PackagingGlossary
Comprehensive glossary of corrugated packaging and box terminology. Learn the language of the packaging industry.
B
Basis Weight
The weight of a given area of paper, usually expressed as pounds per 1,000 square feet. Higher basis weight generally means stronger material.
Bending Quality
The ability of paperboard to be bent without cracking or breaking. Important for box flaps and folds.
Board Grade
A classification indicating the strength and quality of corrugated board, typically denoted by ECT or Mullen test values.
Burst Test (Mullen)
A test measuring the pressure required to rupture or puncture corrugated board. Results expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI).
C
C-Flute
The most common flute size at approximately 4mm thickness. Offers good cushioning and stacking strength.
Caliper
The thickness of paperboard, measured in points (thousandths of an inch). Higher caliper typically means more rigidity.
Corrugated Board
A material made from one or more fluted sheets glued to one or more flat linerboard sheets. The basis of corrugated boxes.
D
Die Cut
A box cut to a specific shape using a steel rule die. Allows for custom shapes and configurations.
Double Wall
Corrugated board with two fluted layers between three liners. Provides extra strength for heavy items.
E
ECT (Edge Crush Test)
A test measuring a box's ability to resist crushing forces. Rated in pounds per linear inch. Common ratings: 32, 44, 48 ECT.
F
Flute
The wavy, corrugated layer between liners in corrugated board. Different flute sizes (A, B, C, E, F) offer different properties.
FOL (Full Overlap)
A box style where flaps completely overlap for extra strength. Ideal for heavy contents.
G
Gaylord
A large bulk container, typically 48x40x36 inches, designed to fit standard pallets. Used for bulk storage and shipping.
H
HSC (Half Slotted Container)
A box style with one open end and one closed end. Often used for display purposes or with separate lids.
K
Kraft
Strong, unbleached paper made from wood pulp. The brown color typical of corrugated boxes comes from kraft linerboard.
L
Linerboard
The flat sheets that form the inner and outer faces of corrugated board. Can be kraft (brown) or white.
R
RSC (Regular Slotted Container)
The most common box style with four flaps that meet at the center when closed. Economical and versatile.
S
Score Line
A crease made in corrugated board to allow easier, cleaner folding without cutting through the material.
Single Face
Corrugated board with fluting attached to only one liner. Used for wrapping and cushioning.
Single Wall
Standard corrugated board with one fluted layer between two liners. Suitable for most shipping applications.
Slotted Container
A box made from a single piece of corrugated board, folded to create flaps that close the top and bottom.
Stacking Strength
A box's ability to support weight stacked on top of it. Important for warehouse storage and shipping.
T
Telescope Box
A two-piece box design with a separate top that fits over the bottom. Allows for variable heights.
Triple Wall
Heavy-duty corrugated board with three fluted layers. Used for very heavy items or harsh shipping conditions.
Need Help Understanding Your Packaging Needs?
Our experts can help translate industry terminology into solutions for your specific requirements.