Choose the right carton for your shipping needs

Types of cartons

 Regular Slotted Cartons are industry standard. They're ideal for storage and shipping, and the most economical size is a 2:1:2 Ratio (L: W: H).

 Full Overlap Flap Slotted Case (FOLF)

This durable option is ideal for holding heavier items that may require extra protection and/or stacking. Similar to the RSC model, the primary difference is the fully overlapping flaps, which provide extra cushioning.

 Five Panel Folder (FPF)

This five-panel, single-cut option is convenient for packaging either large, flat items or long and slim items. The fifth panel acts as an extra piece of protection, overlapping the first panel, or the two ends can even meet in the middle.

 Tray with Self-Locking Ends

This flexible option can be used in conjunction with other containers for transporting small or delicate parts (not for shipping alone) and can also be used for displaying items. This tray features a single board, an unbroken bottom and corrugated board in the end panels.

 Half-Slotted Case (HSC)

This dynamic option allows for holding items that need to be accessed regularly and vary in height and size. Similar to the RSC model, with the only difference being no top flaps at the opening.

 Snap or 1-2-3 Bottom Case

This self-assembling option allows for easy set-up – simply fold the bottom panel, followed by the two end panels. The last panel folds and slides into place, creating a case that is lightweight and suitable for smaller product volumes.

How to measure a carton

A shipper/carton should always be opened and laid flat to measure the true internal dimensions. Measure crease to crease. When measuring an RSC it is very important to use the internal measurements, as the internal and external measurements of the cartons can vary depending on the thickness of the board.

For an RSC carton, measure the appropriate panels crease to crease as per the diagram above and take off the following measurement:

NOTE: Do not measure the last panel of the carton, as this is generally 3mm shorter than the other panels.

*See below for Flute Thickness Definitions

 Did you know? The most economical size of RSC is a 2:1:2 Ratio (L: W: H)

Internal Dimensions: Usable space inside the shipper (volume). We work to these dimensions.

External Dimensions: Outside cubic dimension of the shipper used for shipping purposes, e.g. for pallets and containers. When quoting a size, write as: Length x Width x Height.

Choosing the right corrugated board

Corrugated board is made up of a corrugated medium sandwiched between two liners. This medium is called fluting:

C Flute	B Flute	I Flute	Twin Cushion (BC Flute)	E Flute
4mm thick: Good stacking strength Good crushing resistance	3mm thick: Good puncture resistance Less space is consumed in the warehouse	2.3mm thick: Better print presentation Less space is consumed in the warehouse Superseding B flute soon	7mm thick A combination of B and C flutes Very good crushing resistance	3mm thick: Mostly used in meat boxes or small die cuts Stronger alternative to carton board

Liners

There is a large variation in paper grammages available in the market. Here's a guide to the paper grams per square metre used by OfficeMax:

Custom cartons

Can't find the right-sized carton to package your goods? We can custom-make cartons to meet your needs.

Select from various board grades to ensure the level of protection your goods require. We can optimise the design to meet your protection, space, product and transportation needs.

Printed cartons

Advertise your company name, brand or product by using printed cartons. A simple but effective personalised tool for your business.

Choose from a range of corrugated print options, including simple one-colour printing to six-colour printing, litho-laminate, or flexography.

Other options available include UV- and moisture-barrier coatings.