SYSTEMS FOR CLOSING A CARTON

In this post we intend to give you some tips so that you can choose, among all the existing systems, the ideal one to close a cardboard box. Above all, the correct choice of size, format and type of corrugation of the cardboard boxes you will use in your business is very important. However, it is also very important to choose a closure system that is easy to handle and, at the same time, keeps products safe during handling and transport.

Thus, in the packaging sector there are different ways of closing a carton box. As a result, it is necessary to take into consideration both the elements of its structure (flaps and lids) and the reinforcement materials that help the box not open during its transport process (adhesive tapes, strapping tapes, staples, among others). Therefore, let’s analyse which possibilities exist and how they can guarantee that a package is 100% safe:

1. Closure systems for cardboard boxes: flaps

Cardboardboxes with flaps or American boxes feature the most iconic type of closure. That is: four flaps attached to the sides that are folded overlapping the larger pair with the smaller pair.

In this sense, the particularity of this closure system for cardboard boxes is that it requires the help of other materials to perfectly store their contents: adhesive tape, strapping tape or industrial staples.

Closing cardboard boxes with adhesive tape

The most common is the use of adhesive tape to effectively close cardboard boxes with flaps. Depending on the volume and weight of the package, you will have to choose an adhesive tape made of solvent paper, PVC or polypropylene. For example:

• For light packages, up to 20 kg: standard adhesive tape (28 microns thick);
• Suitable for medium weights, up to about 30 kg: 32 micron adhesive tape;
• Recommended for packages up to 35 kg: 35 micron tape;
• For heavier packages: extra high-quality tape (38 microns thick).

How do you apply the adhesive tape to American cartons?

The adhesive tape can be applied to the cardboard box in four different ways:

• L-shaped, covering the edges of the box where the top flaps rest. This is the cheapest system – it helps save tape – but also the least secure;
• U-shaped, covering the entire box, starting from one of the sides and passing through the longitudinal opening left by the upper flaps;
• U-shapedand L-shaped combination, combines the two previous methods;
• In H, a U-shaped closure is made on the top and bottom, complementing it with an L-shaped cover, also on the top and bottom, which wraps around the corners.

Closing cardboard boxes with straps

First of all, when cardboard boxes are to be palletised or have a long way to go to reach their destination, strapping is essential so that the packaging remains unchanged for as long as necessary. It must therefore be placed perpendicular to the opening of the two upper flaps.

Closing cardboard boxes with industrial staples

Another option is to close the flaps by joining the edges with staples. Consult the website and discover our models for industrial stapling.

2. Closure systems for cardboard boxes: lids

Carton boxes with lids consist of two parts: lid and base. They are very quick to close and also to open. You can therefore choose between two types of lids:

Normal lid

Covers the top of the box, with the sides a few centimetres high. This closure system for cardboard boxes is usually complemented with a strapping band.

Telescopic cover

The telescopic lid is fitted to the bottom of the carton until it completely covers the sides of the carton. If the volume of the contents lifts the lid and makes it fit less tightly, you may need to add strapping strips to prevent it from moving.

3. Closure systems for cardboard boxes: tongues

Tongues are a one-step closure system for cardboard boxes. Furthermore, they offer a sober, elegant and discreet presentation for your orders. Tongue and groove boxes are the most widely used in e-commerce, as they are ideal for sending electronic goods, cosmetics, perfumes or jewellery. Depending on the arrangement of the flaps on the lid, cardboard boxes can be divided as follows:

Boxes with the tab at the front

Normally they are used to store vases, glasses, watches and other items. Often they are assembled automatically, which considerably reduces the preparation time of an order.

Boxes with the tongue that inserts into the internal grooves

They offer extra reinforcement compared to boxes that only have a tab at the front. They are perfect for electronics and parapharmacies.

In short, remember that at RAJA you can order your customised cardboard boxes with the closure system that best suits your needs. Call us on 707 788 008 or send us an email contacto@rajapack.pt