Comparing Box Materials for Custom Packaging

When selling your product, branding, style, and presentation matter just as much as the product itself. Packaging is your brand’s first impression and the material you choose impacts not only the cost and durability but also the customer experience and how well your brand stands out in a competitive market.

Whether you’re a cosmetics startup, a DTC apparel brand, or a boutique chocolatier, having more information about your packaging material options helps you make smarter, more profitable decisions. Let’s take a look.

The Most Common Box Materials for Custom Packaging

1. Folding Carton (Paperboard / Boxboard)

• Best for: Retail display, lightweight consumer goods
• Why choose it: It’s versatile, cost-effective, and supports vibrant printing for strong shelf presence.
• Common uses: Makeup boxes, supplement bottles, small electronics, and artisan foods.

2. Corrugated Boxes (E-Flute, B-Flute, etc.)

• Best for: Shipping, subscription boxes, or bulkier items
• Why choose it: Built for strength and protection, corrugated material comes in different wall thicknesses and flute sizes depending on durability and presentation needs.
• Common uses: E-commerce shipping, wine boxes, glassware, electronics

3. Rigid Set-Up Boxes

• Best for: Premium products and gift-ready packaging
• Why choose it: High-end appearance, strong structural integrity, often used with custom inserts and foil finishes.
• Common uses: Jewelry, luxury fashion accessories, high-end cosmetics, watches

4. Kraft Paperboard (Natural or White)

• Best for: Eco-conscious brands or artisan packaging
• Why choose it: Recyclable and biodegradable, Kraft packaging has a rustic or minimalist look and can be easily custom printed.
• Common uses: Soaps, candles, tea, bakery goods, organic skincare

5. Specialty Materials (Wood, Acrylic, Metal, Magnetic Closures)

• Best for: Influencer kits, premium unboxings, or limited editions
• Why choose it: Eye-catching, Instagram-worthy, and unique. Can create true wow-factor packaging that people remember and share.
• Common uses: High-end PR boxes, VIP mailers

Box Material Comparison Chart

Material	Strength	Print Quality	Eco-Friendly	Cost	Ideal Uses
Folding Carton	★★☆☆☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	$	Retail packaging, cosmetics, food
Corrugated Board	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	$$	Shipping, e-commerce, subscription
Rigid Set-Up Boxes	★★★★★	★★★★★	★★☆☆☆	$$$$	Jewelry, electronics, luxury items
Kraft Paperboard	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★★	$	Artisan, eco-conscious, handmade goods
Specialty Materials	Varies	★★★★★	★★☆☆☆	$$$$+	PR kits, exclusive product packaging

How to Choose the Right Box Material for Your LA Business

A. Think About Your Product

If you’re packaging delicate handmade candles in Venice, you’ll want a different material than a business in Downtown LA shipping tech accessories. Consider:

• Weight and shape
• Fragility
• Shelf vs shipping durability

B. Align With Your Brand

Packaging isn’t just functional, it’s also your first impression.

• High-end skincare? Choose rigid boxes with soft-touch finishes.
• Eco-conscious soaps? Kraft paperboard says it all.

C. Plan for Distribution

• Selling in-store vs shipping DTC?
• Is your box going through USPS, FedEx, or Amazon fulfillment?
• Will customers keep or recycle the box?

D. Match Your Sustainability Values

More LA consumers are choosing brands that walk the walk on sustainability.

• Use recycled paperboard, FSC-certified sources
• Avoid laminates, go for biodegradable coatings or soy inks
• Offer minimal but intentional design to reduce waste

E. Consider Budget and Volume

Short runs? Folding cartons and Kraft are more affordable. Scaling quickly? Corrugated boxes with printed inserts offer a balance of cost and impact. Need luxury for a launch? Invest in rigid or magnetic packaging and scale back once traction is proven.

Why LA Businesses Choose Box City

At Box City, we help LA businesses, from Glendale to Marina Del Rey, create packaging that reflects their identity and supports their growth. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Small MOQs, Big Impact: Whether you need 250 units for a boutique order or 10,000 for your next drop, we’ve got you covered.
• Design Support Included: From dielines to finishes, our team helps translate your vision into physical, print-ready packaging.
• Quick Turnarounds: We’re local and fast—ideal for last-minute launches, pop-up shops, or influencer campaigns.

FAQs: Custom Packaging Materials

What are the most common materials used for custom packaging?

Paperboard (folding cartons), corrugated cardboard, rigid boxes, kraft paper, plastic, and molded pulp are widely used depending on product type and brand needs.

What’s the difference between corrugated cardboard and paperboard?

Corrugated cardboard has a fluted inner layer for strength, ideal for shipping. Paperboard is thinner, used for retail packaging and folding cartons.

Is rigid box packaging better for luxury products?

Yes. Rigid boxes offer a premium feel with sturdy structure and high-end finishes—ideal for jewelry, electronics, or upscale cosmetics.

Are eco-friendly packaging materials available?

Absolutely. We offer recycled kraft, biodegradable corrugated, soy-based inks, FSC-certified board, and minimal-waste formats for sustainable custom packaging.

Can I customize packaging based on the product’s weight or fragility?

Yes. Material thickness, inserts, and padding can all be tailored to protect fragile, heavy, or irregularly shaped items.

How does packaging material affect my shipping costs?

Lighter materials (like kraft or paperboard) can reduce dimensional weight costs, while sturdier options help avoid product damage or returns.

Contact Box City to Build Your Custom Packaging Today

The right box material does more than protect your product. It enhances your customer’s experience and strengthens your brand. From elegant rigid boxes to cost-effective folding cartons, LA businesses have access to custom packaging options right here in Los Angeles.

Need help selecting the right materials? We’ll help you weigh cost, presentation, and environmental impact to find the perfect match. Contact Box City to help you choose the right materials for your product and your market.