Finding the perfect box for your products makes all the difference. A custom, correctly sized box can create a satisfying unboxing experience for customers while helping you save money and protect the items inside. Explore how to choose the right shape, size and type of box for your products so you can experience the benefits yourself.
The first step to finding the right box is to determine the measurements and weight of the items you want to ship. Having this information on hand will help you determine what size box you need. If you only have one item, measure its length, width and depth. Add about half an inch to your measurements to allow enough room when the item is placed in the box.
Shipping multiple items in one box? You may want to experiment and try out different layouts. You want the layout to look aesthetically pleasing and be as efficient with the available space as possible. If you’re using void-fill packaging to fill in any gaps or provide extra protection, remember to add a couple inches to your measurements. Once you’ve found the ideal layout, measure the entire group of products to determine the best box size.
Once you have your measurements, it’s time to weigh the items. Most shipping companies provide quotes based on weight, but the weight can also indicate the required strength of the box. Heavier items need thicker cardboard to prevent breakage and keep products safe during shipping. At Custom Boxes Now, we have three different box strengths to choose from — standard, strong and extra strong. Choose one based on your product’s weight and dimensions.
If you’re concerned about breakage or want extra padding for your shipping boxes, we recommend adding corrugated pads to act as shock absorbers. Corrugated pads are also ideal for shipping multiple items in one box, as you can use them as dividers and cushioning between layers and products.
At Custom Boxes Now, we offer various shipping box shapes. Understanding the applications for each type will help you pick the best one for your requirements. Consider the look of the box as well as the product type and size to help inform your choice.
The most traditional option for shipping packaging is the regular slotted container (RSC). With the right packing materials, you can use these boxes to ship almost anything. They have two flaps on either side that generally require tape or glue to seal. While these boxes are durable and easy to stack, you may want to choose a smaller box size to cut down on unnecessary bulk.
The full overlap container or FOL is similar to the RSC, but each flap folds over the other. This type of box is ideal for extra heavy or fragile items because they don’t bend as easily.
One panel folder boxes (OPFs) feature a single panel of corrugated cardboard that you fold to enclose an item. It requires tape to seal and is suitable for small, flat and individual items, like books, stationery and picture frames.
The C-series shipping box is a self-locking box that folds into itself cleanly and securely. This box style is popular with online sellers who want to make a memorable unboxing experience for their customers. They work well for PR packages and subscription boxes as well as gifts, clothes and food items.
A tray and cover box is a bit like a shoebox as it has two parts — a sturdy bottom container and a removable sleeve that slides over it. It’s great for shipping clothing, small tools and food items that need sealing from all angles. Remember that in order to properly put these boxes together, glue or staples are usually required.
If you’re shipping in the short-term and mainly delivering items within the neighborhood — like wine or other products that customers will take right out of the box upon delivery — we suggest using half-slotted containers (HSCs). These are open-top boxes, but you can pair them with a lid to close them up.
Custom Boxes Now can design and manufacture every shipping box option imaginable. Our goal is to help you design eco-friendly, customized boxes that fit your products and enhance the unboxing experience. With over 60 years in the business, we’re confident we can find a shipping box solution that works for you.
Build your own boxes at Custom Boxes Now or contact us and we’ll help you with all your questions.
