Industry Insights

Choosing the right corrugated box matters. Learn how to pick the perfect box for your business whether it’s for fresh produce or heavy industrial equipment parts.

Corrugated cardboard boxes—those ubiquitous brown containers in our storerooms and warehouses—might seem simple. But when it comes to choosing the right corrugated box, there’s more to consider than size and shape. The perfect box becomes an essential element in your supply chain, protecting your products, optimizing storage space, and even influencing customer perception.

 

So, how do you navigate the plethora of corrugated options and select the ideal box for your specific business needs? Let’s unpack the key factors to consider how Buckeye Corrugated, Inc., a leading corrugated box manufacturer, helps businesses with the right packaging product.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR NEEDS: THE FOUNDATION FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT CORRUGATED BOX 

 

Before considering box specifications, begin by analyzing your products. Here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Product Weight and Dimensions:Will you be shipping delicate glassware or heavy machinery parts? Knowing the exact weight and dimensions of your product is crucial.
• Stacking Requirements:Will the boxes be stacked high in a warehouse? To avoid box failure, consider the stacking strength and overall weight capacity.
• Environmental Considerations:Are you shipping internationally or storing products in humid environments? Moisture resistance might be a critical factor.
• Branding and Presentation:Are you shipping directly to consumers? If so, consider the branding and visual appeal of the box, especially for ecommerce applications.

 

BEYOND SIZE: DECODING THE VOCABULARY OF CORRUGATED BOXES

Now that you understand your needs, let’s decipher the technical aspects of corrugated boxes:

• Corrugated Flute Type:The wavy layer inside the cardboard provides strength. Flute types (A, B, C, etc.) indicate thickness and impact resistance. For heavier products, a thicker flute (like C-flute) is recommended.
• Edge Crush Test (ECT):This rating measures a box’s ability to withstand vertical compression. Higher ECT ratings indicate increased stacking strength.
• Board Weight:This refers to the paperboard’s weight per square foot. Thicker boards offer greater structural integrity for heavier products.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOX FOR DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS

•  Industrial Products and Heavy Machinery:For bulky or heavy items like machine parts, prioritize strong corrugated cardboard with a high ECT rating and a double-wall construction for maximum protection. Opt for a pallet-sized box for efficient shipping and handling.
•  Fragile Items and Consumer Goods:For delicate products like glassware or electronics, a single-wall box with a cushioning interior like bubble wrap or custom inserts is ideal. Consider including clear labeling for fragile items to ensure proper handling during shipping.
•  Food and Perishables:For products like fruits or baked goods, moisture resistance becomes crucial. Look for boxes with a wax coating or laminate to prevent moisture damage. Ventilation holes might also be necessary for proper airflow.

FINDING THE PERFECT PARTNER: WHY BCI PACKAGING IS YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP

 

At BCI, we understand that choosing the right corrugated box is more than just picking a container. It’s about finding a partner that understands your specific needs and provides tailored solutions that optimize your supply chain.

 

We offer a wide range of corrugated box options, from standard sizes to custom designs, with various flute types, board weights, and printing capabilities. Our team of experts can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose the perfect box for every application.

 

When you choose the right partner for your products’ packaging, you get a team that understands how to optimize the intrinsic strengths of corrugated and how to make your packing work harder, whether it’s industrial applications or retail. Contact BCI today, and let’s create the ideal corrugated box solution for your products.