear-out resistance, universality, and eco-friendliness.

Which Types of cardboard are used for packaging

There are several types of cardboard, which are as follows:

Corrugated Cardboard 

Corrugated cardboard is largely employed in packaging material worldwide, and it is of high quality and sturdiness. A flute comprises two or more layers of paperboard sandwiched by two layers of fluted corrugated medium. They also influence the strength and stiffness of the cardboard, which forms the flute types. C flutes can be categorized into C, B, A, E, and F flutes and most of them are chosen because of their versatility, particularly the C flutes. Corrugated cardboard has varying thicknesses, and printing can be done using any available printing technology. What makes corrugated cardboard unique is that it is the most recyclable product with little impact on the environment.

Solid Bleached Board (SBB)

There is another kind of cardboard called Solid Bleached Board (SBB); it has high quality, complicated mechanical and high smoothness. This material is created from bleached kraft paper and has a very light blonde-like color. SBB is mostly preferred when packing luxurious goods like body beauty products, electronics and drugs. Packaged in solid bleached board, it is ideal for folder cartons, where it is used in making boxes and any type of sleeves. It is also suitable for converting and labeling due to its glossy surface, which lets one get good-quality printouts of images and letters.

Paperboard

Paperboard is thinner than corrugated cardboard and more flexible than paperboard. It is generally made from one layer or many layers called paper layers. Paperboard comes in several varieties, including bristol, duplex paperboard and triplex. It can be thinner or thicker and used for product accessories, including greeting cards, labels and packaging of smaller products. They are also used in folding cartons and are created from flat papers known as paperboards. Paperboard can be laminated with any material like wax or plastic to become more resistant to water and fat or can be printed easily so paperboard is mostly used in the manufacturing of food boxes such as custom burger boxes and bakery boxes such as custom waffle boxes or donut boxes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cardboard Type

When considering the options for selecting cardboard type, some of the issues to note include the following: First, it is extremely important whether it will be used as a giver or a receiver of information. Depending on the kind of cardboard being used, there are different levels of strength and hardness, which makes it necessary to choose cardboard appropriate to the application. Second, the product’s dimensions and mass must be protected, which are relevant to the decision-making process. Bigger and denser goods need sturdier, thicker cardboard types to ensure they are not pulverized during transportation. Third, Another factor not considered is the appearance of the cardboard, whether it is geared for retail use or not. 

It is often the case that consumers are attracted to the packaging by the looks. Thus, the choice of the cardboard type, which has a rather attractive appearance, will be appropriate. Last but not least, the price of cardboard should also be considered. Various types of cardboard have different prices, however, it is clear that the price depends on the necessary characteristics of the packaging.

How is Cardboard Packaging Recycled?

Cardboard packaging is highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Recycling typically involves sorting the cardboard from other waste materials, flattening it, and baling it. These bales are then transported to recycling facilities. At the facility, the cardboard is shredded and pulped. The pulp is cleaned and deinked to remove contaminants, and then it can be reused to make new cardboard products. Recycling cardboard saves energy, reduces landfill waste, and conserves natural resources.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cardboard

Cardboard packing has many benefits; here are some of them. You may ask, The following are some benefits of cardboard packing: This one is easier to handle and transport, hence being low on the cost compared to the many times it would cost to transport other heavy equipment. 

Cardboard is also easy to degrade and recycle, thus minimizing environmental effects. Third, packaging made from cardboard can be preprinted, and it is possible to create beautiful and informative packaging. But then again, cardboard has some drawbacks, too. It can also exist in a relatively moist environment and become severely affected by water. Cardboard can also be inadequate for very heavy or delicate products.

Use of Single-Face Cardboard

Single-face cardboard is made of an individual layering of corrugated paper. It is not very thick and, therefore, not very strong. That is why single-face cardboard is used in cases where thin and cheap material is needed to manufacture consumer goods. It is used for inserts, dividers, and protective packing materials in packing industries. Single-face cardboard is equally used to pack small and light products since it provides a simple yet robust packaging solution.

Products Suitable for Double-Wall Cardboard

Double-wall cardboard is a very rigid type mainly used for stabilizing heavy and sensitive products. They use it to pack shipping boxes, appliances, and even furniture. The type of material that is perfect for offering protection from physical dangers in transporting and physically moving structures is double-wall cardboard. It is also ideal for those products that need backup or padding.

7 Benefits of Using Recycled Cardboard Packaging

  1. Environmentally friendly
  2. Cost-effective
  3. Strong and durable
  4. Recyclable
  5. Versatile
  6. Customizable
  7. Positive public perception

Steps to Follow While Choosing the Type of Cardboard Packaging

  • Consider the product’s fragility
  • Determine the product’s weight and dimensions
  • Think about the shipping distance and handling
  • Evaluate the aesthetic requirements
  • Consider the budget
  • Assess the environmental impact

Sustainable Alternatives to Cardboard Packaging

Even though cardboard is one of the most sustainable materials, there are other sustainable materials a person can use. Such materials include eco-friendly or biodegradable packaging from cornstarch, compostable packaging from bamboo or sugarcane and recyclable packaging based on fabric reusable bags or returnable containers. Hence, the best alternative will only depend on the type of product to be packaged and the kind of packaging required.

Environmental Benefits of Using Cardboard Packaging

Even though cardboard is one of the most sustainable materials, there are other sustainable materials a person can use. The kind of materials involved include: Sustainability packaging, such as packaging from cornstarch; other forms of packaging material include compostable packaging material from bamboo or sugarcane and packaging material that is recyclable in that it is made from fabric reusable bags or returnable containers. Therefore, the alternative choice will only bear dependence on the kind of product that is to be packed and the kind of packaging desired.

Different Types of Folding Cartons

There are various types of folding cartons used for packaging different products. Some common types include:

  • Straight flute cartons: These cartons have a single flute corrugation, making them suitable for lighter products.
  • Macro flute cartons: These cartons have a larger flute corrugation, providing extra strength for heavier products.
  • Micro flute cartons: These cartons have a smaller flute corrugation, offering a balance of strength and weight.
  • Hinge top cartons: These cartons have a hinged lid, making them easy to open and close.
  • Tray and sleeve cartons: These cartons consist of a tray and a sleeve, providing a secure fit for products.

Industries That Use SBS Custom Cardboard Packaging

SBS (solid bleached sulfate) custom cardboard packaging is widely used across various industries. Some of the major industries include:

  • Food and beverage: Packaging for food products like snacks, cereals, and beverages.
  • Consumer goods: Packaging for products like electronics, toys, and cosmetics.
  • Pharmaceutical: Packaging for medicines, healthcare products, and medical devices.
  • Retail: Packaging for products sold in retail stores, including clothing, accessories, and household items.
  • E-commerce: Packaging for online orders, ensuring product protection during shipping.

Designing Trends in Custom Cardboard Packaging

Custom cardboard packaging has evolved with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Some of the current design trends include:

  • Minimalist designs: Clean and simple designs with minimal text and graphics.
  • Sustainable materials: Using recycled or biodegradable materials to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
  • Personalized packaging: Creating unique designs for specific brands or products.
  • Interactive packaging: Incorporating elements like augmented reality or QR codes to engage consumers.
  • Die-cut designs: Using unique shapes and cuts to make packaging stand out.

Printing Options for Cardboard Packaging

Cardboard packaging comes in a variety of prints which include the following: It has become well known as one of the largest scale printing techniques. There is no graininess and the pictures are very clear while it is quite cheap when it comes to bulk printing. Another method is Flexography printing for short runs and flexible packaging applications. Digital printing has come to be utilized frequently in differentiation in packaging and comparatively small print orders. It is easy to configure for minor adjustments as well as it can be delivered quickly.

Safety Concerns With Recycled Cardboard Packaging

While recycled cardboard is an eco-friendly option, it’s important to consider potential safety concerns. Recycled cardboard may contain contaminants, such as chemicals or bacteria. It’s crucial to source recycled cardboard from reputable suppliers who adhere to quality standards. Additionally, proper cleaning and sanitization of recycled cardboard packaging are essential to ensure safety.

Advantages of Cardboard Boxes for Packaging

In the following paragraphs various benefits that cardboard boxes have as packaging materials shall be discussed. They are also rigid and can effectively shield the products nicely. On the one hand, cardboard is also recyclable, which makes using it much more friendly to the conditions of the natural environment. Also, cardboard packing is easily portable due to its lightweight hence less expensive on shipment. They are also flexible since they can conform to different product shapes and sizes in the market.

Latest Trends in Cardboard Packaging Design

Packing designs especially those made from cardboard, have been changing from one style to another. One of the modern trends is to produce the T-shirts from ecological materials and use the methods of the ecological printing. Simplicity and geometric shapes are also on the rise as well. Also, there is an increasing tendency for developing packaging with individual images and brand logos as well. Interactive packaging using augmented reality and virtual reality is also being tested for use.

Top Challenges of Cardboard Packaging

Despite its advantages, cardboard packaging faces certain challenges. One of the main challenges is moisture resistance. Cardboard can become damaged when exposed to moisture. Another challenge is durability. While cardboard is generally strong, it may not be suitable for heavy or fragile products. Additionally, the cost of cardboard can vary depending on factors such as size, thickness, and printing techniques. To get the best type of cardboard packaging for your products you need to consult or find the best packaging company near you  whose professionals will help you to get the packaging that fits according to your business needs.

FAQs

What is cardboard packaging?

Cardboard packaging means packaging made from cardboard, a material that is made from multiple layers of paper. This material is used for almost all types of products because of strength, versatility and that it is recyclable.

What is the difference between cardboard and paperboard?

Cardboard and paperboard are pretty much alike but cardboard has a sturdier and denser disposition because of layering. Paperboard – On the other hand, has a thin and is usually utilized in production of paper bags and book covers.

Difference between rigid boxes and folding cartons?

In contrast, rigid boxes have more elaborative and firm depth and are used for luxury, prestigious products more frequently. Folding cartons, however, are flat and people collapse them into boxes during shipping or even at the time of sale

How can I choose the right size of cardboard box for my product?

Look at the compartment size in terms of length, width, height, weight and the basic handling criteria of fragility and shipping needed. The lower and upper bounds of each part should be allowed for more space to avoid getting damaged while in transit. Make recommendations from packaging professionals to help in creating the best designs.

How is corrugated cardboard made?

Corrugated cardboard is produced by stacking one fluted sheet between two flat ones. Flutes on the container give strength and also provides soft support making it appropriate for packaging of different products of different sizes and weights.

What are folding cartons?

Folding cartons are boxes that are made from flat material and are then folded and collapsed into their final form. They are mainly used with products that fit into small to medium size packages and there are so many types and designs of them.

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