Picking The Right Carton For Product Packaging

Often in product design, the focus of the design team is on the actual product and its primary packaging.  Although the shipper carton has the important function of making sure the product makes it in perfect condition through the distribution channel, the design of this package can become a rushed afterthought when entering into the launch phase.

Choosing a carton that maximizes your product’s protection without paying extra for an over-specified solution requires that you understand corrugated box construction.  The first place to find out how the carton was designed is to understand the Box Certificate that is printed on most cartons.

 

Bursting Test – This measurement is an indication of the quality of the box.  This number is determined from the Mullen test, which measures the pressure (pounds per square inch) required for the corrugate to rupture.  This measurement is a good indication of how effective the carton will be at maintaining its structural integrity when dropped or loaded with heavy contents that exert pressure on a small area of the carton.  Certification with this test requires the corrugate to be constructed within specific parameters.

Edge Crush Test – This is a new standard that is sometimes used in place of the Bursting Test.  This measurement indicates the stacking strength of the carton by measuring the minimum pounds per linear inch needed to compress the edge of the corrugate board. This method of measurement allows manufacturers to use less expensive, lighter weight board than what is required for a Burst Test certified carton.

Minimum Combined Weight On Facings – This measurement is an indication of the stacking strength of the carton certified with the Burst Test.  This number is the weight the sides of the carton can hold up when a load is applied to the top.  This measurement is generally indicated in pounds per square foot.

Size Limit – This number indicates the maximum carton size allowed for the corrugate board used to construct the box.  This is determined my adding the length, width and height of the carton.

Gross Weight Limit – This value indicates the maximum weight that can be loaded into the carton.  Although this is the specified maximum weight, consideration should be given to the type of product loaded into the box and the mode of transportation to determine what weight should actually be loaded into the carton.  A carton loaded to the weight limit with an irregularly shaped item may not be adequately protected.  Also, a carton at the weight limit may be adequately protected when palletized but prove inadequate when shipped as an individual parcel.

The goal of protective packaging is to get your product through the distribution channel and into the end user’s hands in pristine condition. Understanding the Box Certificate is a great starting point to knowing if your carton will be adequate to achieve this goal, and put you on your way to achieving your larger goal of bringing your product successfully to market.

Box Maker’s Certificate
All About Boxes
Technical Notes On The Use Of Corrugated Paperboard Boxes
Box Manufacturer’s Certificates
Understanding the Box Maker’s Certificate