How to Resize Cardboard Boxes

How to Resize Cardboard Boxes

You have something to send and have a box to reuse, but it is too big. Is there a way to resize cardboard boxes to save you from buying more packaging?

The Issue with Oversized Cardboard Boxes

Oversized boxes are not viewed positively by recipients and they cause a few issues in shipping and storage too.

Firstly, the goods inside are not so well protected if they can move about. If items can knock together or be thrown from one end of the box to another, it increases the risk of damage. Secondly, a half empty box is more susceptible to being crushed during transport, especially if stacked. This also reduces the chance of the contents arriving in pristine condition.

For these reasons, void fill is needed to bulk out the empty space in oversized boxes. This has a cost implication and presents the recipient with more packaging waste to dispose of. In addition to the cost of void fill, larger than necessary boxes may incur higher shipping charges and are bulky to store and handle. If your courier charges are based on dimensions, you are paying to send air!

However, if you are keen to reuse packaging, there is a way to resize cardboard boxes to achieve a better fit. You’ll need a suitable box, pencil, ruler and cutting tool.

Resize Cardboard Boxes in 6 Steps

1. Take a cardboard box that is in good condition and load it with the items you wish to send.
2. When everything is packed, use a pencil and ruler to mark where you would like the top of the resized box to be. This mark is made on the inside of the box.
3. Use the ruler and a blunt edge to score, but not cut, along this line. Scoring will make it easier to fold a straighter edge when you reach step 5.
4. Cut down the 4 corners from where the original flaps start, to the point you have scored. This will increase the size of the flaps.
5. Fold the longer flaps down, so they overlap. If they are too long, cut off any excess.
6. Seal the top flaps, add the recipient’s details and send!

That’s one box successfully reused!

Custom Boxes

These steps for resizing cardboard boxes are simple to follow, however, if you are shipping multiple packages each week, there is an easier way. That is to speak to us, your local packaging manufacturer, about custom boxes!

You don’t need to be restricted by standard box sizes. Tell us the typical orders and items that you are sending and we will advise on box styles and fittings. Based on your requirements, we can manufacture packaging solutions that provide some flexibility, whilst minimising the need for void fill or the risk of damage.

What’s more, if you are passionate about reusing cardboard boxes, let us tell you about options including tear strips and seal strips. Tear strips make it easy for customers to open the box whilst retaining its integrity. Seal strips allow them to secure it when returning goods or if reusing the box for other purposes.

Finally, if you think that custom boxes sound expensive, let us provide you with a quote. We think you’ll find our prices offer great value, especially if you factor in the time and costs associated with packing and shipping oversized boxes.

For further information, give us a call: 01296 436888 or email enquiries@abcbox.co.uk and share your requirements. Our team are committed to providing cost-effective and sustainable packaging solutions.