Types of boxes, compared.
The right style depends on where the box goes. If it sits on a shelf, you need a carton. If it goes in the mail on its own, you need a mailer. If it's kept, you need a rigid box.
At a glance
Ten styles, one table.
| Style | What it is | Use it for | Ships |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folding carton | Printed paperboard, tuck ends | Retail shelves | Flat, then folded |
| Mailer box | Self-locking corrugated, printed in and out | E-commerce, subscriptions | On its own, no outer carton |
| Rigid box | Wrapped greyboard lid and base | Gifts, jewelry, premium products | Inside a plain mailer |
| Sleeve and drawer | A drawer that slides out of a printed sleeve | Candles, jewelry, gift sets | Inside a mailer |
| Display box | Counter box that holds several units | Retail counters | Flat, then folded |
| Pillow box | Curved-ends paper box | Small, light items | Flat |
| Gable box | Handled box with a gabled top | Baked goods and takeaway food | Flat |
| Shipping box | Corrugated carton | Outer shipping, heavier contents | Flat |
| Paper pouch | Stand-up kraft pouch with reseal | Coffee, snacks, bath goods | Flat |
| Paper tube | Round wound-paper tube | Posters, candles, tapers | Packed upright |
Mixing up shelf and shipping boxes is the most common mistake. Check shipping box sizes before you order, and compare boards if the style is settled.
When none of these fit.
For only a few boxes we can consider it, but stock may cost less. If you need boxes inside our 10–12 day production window, buy stock. If you can't see your product here, send the dimensions and we'll say which style is closest.
FAQ
Style questions.
What is the cheapest box style?
A folding carton is usually the least expensive because it ships flat and uses the least board. Ask for a quote with your size and quantity for a real number.
What is the difference between a mailer and a folding carton?
A mailer is corrugated and ships on its own. A folding carton is thin paperboard for the shelf and needs a box around it in the mail.
Which box feels most premium?
A rigid box. The weight tells the buyer what the product is priced at. It's also the heaviest to ship, so keep it for gifts and special editions.
What is the minimum order for any style?
Best value starts at 50 units per design, because of logistics and shipping. If you need fewer, tell us: we can consider smaller orders.
Not sure which style?
Send the product's dimensions and how it ships. We'll name the style, or tell you to buy stock.
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