The accurate definition of a box is very important in packaging. It gives the proper dimensions for a snug fit and allows the security of products during shipment. It saves money by avoiding extra, oversized charges. So, how do I correctly measure a box?
Imagine that you have packed something breakable. You send it off in a larger box than the product size, and consumers find it broken. Frustrating, right? That is why knowing how to measure a box properly is crucial. It saves one from such situations and works for customer satisfaction. Now, let us get into the easy steps of taking those measurements correctly.
There are three main dimensions to measure in a box: length, width, and height. A tape measure will give the best accuracy. Measure the length first, followed by the width and then the height. Write the numbers down in that order. Following this method will ensure you get the right fit and protection. Want more? Continue reading and become a pro at measuring boxes, plus learn the best box styles for your needs!
How to Measure a Box?
There is a saying, "Measure twice, cut once." This could not be further from the truth for your boxes as well. You want to make damn sure that if you're going to order a massive amount of boxes, you get the dimensions right for both your printing and distribution processes. Just eyeballing measurements won't cut it.
A common shipping box size would be 16"x12"x12". This is a 1.5 cubic foot box. One important thing to remember regarding measuring a box is the difference between interior and exterior measurements. For instance, a box that is 16″x12″x12″ describes the interior. measurements. The same box would measure 16 3/8×12 3/8×12 5/8″ on the outside. Always check your dimensions to ensure you do not make an expensive mistake.
When dimensions of boxes are shown in catalogs or websites, they are most frequently interior dimensions and in the sequence of length, width, and height, L x W x H. When ordering custom boxes, the exact cubic size should be measured to the nearest 1/10th of an inch to be accurate.
Custom Box Styles and Their Builds
Now that you know how to measure a box, we can discuss several box styles. There are hundreds, but we will discuss the most popular.
Corrugated Boxes
Corrugated boxes are primarily used for shipping because they are hard. They come in four builds:
Single Face:
A single piece of fiberboard glued to a single fluted corrugated medium, used most in packing material.
Single Wall:
Two pieces of fiberboard are glued to a fluted corrugated medium and is the most commonly in shipping needs.
Double Wall:
Three pieces of fiberboard are alternated with two fluted corrugated mediums, which offer more protection for those heavy items.
Triple Wall:
It also adds an added layer of fiberboard and corrugated medium with equal strength to that of wooden crates; thus, being ideal for industrial or medical equipment.
Fluted Corrugated Mediums
Flute variances adjust the dimensional weight with respect to durability, depending on the actual weight of what you're shipping:
- Flute: 33 flutes per square foot, 3/16" thickness
- Flute: 47 flutes per square foot, 1/8" thickness
- Flute: 39 flutes per square foot, 5/32" thickness
- Flute: 90 flutes per square foot, 1/16" thickness
- Flute: 125 flutes per square foot, 1/32" thickness
Other Box Styles
Besides just corrugated boxes, there are other styles:
- Slotted Boxes
- Regular Slotted Container (RSC)
- Half Slotted Container (HSC)
- Overlap Slotted Container (OSC)
- Full Overlap Slotted Container (FOL)
- Telescope Boxes
- Setup (Rigid) Boxes
- Folders
- SelfErecting
- Interior Forms
Slotted Boxes
Slotted boxes are made of a single piece of corrugated fiberboard. They are easy to fold and set up.
Regular Slotted Container (RSC):
This is the most commonly used box type. It has two sets of flaps, each half the width of the box that meet in the middle and close with tape.
Half Slotted Container (HSC):
Basically, it is similar to RSC but with just one set of flaps.
Overlap Slotted Container (OSC):
Two sets of flaps of equal length overlap. Generally stapled.
Full Overlap Slotted Container (FOL):
All the flaps are of equal length, and the whole width of the box is covered. It offers greater security and easier stacking.
Telescope Boxes
Telescoping boxes are designed to have two separate components: a top and a bottom. The primary styles are:
Full Telescope Design Style Container (FTD):
Made from two slotted pieces that slide inside each other.
Box Design Style Container with Cover:
The top section does not slide down the entire length of the bottom section, similar to a standard shoebox.
Rigid Boxes
Also known as bliss boxes, rigid boxes have two same-size end panels, a body that folds to create side panels and a seamless bottom. Once the joints are sealed, the box is considered rigid.
Folders
Folders are single pieces of corrugated fiberboard that fold to create a seamless bottom with top flaps. Variants include:
- OnePiece Folder (OPF)
- FivePanel Folder (FPF)
- Trays: Fold and join together to form rigid containers, usually with a cover or open top.
Self Erecting Boxes
These boxes have top flaps similar to a standard slotted container but are equipped with a pre-glued auto bottom that allows them to erect quickly and easily.
Interior Forms
Interior forms are corrugated pieces such as dividers, liners, pads, partitions, or tubes that provide additional strength to boxes and protection for fragile products.
Each box style has been designed to serve a certain purpose, so pick the right one for your shipping needs.
Packaging Fill and Its Effect on Box Dimensions
It does not matter what goes inside your box. Below are some of the common void-fill options and their effects:
Packaging Paper
If you need to fill spaces in your box and protect items, packaging paper is a good option. This implies that it can be used with large or small boxes without altering them significantly. For example, newsprint and kraft paper are both durable options. Also, one can use recyclable papers, which are more eco-friendly.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is great for protecting fragile items. However, this material is not environmentally friendly and takes up much space when stored. Some brands still use it, though it has some disadvantages, like cushioning properties. It works well for protecting delicate objects during transportation.
Corrugated Paper
Corrugated paper offers an alternative method of packaging other than bubble wrap in an environmentally friendly manner because it is made from the leftover materials gotten from manufacturing boxes. It provides good protection while presenting better as compared to other types of such materials. I can be easily wrapped around various things, making it flexible.
Inflatables
Inflatables, such as air pillows, provide adequate cushioning for goods in transit. Many businesses now use these products instead of loose fill. They should fit tightly within cartons, hence the requirement for exact sizing. However, they have lightweight properties that help save storage space, but they need special air-filling equipment. These inflatables work best when filling big spaces in boxes.
Custom Inserts
Custom inserts improve both safety and the experience of unboxing. Custom inserts require accurate measuring so that they perfectly fit inside the package. The inserts make sure that all items are fixed safely in position. Although its addition means a lot in terms of packaging costs, improved presentation and safety make all the difference.
Crinkle Paper
Crinkle paper makes small items look elegant while being protected enough. It's basically crinkled, shredded paper basically. Gift packaging is a good example of this type of void fill. It provides a cushion while also adding a decorative touch.
Packing Peanuts
Packing peanuts is great when it comes to filling up large spaces in the boxes. But they are untidy and not eco-friendly at all. They can be hard for customers to clean up. Yet many businesses no longer use traditional packing peanuts.
Biodegradable Starch Peanuts
Biodegradable starch peanuts serve as an alternative to normal packing materials, which are not environmentally friendly. They function in the same way that ordinary packing nuts do; however, they will decompose by themselves over time. These peanuts have environmental advantages that endear them to customers. Eco-minded brands often choose this option.
Double Boxing
Double boxing is used for extra protection of valuable or fragile items. It involves putting an inside box into an outside shipping carton, thus making the packing thicker. When using this method, there will be additional costs, although it improves quality. This system works best when making expensive deliveries.
Instapak
Instapak is foam that expands and takes the shape of both the item and container during the shipping process of shipping.Expensive or heavy products get well protected under Instapak, though it has its own restrictions related to environmental friendliness. Instapak does well when transporting high-value, delicate gear.
Molded Pulp
Molded pulp is made from recycled newsprint or cardboard. This makes it ecologically friendly and excellent for protecting fragile things such as wine bottles. It fits snugly around items, ensuring they won’t move in transit. It is very protective and responsible for the environment.
Tips to Pick the Right Box Size
First, measure the length, width, and height of whatever it is that's being shipped in your products. Your box should fit snugly around it, with no extra space.
Look at the Product’s Dimensions
Always measure your product first. The box size should have a little extra space in it to avoid any damage due to the tight fit. Accurate measurement will help you get a nice fitting box that protects well enough.
Allow for Packing Material
Remember to accommodate packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam, or peanuts for cushioning fragile items. These packing materials are effective but consume more space. By adding them to your measurements, your products will be properly padded and secure.
Consider Shipment and Handling
Consider how the parcel will be transported and treated. Heavier boxes would need stronger materials, whereas lighter ones could be cheaper. Understanding how your package is going to be handled helps in selecting the right strength and kind of box.
Opportunities for Branding
There is one point you should consider - the size of the box. A box that is well-sized could improve your presentation of products. Customers will always remember custom-sized boxes with your branding and logo on them.
Eco-Friendly Considerations
Select box sizes that minimize material waste and are made from recycled paper or cardboard. By making these choices, you can appeal to green customers.
Final Thoughts
The correct selection of the appropriate dimension and style of your box is essential to keep in mind while protecting your products, and also making sure that customers experience a positive unboxing impression. You should at all times be careful when planning your packaging strategy so that it includes product dimensions, protection needs, and environmental concerns.
Get in touch with custom packaging experts for the best ideas on addressing your shipping problems.
