Buying Guide
How to Choose Corrugated Board
Learn how to select the right corrugated board grade, flute type, and wall structure for your packaging application.
Quick Answer
Choose corrugated board based on product weight, stacking height, shipping method, print needs, and cost target. Key factors include wall structure, flute profile, liner quality, ECT rating, and moisture exposure during transport.
Wall Structure
Single wall: lightweight consumer goods and e-commerce cartons.
Double wall: heavier products and export shipping.
Triple wall: industrial parts and high-load applications.
Flute Profiles
A flute: cushioning and stacking.
B flute: good print surface and moderate strength.
C flute: general-purpose shipping cartons.
E flute: retail packaging and thin board.
Liner Considerations
Kraft liner offers strength. White-top liner supports branding. Recycled liner reduces cost but may affect appearance and consistency.
Strength Metrics
Ask suppliers for ECT (Edge Crush Test), burst strength, and basis weight of liner and medium.
Buyer Checklist
Product weight per carton.
Maximum stacking layers in warehouse or container.
Transport humidity and vibration exposure.
Print coverage and color requirements.
PackTrades Recommendation
Start with the minimum board grade that passes your stacking test, then upgrade only if field damage or customer complaints justify the extra cost.