If you are looking for an easy, versatile and safe way of packaging your products, you might want to choose folding carton packaging. There are many different types, depending on your packaging needs. In this blog, we have gathered the most commonly used types of folding carton packaging, so you can choose the right type for your product.
What is folding carton packaging?
The name is actually quite self-explanatory. Folding carton packaging refers to packaging that is folded to form a carton box. These boxes are used for a wide range of products, from toys to food. They are typically made out of paperboards or fibreboards and can be tailored to various purposes through different folding techniques. This type of packaging has many benefits, including versatility, customizability, and eco-friendliness.
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The different types of folding carton packaging explained
There are endless types of folding carton packaging, each serving a specific purpose. Here, we list 11 of the most commonly used types, along with their ideal applications in various industries.
Straight tuck/reverse tuck
Common use: This type is ideal for products in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
Straight tuck boxes provide a clean, seamless look and are easy to assemble, making them perfect for items like cosmetics (lipsticks and creams), pharmaceuticals (tablets), and food products (chocolates and tea). The reverse tuck offers similar functionality, but may be used when a slightly different closure mechanism is preferred for packaging machinery.
1-2-3 bottom/lock bottom
Common use: A folding carton packaging that is suitable for heavier products, such as electronics, candles and glassware.
The 1-2-3 bottom carton is designed for easy assembly, with interlocking flaps that form a strong base. This makes it an ideal choice for products that require extra support at the bottom. For instance, in the electronics industry, these boxes are often used to package small gadgets and accessories, while in the home goods sector, they are perfect for heavy items like candles or small glass jars.
Auto-lock/crash bottom
Common use: Widely used for heavier food products (e.g., jars and bottles) and delicate items like cosmetics in glass containers.
Auto-lock bottoms provide additional strength through a pre-glued, auto-assembling bottom panel. This design is preferred for products that need a reinforced base, such as bottled sauces, honey jars, or high-end cosmetic bottles. The auto-lock mechanism also speeds up the packing process, making it suitable for fast-paced manufacturing environments.
Two-piece
Common use: Popular for luxury products such as high-end chocolates, jewelry and cosmetics.
Two-piece boxes create a double-walled structure for extra protection. The luxurious presentation of this packaging style makes it a preferred choice for gift boxes in the jewelry industry and premium packaging for cosmetics like perfumes or expensive skincare products.
Tuck top
Common use: This type of folding carton packaging is used for bakery products (cakes and cookies) and small electronic gadgets.
Tuck top boxes are similar to two-piece boxes but with an attached lid, making them easy to open and close. This feature makes them suitable for products that require repeated access, like baked goods. The sturdy structure also provides adequate protection for small electronics, such as earbuds or USB drives.
Thumb tabs
Common use: Frequently used for products that require easy access, such as stationery (pens and notepads) or cosmetics (compact powders).
The addition of thumb tabs allows for quick and effortless opening, enhancing the user experience. This makes them ideal for packaging cosmetics where the product will be accessed frequently, or for stationery items that need to be easily opened without damaging the box.
Display
Common use: Ideal for retail products such as candies, snack bars and small toys.
This type of folding carton packaging is designed to showcase products directly at the point of sale. Retailers prefer these boxes for counter displays, where they can highlight smaller items. The front cut-out provides maximum visibility, making it easy for customers to see and select the product.
Cut-outs
Common use: Used for showcasing products like food (tea bags and chocolates) and cosmetics (lipsticks and nail polish).
Sometimes you need your product to be more visible inside the folded carton packaging. In that case, cut-outs are a good solution. For example, a tea brand might use a cut-out to reveal the sachets inside, allowing customers to see the quality of the product before purchasing.
Inserts
Common use: Essential for fragile items like electronics (earphones and accessories) and cosmetics (glass bottles and jars).
Inserts help keep the product in place, preventing movement during transit. This is crucial for fragile products, such as small electronic components or glass cosmetic bottles. The use of cardboard inserts or blister packaging adds an extra layer of protection while also enhancing the unboxing experience.
Sleeve
Common use: For personalizing products like premium food (chocolates and macarons) and promotional items (gift sets).
Sleeves add an extra layer of protection and branding to the main packaging. They are often used to provide additional product information or promotional graphics. For example, a chocolate brand might use a sleeve to add seasonal graphics or limited-edition branding around a standard box.
Child-resistant folding carton packaging
Common use: Specifically designed for pharmaceuticals and products requiring restricted access (e.g., vitamins and supplements).
This type of folded carton packaging ensures safety by incorporating mechanisms that make it difficult for children to open while remaining accessible to seniors. It is vital in the pharmaceutical industry for products like blister packs containing medication, offering both protection and compliance with safety regulations.
Folding carton packaging offers a customizable solution for ranging products across various industries. By understanding the common use and benefits of each type, businesses can select the most suitable packaging to protect their products, enhance the customer experience and effectively promote their brand. Whether you need a strong base for heavy items, an elegant presentation for luxury goods, or child-resistant features for pharmaceuticals; there is a folding carton design to meet your packaging needs.
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