Why Are Cardboard Boxes Good for Packaging?
Firstly, cardboard is durable. It’s made from wood pulp and fibres, which are very strong. This means that it doesn’t tear easily and it’s rigid, which are important qualities in a packaging material. Cardboard is also a good insulator
Ever since M. Treverton & Son invented cardboard in 1817, it has been a staple in packaging, initially for lightweight items. In 1856, corrugated cardboard was patented and was first used to make tall hats before its protective qualities for packaging were recognized. By 1890, the advent of pre-cut cardboard marked the beginning of the cardboard box era.
Cardboard has been a commonly used packaging material for over two centuries. But why has it remained so popular? What properties and benefits make it particularly well-suited for packaging? Read on to find out more.
What are the properties of cardboard?
The properties of cardboard are the reasons why it's such a good material to use for packaging.
Firstly, cardboard is durable. It's made from wood pulp and fibres, which are very strong. This means that it doesn't tear easily and it's rigid, which are important qualities in a packaging material. Cardboard is also a good insulator. The corrugated layer traps air, which means the items in your cardboard box are better protected from the effects of high or low temperatures. Finally, even though cardboard is very strong, it's also very light.
Six Reasons Why Cardboard is an Excellent Packaging Material
1. Durability:
Cardboard is known for its durability and longevity. It resists tearing, making it ideal for reuse. Cardboard boxes can withstand multiple uses while retaining their strength.
2. Sustainability:
Cardboard box packaging is highly sustainable. It is recyclable, contributing to waste reduction and forest conservation. Recycling cardboard also saves energy compared to producing new materials from scratch.
3. Cost-effectiveness:
Cardboard is a cost-effective packaging solution, especially when purchased in bulk. Bulk purchases often come with additional discounts. Moreover, cardboard's lightweight nature reduces shipping costs compared to heavier materials.
4. Customizable
Cardboard packaging offers complete customization options. Through cutting and folding techniques, it can take on various shapes and sizes, while also providing the canvas for printing. Essentially, cardboard can be tailored to meet any specific requirements or preferences.
This feature is particularly advantageous for businesses aiming to impress their customers with packaging that is unique, bespoke, or personalized to reflect their brand identity.
5. Versatile
Although cardboard packaging maintains a sturdy structure, it possesses the flexibility to be folded flat. This characteristic enhances its versatility, facilitating easy storage and transportation. Consequently, a significant number of cardboard boxes can be efficiently packed onto pallets when flat-packed, maximizing space utilization compared to assembled boxes.
6. Durable
Furthermore, cardboard packaging exhibits exceptional strength. This attribute ensures reliable protection for the enclosed items during transit, reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, its robust nature contributes to a prolonged lifespan, ensuring sustained durability over time.
Why is cardboard packaging better than plastic?
Cardboard packaging offers numerous advantages compared to plastic packaging, with the foremost being its environmental friendliness. Unlike plastic, cardboard is easily recyclable or reusable and does not introduce harmful toxins into the environment. It decomposes relatively quickly, whereas plastic can linger for an extended period without breaking down and may not always be recyclable.
Additionally, the production of plastic requires significantly more energy compared to cardboard, especially when considering recycled cardboard as opposed to virgin materials. This highlights cardboard's role as a more sustainable packaging option, contributing to reduced energy consumption and environmental impact.
