Cardboard, Cartonboard or Corrugated?

Cardboard, Cartonboard or Corrugated?

Cardboard is a generic term for heavy-duty paper. As such, it is used to describe different types of packaging material, most often cartonboard or corrugated cardboard. In this article, we explain the difference between the two, so you can specify your requirements to a packaging manufacturer.

What’s the difference Between Cartonboard and Corrugated Cardboard?

Both cartonboard and corrugated are widely used as packaging materials. They provide a sturdy, printable and sustainable solution for presenting products. Both can be cut or folded into a wide variety of shapes, so are versatile. However, they are distinct, so it is good to know what you want.

What is Cartonboard?

Cartonboard is paper pulp that has been pressed and dried to form a rigid single-layer sheet. It is produced in various thicknesses and has a flat surface which is ideal for applying a full range of print and finish techniques. It is sometimes called paperboard.

Uses of Cartonboard in Packaging

Cartonboard is most commonly used for retail packaging and you can find plenty of examples in your cupboards. It can be used as primary packaging, such as holding loose-leaf tea, vinyl records and packs of cards. Equally, it is often used as secondary packaging, with other packaging material inside. Examples include cereal boxes, with a plastic inner, or medication, holding pill packets or bottles.

Cardboard tubes are another example of cartonboard packaging. These are widely used to wrap toilet paper, kitchen foil, fabrics and posters.

Cartonboard mailing envelopes are used for shipping, especially slimline, letterbox-friendly deliveries. It’s common to receive items including books, brochures and gaming DVDs.

Can you Print Cartonboard?

When used for retail packaging, cartonboard boxes often have a print-finished outer layer which is smooth to the touch. These are designed with shelf appeal in mind. Inside, may also be printed or you may find the greyish, slightly rougher, paper pulp.

What is Corrugated Cardboard?

Rather than a single layer, corrugated cardboard is formed from fluted sheets of paper adhered between sheets of flat liner paper. This design transforms a thin, lightweight material into a strong, cushioning, insulating and durable packaging material. It can be single-walled or double-walled for extra rigidity.

Uses of Corrugated in Packaging

Corrugated cardboard is the most widely used material for shipping boxes and e-commerce packaging. Millions are transporting goods across the country every minute of every day. Whether you send items directly to customers or retailers and wholesalers, there’s a high chance that you are using corrugated cardboard.

The cushioning and insulating properties of corrugated make it ideal for holding and handling weightier, bulkier or delicate items. This includes white goods, musical instruments, drink bottles and manufactured parts. It also makes the ideal material for inserts that heighten the presentation and protection of goods.

Can Corrugated Cardboard Be Printed?

The fluting means that this packaging has a bumpy surface. Although we are all familiar with a plain brown cardboard box, it is straightforward to print. However, the level of detail that can be achieved is less than cartonboard. We usually recommend flexographic print for branding or adding icons, instructions and graphics to corrugated boxes.

How About Moulded Cardboard?

Cartonboard is flattened paper pulp. However, it’s possible to mould the fibres into a variety of shapes before drying. An egg box is the most common example and you can often see individual fruits, including apples and pears, packaged in moulded cardboard. Other examples are the inserts inside boxes that separate components.

The bumpy texture and shaped surface mean that moulded cardboard isn’t suitable for printing. However, dyes are sometimes added to the pulp to vary the colour.

Cardboard Packaging Manufacturer

As specialists in cardboard packaging, we can advise on the most appropriate type of cardboard for your requirements and manufacture exactly what you need. Tell us about your products, fulfilment, transport and storage and we’ll inform you of the best options. What’s more, we love a challenge, so if you are looking to package more unusual items, we’ll put our cardboard engineering skills to the test.

To find out more call 01296 436888 or email enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.