Folding cartons
A folding carton is a printed paperboard box that ships flat and folds into shape at your bench, the standard retail box for cosmetics, supplements, candles and food. We make 60 carton styles, minimums from 200 to 500 units, in 8 to 18 business days after you approve a free digital proof.
All folding cartons
Which one do you need?
| If you need | Start with | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A light retail product | Straight tuck end carton | both ends tuck the same way, clean front panel |
| Faster hand packing | Reverse tuck end carton | flaps tuck in opposite directions |
| Heavier contents | Auto lock bottom carton | snap lock base, folded in one motion |
| High packing volumes | Crash lock bottom carton | pre-glued base springs into shape |
| Show the product | Window carton | die-cut opening backed with clear PET film |
| A tamper-evident seal | Seal end carton | glued ends that tear on opening |
Still between two? Send the product and its size and we will recommend a style with your quote, or ask Maya in chat. The box size calculator and free dielines help you size it first.
Questions about folding cartons
Which carton closure should I choose?
Use a tuck end for light products and easy reopening, an auto lock bottom when the contents are heavier, a crash lock bottom when you pack in volume, and a seal end when you want the carton to show if it has been opened. The guide to auto lock vs crash lock bottoms covers the tradeoffs in detail.
What paperboard do folding cartons use?
Most cartons run on 16pt to 24pt SBS (solid bleached sulfate) or natural kraft board. Small items like lip balm use 16pt; candles and heavier jars move up to 20pt or 24pt. The product page lists the board for each style.
Do folding cartons ship flat?
Yes. Cartons ship flat and are folded when you pack them, which keeps freight and storage costs low. Crash lock cartons are pre-glued so they open in one squeeze.
What is the minimum order for folding cartons?
Minimums run from 200 to 500 units depending on the style. Each product page shows its own minimum.
Ready to price your folding cartons?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.