Cardboard vs. Corrugated: Picking the Perfect Custom Box for Your Needs

In packaging, many people interchange the terms cardboard and corrugated. However, both of these are different in terms of material, features, pros & cons. Also, some differences make these boxes different from one another.

If you are still confused about which one to choose for custom-printed packaging needs. Don’t worry, we are going to share with you details of how these boxes are different in terms of quality, material, and features.

Let’s get started to discuss both of these custom-printed boxes in detail.

What are Custom Printed Cardboard Boxes?

A cardboard box is normally made from paperboard and a single layer of heavy-duty paper. These types of boxes can be used for packing lightweight items like cereals, biscuits, and greeting cards. The most useful characteristics of cardboard boxes are:

• Lightweight
• Budget-friendly
• Smooth surface

What are Custom Printed Corrugated Boxes?

Corrugated boxes are made from durable and sturdy corrugated material which consists of corrugated fiberboard and fluted corrugated sheet combined between two linerboards. If you want to pack and ship heavy-duty items, these boxes are one of the best options to go for. Here are some key characteristics:

• Durability
• Versatile
• Better protection

Major Differences

Some major differences make cardboard and corrugated box packaging different from each other:

1. Customization:

If you want to go for a box that comes with unlimited customization options, it is recommended to go for corrugated boxes. You can customize these boxes into different shapes, sizes, and print designs. On the other hand, cardboard boxes are best suitable option for high-quality printed applications.

2. Budget-friendly Option:

Cardboard boxes are a cost-effective option as compared to corrugated boxes. But on the other side, it doesn’t mean that corrugated boxes come with bulkier prices. Corrugated boxes offer better value for money.

3. Sustainability Impact:

If your keen focus is environmental impact, both materials can be easily recycled. But for a better econ-conscious effect, you can go for corrugated boxes as they come with a better sustainable choice.

4. Strength & Durable:

If you want to pack heavier or high-duty items, the corrugated box is one of the best options to go for. Corrugated box provides better durability, strength, and sturdiness as compared to cardboard box packaging. For lightweight items where durability and strength are not the issue, go for cardboard boxes.

Which One to Choose?

Both of these custom-printed boxes are great for packaging but you need to go for one that best fulfills your product packaging needs. If you want to pack lightweight items, choose cardboard boxes.

On the contrary, if you want to pack heavy-weight items that need to be shipped properly without any durability and sturdiness issues, corrugated is one of the best options.

As compare to cardboard, the corrugated box is best for shipping purposes where there are higher chances of damage to the product. To cut a long story short, if you want to go for a cost-effective option and durability is not an issue for you, you can go for the cardboard option.

On the other hand, if you want to pack heavy-duty items and maintain overall strength and durability, the corrugated box is one of the best options. Also, you can go for the corrugated box when you want high-quality printed applications on your packaging box.

Final Words!

Understanding the differences between cardboard and corrugated custom-printed packaging material will help you to make informed packaging decisions.

Cardboard offers a simple and economical option for lightweight items, while corrugated provides superior durability, maintained strength, and printing capabilities for a wider range of products.

Consider your product’s needs, budget, and desired aesthetics to select the ideal custom box that protects your goods and makes a lasting impression on your customers.