What is the Difference Between Cardboard Boxes and Cartons? 

The packaging industry has its own terminology, which often gets misinterpreted by businesses and people who have just started or are looking for packaging materials for their business. One such example is cardboard boxes and cartons. Almost all packaging boxes are made up of paper material but vary in strength and thickness. The same is the case with cardboard boxes and cartons.

This article will discuss the differences between cardboard boxes and cartons and the pros and cons of each.

What Are Cardboard Boxes?

A cardboard box is made of corrugated material; thus, it is also commonly called a corrugated cardboard box. A corrugated cardboard box has two main components, a liner and a medium. The board is made of a special type of heavy paper called containerboard.

The liner is placed on the outer sides of the medium. The medium is designed in the shape of flutes or ridges and placed between the liners. These ridges help provide structural stability and ensure the box can handle heavyweight items easily.

The flutes prevent the box from bending under minimal pressure and act as an insulator and cushion to the items placed inside, ensuring they don’t get damaged during transit. Thus, cardboard boxes are ideal for businesses dealing with heavy items and electronics.

Pros

● They have an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

● Highly durable and protect the items placed inside them.

● Eco-friendly and reusable.

Cons

● They are costlier than other packaging items.

● Not suitable for weather conditions like snow and rain.

● Too much pressure can crush these boxes.

What Are Cartons?

Carton boards are made of paperboards, layers of polyethylene plastic, and aluminum. You can also find cartons made with corrugated fiberboard. Cartons are mainly used in the food and beverage industry. The materials used to build various cartons depend on the item being packaged.

For instance, shelf-stable cartons are used for products like juice, wine, broth, and milk. They contain an average of 74% paper, 22% polyethylene, and 4% aluminum. In contrast, refrigerated cartons are used for milk, juice, egg substitutes, etc., and contain around 80% paper and 20% polyethylene.

Generally, cartons are thinner than corrugated cardboard boxes and have a flat surface with no ridges.

Pros

● They are easier to print on and great for branding.

● Used for food and beverages and ensure they last longer.

● Thin and lightweight, easier to carry.

● Recyclable and eco-friendly.

Cons

● They aren’t able to carry heavy items.

● Easily damaged under light pressure.

Conclusion – Which is Better?

Now that you know the difference between cardboard boxes and cartons, you can choose the best fit for your business. If you sell heavyweight items like electronic gadgets, you will benefit from corrugated cardboard boxes as they offer increased strength and durability and are available in multiple sizes.

In contrast, cartons are the superior options for businesses in the food and beverage industry. Carton boxes are also available for lightweight items but can be easily damaged.

When it comes to branding and marketing, cartons are an attractive option. They are thin and easily handled by printers. Businesses can print their logo and other branding material to get their brand out there and build a good impression.