Cardboard boxes are everywhere. From food in pantries to kids’ toys, just about every product you use is likely to come in a cardboard box. There’s a good reason for it: these boxes are lightweight and versatile, with lots of creative options for design.
Households love them because they can easily be reused; companies love them because they’re affordable and durable. If you’re looking for an innovative way to package your product, look no further than paperboard boxes.
The many creative options for paperboard boxes
So, you’ve decided to go with cardboard for your product packaging. Great choice! Let’s look at some of the design options available:
Inserts
“Inserts” are smaller pieces of paperboard that are folded or glued inside the package to secure any loose items that can bounce around during shipment. This is a useful feature for shipping fragile items.
Custom cutouts
Want to show off the contents in the store without potential customers having to open, and possibly damage, the packaging? Custom cutouts remove part of the paperboard for that purpose. They can be made into any shape you like!
Thumb tabs
If your product is heavy, cutouts in the main panel can make the package easier to carry (think packages of soft beverages with built-in handles). These cutouts can also make boxes easier to open without needing box cutters.
Practical design options for paperboard boxes
When it comes to design options, it’s important to consider the material used. Not all paperboard boxes are the same. Choose from:
Solid-bleached sulphate (SBS)
This material is a medium-density board made from bleached chemical pulp, with a coating to protect the surface. The white color makes it great for printing a custom label. Because it has no taste or smell, it’s ideal for edible products and is fully recyclable.
Clay coated news back
Made from a blend of recycled newsprint and other containers, this material is less rigid than solid-bleached sulphate. One side is glossy and coated, while the other tends to be gray or brown.
Natural kraft or coated unbleached kraft
Also made completely from recycled materials, this material is safe for food due to its coating with polyethylene resin. Strong and resistant to tears, it’s perfect for heavier products, such as beverages.
Cost considerations
There are many creative options available but at various price ranges. Naturally, you’ll want to choose something that can work with your company’s budget. At the same time, you don’t want to cut too many corners, or have your packaging feel inferior (which can cause some customers to wonder about the quality of the product inside). Sometimes, it pays to spend a bit more.
You may also want to consider if you are going to use digital or offset printing. Offset printing is a popular choice for larger bulk orders and digital is best for short runs or prototypes.
Finally, make sure your packaging is practical for your product. An intricate package is nice, but if it’s hard to get a product in there during an assembly line, that additional time spent is costing you money.
Paperboard boxes and more in South Florida
If you’re looking for ways to package your products, look no further than Ritter’s Printing & Packaging. From folding cartons to custom printing services, we are your best resource for packaging and labeling in South Florida. Call us at 954-771-7204 to learn more.
