What You Need to Know About the Characteristics of Corrugated Cardboard?

Corrugated cardboard is all around us. You see it in delivery boxes, shop displays, food packs, and even furniture. It is light, strong, and good for the environment. That’s why many businesses choose it for packaging. 

It keeps products safe, is easy to carry, and doesn’t cost much. You can also recycle it, which makes it even better. But what makes corrugated cardboard different from regular cardboard? Why is it so strong and functional? 

In this blog, we’ll explain it all in simple words. You’ll learn what corrugated cardboard is, what it looks like, the types it comes in, and why people use it for packaging and displays. 

By the end, you’ll know why it’s one of the best and most trusted materials used today, Here are many types of packaging materials, each for specific use.

Want to know what the characteristics of corrugated cardboard are and what it looks like? Let’s get started!

What is Corrugated Cardboard?

It is essential to know what this material is before you learn about the characteristics of corrugated cardboard. It is a robust and lightweight material that comes from paper. It has three layers: a flat inside liner, a flat outside liner, and a wavy layer in the middle, which is called fluting. 

These are bonded through adhesive into a rigid material. The fluted middle layer gives strength to the cardboard and acts as a shock absorber to protect the items inside. You might have seen corrugated cardboard in use for brown shipping boxes, food delivery packs, and commercial store displays. 

It feels stiff to the touch but is light in weight, which makes it very convenient for carrying and, thus, very feasible for packaging purposes. It protects your items in the course of shipping without increasing the weight significantly. This is such a simple but ingenious design that it actually sees so many people using corrugated cardboard daily.

What Does Corrugated Cardboard Look Like?

One of the unique characteristics of corrugated cardboard is that it looks like a paper sandwich. The corrugated cardboard has smooth, flat top and bottom layers with a wavering layer in the centre called a flute. 

When a personalised cardboard box is torn, and flutes are seen right in the centre, they appear as tiny waves or zigzags. These flutes give strength and shock resistance to the cardboard. Corrugated cardboard is typically brown, although it may be white or have colours printed on it. Many companies print their logos, product names, or instructions on it.

Corrugated Cardboard Characteristics and Uses

The best thing about corrugated cardboard is its lightness and flexibility. It has an inner layer of fluting. This layer helps in absorbing shock and protects goods during transit. 

Although the material itself is light in weight, it can easily secure heavy products. The best feature is that they are budget-friendly. You can cut them to the size or shape you want. You can easily fold and store it. 

Another characteristic is that this material is entirely recyclable. So, it is entirely environmentally friendly. To summarise:

Characteristics of Corrugated Cardboard

• Strong but Light
• Cushioning and Protection
• Easy to Cut and Shape
• Cost-Effective
• Eco-Friendly Packaging
• Printable Surface

Types of Corrugated Cardboard Explained

Corrugated cardboard comes in different types. Each one has a different structure and use.

Single Face Corrugated

This type has one one-liner and a fluted layer. It’s bendable and wraps around items. It’s used as inner protection.

Single Wall Corrugated

This is the most common. It has two liners with one fluted layer in between. It’s used for regular boxes and display stands.

Double Wall Corrugated

It has three liners and two fluted layers. It’s used for heavy or fragile items. It holds more weight and gives extra cushioning.

Triple Wall Corrugated

This is the strongest. It has four liners and three fluted layers. It’s used for large machines, appliances, or bulk items.

Flute Profiles: A, B, C, and E

The fluting inside the cardboard can be tall or short. This changes how it works.

• A Flute: Big waves, great cushioning
• B Flute: Smaller waves, strong and compact
• C Flute: Common in the U.S., balanced strength
• E Flute: Very small waves, smooth surface, great for printing

Sometimes, types are combined. For example, the BC flute has one B flute and one C flute. This gives both strength and printability.

Benefits of Corrugated Boxes in Packaging Benefits of using corrugated cardboard in packaging

Using corrugated boxes for packaging gives many advantages that add to the characteristics of corrugated cardboard:

• Protects your product: It keeps items safe from pressure, drops, or stacking.
• Saves money: It’s cheap to make, ship, and store.
• Supports branding: Custom designs and logos help promote your product.
• Fits all shapes and sizes: You can get it made to fit any item.
• Safe for the planet: It’s recyclable and biodegradable.

Cardboard Display Stands and Marketing

Cardboard display stands are used extensively by the retail sector. These stands are lightweight, easily assembled, and give a clean and professional appearance. You can see them in supermarkets, shopping malls, and events. 

These stands hold products, display prices, and attract potential customers. The best part is that they are portable and can be stored flat. 

Since they are cheaper and can be produced in any shape and colour, these have been popularly employed by brands for new launches, promo offers, or seasonal sales. Simple yet chic, very handy in retail. 

Custom and Personalised Cardboard Boxes

Custom cardboard boxes are often required by the retail industry. Size, shape, colour, and design can be decided by the buyer. Packaging that meets the specific requirements will enhance the product’s value for recognition.

Customised cardboard boxes are perfect for gifts, subscription boxes, or high-end products. They provide that special touch for the customers, making them remember your brand.

Final Thoughts

Corrugated cardboard is a wise choice. It’s strong, light, eco-friendly, and cheap. It protects your products and supports your brand.

From large boxes to fancy displays, it works in many ways. You can print on it, shape it, or fold it flat.

That’s why so many businesses trust corrugated cardboard.