Types of corrugated board – which one to choose and why?

Cardboard is undoubtedly a key material in packaging. Not only because of its practical properties and wide applicability, but it is also a way of packaging with respect for nature. Using paper instead of plastic is nowadays the most popular way to pack more environmentally friendly. And that’s why the popularity of this packaging material is increasing on the market. What are the choices of paperboard and its usability? And which type of cardboard to choose for transporting goods?

Choosing the right board thickness is key

Product protection during transport or storage depends on the choice of carton thickness. The more fragile or heavier the product, the more protection it needs and therefore the thicker the packaging. The packaging industry offers several options for carton layering. Paperboard is composed of flat, corrugated and other flat paper. It can be assembled from several layers. The more grooves, the stronger and more durable the paperboard. This is then called three-layer or five-layer cardboard.

Three-layer cardboard is the thinnest thickness of cardboard. It is ideal for packaging lightweight products that are not sensitive to shocks during transport and storage. It is suitable, for example, for shipping clothes. This single-groove board is generally sufficient for small orders delivered in low-risk shipping conditions. It is also suitable for low value items.

Will thicker cardboard replace good cushioning material?

A padding material is used to secure the product in the packaging, limiting the impact on the inside. It is also used to separate different items so that they do not rub or bump into each other. The groove of the carton is used to fill the gap in the packaging. It prevents impacts on the outside of the packaging that could damage the packaging itself and the products inside.

Thefive-layer double-groovedcarton is 50% stronger than single-grooved cartons. It is ideal for protecting fragile products or products whose weight does not allow the use of three-layer board. It can withstand weights of up to 40 kg and is therefore used, for example, for packaging books, decorative items, small household appliances, crockery and so on.

When to choose reinforced five-layer board?

Double-groove reinforced board is 50% more durable, thicker and contains a barrier against shock and the risk of perforation. It contains a shock absorber to protect the contents of the box in the event of an impact and can withstand loads of up to 70kg. It is resistant to breakage, moisture, temperature changes and vertical compression and is therefore recommended for the export of semi-heavy loads in difficult transport conditions.

Seven-layer corrugated board

Despite its light weight, triple-groove seven-layer corrugated board is 30% stronger than double-groove reinforced board. It is the strongest and most protective type, allowing the contents of the box to be protected in the event of a collision. This type of board can withstand very heavy loads (up to 500 kg). It is therefore ideal for boxes that can be transported on pallets or for transporting very heavy products such as household appliances or furniture, for example.

Its triple thickness makes it resistant to tearing, moisture, temperature fluctuations and vertical compression. It is very strong and can be used repeatedly. This makes it even more economical and environmentally friendly. Its triple wall thickness protects very fragile items such as electronic products, artwork or glass bottles. Due to its properties, triple-slotted cardboard is recommended for heavy-duty transport, export and long-term storage.

Several factors must be taken into account when making the right choice

• Theright size saves both nature and cost. The right size and volume of packaging play an important role in reducing transport costs and trying to reduce waste. Correctly sized packaging is also essential for the safety of goods. If the box is too large, the products being transported will move around in it, increasing the risk of damage.
• The nature of the goods determines which type of packaging to choose. Some goods are particularly sensitive to heat, cold, humidity etc. Others may pose a risk if they break or spill during transport (damage to other goods, release of toxic substances, etc.). In this case, first contact the experts who will propose specific packaging solutions. There are, for example, insulated cardboard packaging for food or pharmaceutical products. There are also cardboard packaging designed specifically for bottles.
• Fragile goods should be packaged with care. If the products being transported are very sensitive to impact, it is always advisable to add cushioning material to the packaging. This will protect them better. The appropriate size of the packaging is also essential so that the cushioning material can be easily integrated. Cardboard packaging with integrated padding is also suitable for transporting fragile goods.
• Packaging as an expression of the company’s idea. Need to add value to the product and adapt the packaging to the company’s requirements? Modifying the shape of the carton, colours or adding a message are options we offer our clients. The possibilities of personalizing packaging are really many!