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 means that the packaging is folded to form a carton box. These boxes are used for many different products, ranging from toys to food. There are many types and the folding techniques vary depending on what the purpose of the carton box will be. The folded carton packaging is usually made out of paperboards or fibreboards. This type of packaging has many benefits.
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The different types of folding carton packaging explained
There are endless types of folding carton packaging, each serving their own purpose. In this blog, we have listed the 10 types that are most commonly used.
Straight tuck/reverse tuck
These are two types of folding carton packaging that are very common. A straight tuck means that the box folds in the same direction from the front to the back. You just fold the top and the bottom closed, with two lids on the side and a big one that folds over it. Reverse tuck is similar to the straight tuck, but has a different closing panel. Meaning that the top and the bottom fold differently, in opposite directions. So, one folds from the front, while the other folds from the back.
1-2-3 bottom/lock bottom
A 1-2-3 bottom box is as easy as the name suggests. With the easy 3-step assembly, the box can be put together quite quickly. All you need to do is make sure the bottom flaps push into each other, the sides, back and front, to form a sturdy box. This folded carton packaging is ideal for heavier items.
Auto-lock/crash bottom
This type of folding carton packaging is also ideal for items that are heavier, because it provides additional support on the bottom. Usually, these boxes have a pre-glued bottom to ensure strength.
Two-piece
A two-piece box consists of two separate parts that fit together. The two halves create double walls and are usually used for more high-end products like chocolate or jewellery.
Tuck top
A tuck top box is essentially a two-piece box where the lid is still attached to the other half. The box closes by folding and tucking in the sides of the top half.
Thumb tabs
Thumb tabs are a feature on the box that make it easier to open the lid. The thumb cut-outs provide easy access to the lid. These can be placed either on the bottom or the top, or both.
Display
A display box is a type of folding carton packaging that is often used on counters to display the individual products in one carton box. The top is raised and transforms into a display panel on the back. On the front, it is usually possible to cut out or fold a way part of the carton, to create extra visibility of the products inside the box.
Cut-outs
Sometimes you need your product to be more visible inside the folded carton packaging. In that case, cut-outs are a good solution. These allow the customer to see your product. You can choose a design for the cut-outs, making this a very versatile type of packaging.
Inserts
Some boxes can have inserts in them, for example, to keep the product in place. This can be blister packages, or a piece of cardboard that has a hole in it where the product goes. These inserts can be useful for fragile products or products that will otherwise not stay properly visible.
Sleeve
There are types of folding carton packaging that require a little extra protection or personalisation. That is what a sleeve box can do. This is a box with an open-top and bottom, that you slide over another box.
Child-resistant folding carton packaging
Another type of folded carton packaging that might be a good solution is child-resistant packaging. Locked4Kids offers a solution that consists of a combination of a box and a plastic tray, which is inserted in the box. This versatile and cost-effective solution makes it easy to pack blister strips with individual doses of medicine. The folded carton packaging is laminated with foil and has two hooks that need to be pressed simultaneously for the box to open. Thus, making it child-resistant, while still keeping it senior-friendly. It may not yet be the most commonly used type of folding carton packaging, but it surely should be!