Common Types of Cardboard Shipping Boxes

Choosing which type of boxes to use for specific product shipping can be difficult for some companies. However, if you have a set product list, then you will be able to choose the correct type of cardboard shipping boxes to fit your product needs.

Bulk cargo shipping boxes are able to withstand over two hundred pounds and can be used for shipments that may freely move throughout deliver. These boxes are made to ship a lot of small items or a few large items and normally require a pallet underneath them upon delivery. They are one of the most commonly chosen boxes for shipping.

Depending on the product that is being shipped, easy-fold mailers and side loaders are perfect for pictures, frames, and other flat items that are no thicker than a stack of paper. The easy-fold mailers and side loaders allow for easy insertion. Although side loaders have only one open side, easy-fold mailers can be folded over the product to better hold it in place. Both of these styles are used by art galleries, artists, and movers. For more than a few stacked papers or files, storage file boxes are used.

Some products may be lighter in weight than others. Products like these, such as empty sports containers, use light weight cardboard shipping boxes. These boxes cannot withstand much weight, but they can ship multiple products upon demand. If a box that can hold a lot of weight is needed to ship product, the bulk cargo boxes are more ideal. Moving boxes can be used in place of bulky cargo boxes, but they are not commonly used by companies unless they are in retail. Moving boxes are normally used during residential moving.

Many products that are found in a chemical lab or company will require a Haz Mat cardboard box upon shipping. Most of the Haz Mat boxes and other items will clearly state that it is hazardous material container and may cause damage if opened improperly or shaken. Labs and companies that deal with vaccines and other important vials, the insulated shipper might be ideal. This type of box has insulation on all four inside sides and on the very bottom. However, insulated shippers are not insulated on the top of the product when the box is fully closed. Some products must have a customized box when shipping. This can vary with the product’s weight, size, height, and overall contents.

[7/31/2014]