How to choose the right box for shipping
Five questions to ask before you order boxes, so you spend the right amount and your product arrives intact.
Updated 16 October 2026
Start from the product
Before thinking about the box, look at what goes inside:
- dimensions: length, width and height at the widest points;
- weight: a pair of shoes and ten glass jars do not need the same board;
- fragility: glass, ceramics and bottles need more protection;
- journey: hand delivery, courier or pallet.
Choose the right size
Box dimensions are always given as inside dimensions, in centimetres. Measure the product and leave a little room: about 1 cm extra per side is usually enough, more if you need to add padding.
A box of the right size leaves less empty space: you need less filler (bubble wrap, paper, polystyrene) and the product moves less in transit.
If you are not sure where to start, in Design your box Tomi asks for your product dimensions and suggests a box. All the details are in the guide How to measure a box.
Choose the board
Shipping boxes are almost always made of corrugated board. Double wall is stronger and handles medium to heavy loads; single wall is fine for light products and packaging. The differences are explained in Single or double wall?
Choose the style
A regular slotted box (RSC) is closed with packing tape and is the most common box for shipping. A self-assembly box folds together without tape or glue and is ideal when opening the parcel matters too. We compare them in Slotted or self-assembly box?
Fragile items and food
- For bottles there are cardboard dividers that keep them apart, and the double protection box, one box inside another.
- Food must already be sealed in its own packaging (bottle, jar, bag): the box is the outer packaging, with no direct contact with the food.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum order?
Plain kraft regular slotted boxes in double wall are made to measure from 50 pieces. With single wall, a logo, a colour or for self-assembly boxes the minimum is 100 pieces.
How long does delivery take?
Plain kraft slotted boxes with no logo or colour are delivered in 3–6 working days. For other boxes we give you the lead time in the quote.
Can I see the box before production?
Yes: before every job we make a sample, so you can check size and quality.
Found the box you need?
Draw it with your own dimensions in Design your box and get a quote, or tell us what you need to pack or ship.