Corrugated Boxes

Burst test (Mullen) measures the pressure needed to puncture the face of the board, rated in pounds per square inch (e.g., 200#). It is the best indicator of resistance to puncture and rough handling. Edge crush test (ECT) measures the force needed to crush the board edge-on, rated in pounds per linear inch (e.g., 32 ECT). It is the primary indicator of stacking strength. For palletized shipments and warehouse stacking, ECT is more relevant. For individual packages subject to rough handling, burst test may be more appropriate. ECT-rated boards typically use less material and cost less than burst-tested equivalents.

For the vast majority of shipping applications, a Regular Slotted Container (RSC) is the best choice. It is the most economical, ships flat for efficient storage, and works with standard packing equipment. Use a Full Overlap (FOL) box for heavy or fragile items that need extra top and bottom protection. Use die-cut mailer boxes for e-commerce and subscription services where the unboxing experience matters. Use telescope boxes for flat items like artwork, mirrors, and electronics.

Measure the length, width, and height of your product (including any packaging, padding, or inserts). Add 1-2 inches to each dimension for cushioning material. Box dimensions are always listed as Length x Width x Height, where the length is the longest opening dimension, the width is the shorter opening dimension, and the height is the dimension perpendicular to the opening. For irregularly shaped items, measure the longest, widest, and tallest points.

Single wall corrugated has one fluted layer between two liner sheets. It is suitable for products up to about 65 lbs and is the standard for most shipping and storage. Double wall has two fluted layers with a liner between them, providing roughly twice the stacking strength and puncture resistance. Use double wall for products over 65 lbs, international shipping, heavy stacking requirements, or when extra protection is needed for fragile items.

Yes. We offer custom printing from simple single-color logos to full CMYK flexographic printing on all box styles. Custom printing requires a minimum order quantity, which varies by complexity: typically 500+ units for single-color and 1,000+ for multi-color. Turnaround for custom print orders is typically 2-4 weeks. We also offer printed tape as a cost-effective alternative for adding branding to plain boxes.

Corrugated board retains approximately 85-95% of its original strength after a single use, assuming it was not exposed to moisture and was not crushed or heavily creased. Our Grade A once-used boxes are thoroughly inspected and are suitable for most shipping applications. However, used boxes are not recommended for heavy stacking (palletized in a warehouse for extended periods), moisture-prone environments, or applications with specific burst/ECT certification requirements.

For stock sizes (new or used), there is no minimum -- you can buy as few as a single bundle (typically 25 boxes). For custom sizes, the minimum order varies: typically 100-250 for standard RSC styles cut from existing tooling, and 500+ for die-cut or custom-printed boxes. Truckload quantities (typically 2,000-10,000 units depending on size) receive the best per-unit pricing.

Store boxes flat (knocked down) in a dry, climate-controlled environment. Keep them off the floor on pallets and covered or wrapped to prevent dust and moisture absorption. Corrugated board absorbs humidity, which significantly reduces its strength. Avoid storing near heat sources, water pipes, or exterior walls where condensation can occur. Properly stored, corrugated boxes maintain their rated strength for 6-12 months.