Folding Cartons

Standard folding cartons suit suitable lightweight retail products and can be assembled as needed. Heavy-duty folding cartons use 36-point kraft paperboard for a heavier option, but thickness alone does not establish a universal product-weight or stacking rating. Trial the carton with the merchandise, inserts and closure method.

Stationery cartons use separate top and bottom pieces and are sized around business cards, forms, letterhead and related paper products. Rigid set-up cartons arrive preassembled, reducing forming labor but requiring more warehouse space. Their formed construction provides a different presentation, not automatic shipping protection. Add a corrugated outer shipper when distribution conditions require it.

Use interior length, width and depth and keep dimension orientation consistent. Allow room for product thickness, tissue, inserts, literature and practical loading without forcing the panels or lid. Too much empty space can allow movement and weaken presentation, while an undersized carton can bow, tear or fail to close.

Consider assembly time, closure, labeling, shelf display and storage before approving a carton. Reverse-tuck styles require proper panel sequence and crease handling. Two-piece and rigid cartons need a lid fit that remains secure without crushing the contents. Test the complete retail package and any outer shipper together, especially when the carton will move through parcel distribution.