The benefits of cardboard and corrugated boxes for packaging

Packaging is crucial in ensuring products' safety and integrity during transport and storage. Among the various packaging materials available in India, cardboard and corrugated boxes stand out for their versatility, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. These materials offer excellent protection against damage and are also lightweight, making them ideal for shipping and handling. 

This article will further explore the numerous benefits of packaging using cardboard and corrugated boxes. We’ll discuss the critical differences between these two materials and how they can facilitate smooth deliveries for businesses in India, ultimately enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.

What is a corrugated box and cardboard box?

When choosing packaging materials, it's essential to understand the difference between a cardboard box and a corrugated box and how they serve distinct purposes. 

A cardboard box is a container made from a single layer of thick paper, often called “cardboard In contrast, corrugated boxes consist of three or more layers of linear board, with an inner layer of fluted cardboard sandwiched between two outer layers.

Within these categories, there are different types of boxes to consider. For instance, cardboard boxes can be found in styles like folding cartons, often used for consumer products, and die-cut boxes, which can be customized to specific shapes. On the other hand, corrugated boxes come in several types, including single-phase, single-wall, double-wallboard, and triple-wallboard options.

Both cardboard and corrugated boxes offer a combination of strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, making them suitable solutions for various products and shipping requirements. Their reliability ensures smooth delivery processes, helping businesses effectively meet customer expectations. That is why they are widely used for packaging in India¹.

Difference between corrugated and cardboard boxes

Understanding the difference between a corrugated box and a cardboard box is crucial for selecting the right packaging solution. The main difference is in the materials used for making them, the construction process required for assembly, and the finished product's durability for shipping and storage purposes².

Due to their light-duty construction, cardboard boxes are commonly used for packing lighter items such as clothing. They provide decent protection but may not withstand significant stress or impact. Therefore, small businesses frequently use them as packaging solutions, especially for retail packaging and small shipments. 

On the other hand, corrugated boxes offer superior strength and durability due to their strong composition. They can withstand rough handling during shipping and protect products from damage. As a result, businesses in India use them as a packaging solution for heavier and fragile goods. 

Benefits of cardboard boxes

• Lightweight design: Cardboard boxes are significantly lighter than many other packaging materials, reducing shipping costs and making them easier to handle.
• Cost-effectiveness: Due to their affordability, cardboard boxes offer a budget-friendly packaging solution for businesses, especially when purchased in bulk.
• Versatility: Cardboard boxes can be tailored to fit a wide range of products in various sizes and shapes, making them ideal for numerous applications.
• Protection: While lightweight, cardboard boxes are protected against dust, dirt, and minor impacts, ensuring that items arrive in good condition.

Benefits of corrugated boxes

• Enhanced protection: Corrugated boxes are more robust than standard cardboard, providing a stable cushion for products during shipping and handling. Additionally, they effectively keep moisture and bacteria away, which is especially crucial for packaging food items that require long shipping times.
• Customization: Corrugated packaging can be easily customized to meet specific business needs, allowing for tailored solutions that fit unique requirements.
• Cost-effective: Corrugated boxes are among the most affordable packaging options, requiring low labor costs and minimal manufacturing tools. 
• Great for branding: Custom branding on corrugated boxes enhances company visibility and professionalism. This personal touch can make your packaging design stand out, fostering customer loyalty and encouraging repeat business.
• Sustainable: Made from 70-100% recycled materials, corrugated boxes are eco-friendly and easy to recycle and repurpose, making them a sustainable packaging solution for businesses.
• Lightweight: Their lightweight nature helps reduce shipping costs, making them ideal for transporting heavy products without compromising safety.
• Offer flexibility: Corrugated boxes, available in various sizes and wall configurations (single, double, or triple), can accommodate a wide range of products, making them highly versatile in the packaging market.

Choosing the proper packaging for business success

Both cardboard and corrugated boxes offer unique advantages that cater to the diverse packaging and shipping needs of Indian businesses. While cardboard boxes provide a lightweight and cost-effective solution for everyday items, corrugated boxes offer strength and protection for the delivery of heavier or fragile goods. 

Choosing the right box isn't just about product protection; it directly impacts your bottom line. Shipping costs are often calculated based on dimensional weight (DIM weight), which takes into account the package’s density. Using a larger than necessary box may unnecessarily increase your shipping costs. 

Here’s the formula for calculating DIM weight:
DIM Weight = (Length x Width x Height) / Dimensional Weight Divisor

The dimensional weight divisor varies from carrier to carrier but is typically set at 5,000. So, if you have a box that's 50 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm, your carrier uses a divisor of 5000. Your DIM weight is:

DIM Weight = (50 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm) / 5000

DIM Weight = 60000 cm³ / 5000 = 12 kg

Even if the package's actual weight is less than 12 kg, you'll be charged for 12 kg based on the DIM weight.

By understanding the benefits of cardboard and corrugated boxes and the implications of dimensional weight, businesses in India can make informed choices that enhance efficiency and safeguard their products during the shipping process. Investing in suitable packaging supports operational success and aligns with eco-friendly practices, contributing to a sustainable future.