Folding Carton Boxes is one of the most common materials used for packaging today. The box itself is usually made from some kind of cardboard (usually corrugated cardboard) which is then coated with a laminate. The coating process can be a one-time or repeated process to achieve different color and thicknesses of coating. Once the coating process is complete, the box is ready to be shipped. This process is often called packing or palletizing because the box is often stacked on a platform or pallet at the shipping dock for quick shipping. The box is also wrapped in cellophane to protect it from moisture during shipping.
Originally, the folding carton boxes made the packaging industry what it is today, starting in the late 19th century in America. The first designs often used were cardboard boxes stacked one upon another with a thin paper coating on top. This was called crb (or coke bottle in British English). Crb designs are often used to represent brands, but they are also popular as individual designs for different products, such as candy bars or cough syrups. The coating also served as a source of insulation against moisture, which helped keep the products fresh and effective even during long periods of storage.
After the introduction of more rigid plastic packaging materials, the folding carton boxes industry quickly took off and became a major worldwide commercial industry. During this time frame, the use of paper packaging was on the decline and paper products (including paperboard) had become commonplace within the food industry. The demand for more durable, efficient packaging alternatives became key. As this shift occurred, many folding carton manufacturers and the industry in general began to specialize in producing these products, particularly rigid foam-based packaging solutions.
Stiffness of the product box itself is important. Flexible plastic is often more resistant to damage, but it can be more difficult to bend and to make the most of a small opening. The advantage of rigid foam folding carton boxes lies in its design and the way it folds into a “tuck-in” style that makes it easier to apply a tight seal that prevents leakage and keeps water out. The result is a product box that can be locked tightly closed, thereby protecting valuable goods from damage.
Over the years, many new and innovative ways to protect and promote the use of folding cartons have been developed. One emerging solution involves using locking lids on the inner surface of the boxes. When opened, these lids secure the lid against spills and moisture which, over time, can weaken the plastic’s seal and cause it to deteriorate. Other methods involve creating a small air gap between the top and bottom of the rigid boxes and using an external sealant to create an additional barrier to moisture.
With more advanced technology and an ever-growing market for personal and household goods, it is expected that the industry will continue to innovate and produce new, innovative products to address new needs. Both rigid and corrugated boxes meet FDA requirements for food and drug products and can be used for packaging all types of goods. A key benefit of the folding carton packaging is its sustainability as a green, low-maintenance packaging option. As the baby boomer generation ages and their preferences change, the demand for flexible, durable, attractive and convenient packaging options will remain strong.