Frequently asked questions
The dimensions affect not only the appearance and functionality of your cartons, but also the cost of production and shipping. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dimensions for your folding cartons:
Start with the product. Measure the length, width and height of your product and add some extra space for cushioning and protection. This will give you the minimum dimensions for your cartons.
Think about how your cartons will be displayed, stored, or stacked. You may want to choose dimensions that are easy to handle, fit well in standard sizes, and optimize the use of space.
The dimensions of your cartons will affect the number of cartons that can be printed and cut from a single sheet of paperboard. You may want to choose dimensions that minimize the waste and maximize the yield of your paperboard.
Before finalizing your dimensions, it is a good idea to have the vendor create some prototypes and test them with your product. You may find some issues or opportunities to improve your dimensions and make them more suitable for your needs.
There are different types of finishes available for boxes, depending on the look and feel desired. All finishes protect the box from scratches and moisture. Some common types of finishes are:
Varnish: This is a clear ink that creates a thin layer on the wrap of the box giving it a satin look. It can protect the box from scratches and moisture .
Ultraviolet gloss coating: This is a coating that uses UV light to quickly dry. It gives the box a very shiny and smooth appearance, and enhances the colors and details of the print.
Soft-Touch: This finish maintains the color quality of artwork designs while offering a soft-to-the-touch finish on the surface. Soft-touch is particularly popular for luxury packaging.
Matte Lamination: This is a thin film of plastic that is applied to the box. It provides a classic soft, non-reflective surface and has the added bonus of helping protect against scratches, fingerprints, water, stains, and tears.
The caliper of paperboard is the thickness of a single sheet measured in thousandths of an inch. The caliper affects the strength, durability and appearance of the boxes. The choice of caliper depends on the type, size and weight of the products to be packed. Generally, thicker paperboard provides more protection and rigidity, but also increases the cost and weight of the boxes. A common range of calipers for paperboard boxes is from 12 to 24 points (0.012 to 0.024 inches).
If you are not sure which caliper is best for your boxes, you can consult with your vendor who can provide expert advice and samples. Some vendors, like Orbytel, also offer prototyping services, where they can create a mock-up of your box design using different calipers and materials, so you can test and compare them before placing a large order.
If you are looking for a box style that is easy to assemble and secure, you might want to consider the bottom closures of your box. There are three main types of bottom closures: tuck-bottom, snap-bottom, and auto-bottom.
Tuck-bottom boxes have a flap that tucks into the box, creating a simple and elegant closure. They are suitable for lightweight products that do not require a lot of support. They are also easy to open and close, making them ideal for retail packaging.
Snap-bottom boxes have four flaps that snap together, forming a sturdy and more durable closure. They are suitable for heavier products that need more protection.
Auto-bottom boxes have a pre-glued bottom that automatically pops into place when the box is unfolded. They are the easiest and fastest to assemble, saving you time and labor. They are also slightly more expensive so you must weigh the benefits.