Reverse tuck end carton
18pt SBS200 minimum · 10 to 14 business daysA reverse tuck end carton is a folding carton where the top flap tucks toward the back and the bottom flap tucks toward the front, so it closes quickly on a filling line and opens from either end. We produce them on 18pt SBS from 200 units in 10 to 14 business days after proof. Most run between 2 by 2 by 4 and 4 by 3 by 6 inches.
When to choose it, and when not to
Choose a reverse tuck end when the carton is filled by hand or on a semi-automatic line and speed matters. Because the flaps tuck in opposite directions, the operator never turns the carton to close it, which saves a second or two per unit and adds up over a run of a few thousand. It is the everyday carton for tubes, jars, small bottles and boxed accessories, and it costs nothing extra over a straight tuck.
Choose a straight tuck end carton when the front panel must be unbroken, because on a reverse tuck the bottom flap seam sits on the face side and can cut across artwork. Choose an auto lock bottom carton for anything over about 12 ounces, since a tucked bottom will push open under weight in a shipping carton.
Specifications
| Board | 16, 18 or 24pt SBS, or kraft |
|---|---|
| Offset CMYK or digital, one color, Pantone match | |
| Finish | Matte or gloss aqueous, soft-touch or gloss lamination, spot UV, foil |
| Closure | Opposing tuck flaps, friction lock or slit lock |
| Inserts | Optional die-cut paperboard cradle or platform |
| Tuck direction | Top tucks to the back, bottom tucks to the front |
| Minimum | 200 units |
| Lead time | 10 to 14 business days after proof |
| Ships | Flat, glued, in bundles of 50 |
| Sizes we run | 2 x 2 x 4 in 2.5 x 2.5 x 5 in 3 x 3 x 6 in 4 x 3 x 6 in any size from 1.5 x 1.5 x 2 to 12 x 8 x 12 in |
Materials that suit it
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a reverse tuck and a straight tuck carton?
On a reverse tuck the top flap folds toward the back panel and the bottom flap folds toward the front, so the two closures face opposite ways. On a straight tuck both flaps fold the same way. The reverse tuck is faster to close on a line. The straight tuck keeps the front panel clean because no flap seam crosses it. Both use the same board and cost the same.
Why would I pick a reverse tuck over a straight tuck?
Speed on the line and a slightly firmer bottom. When you fill a reverse tuck you push the bottom flap in, drop the product, and push the top flap in without turning the carton. Over 5,000 units that matters. The bottom tuck also faces the front panel, which makes it easier to seat with a thumb.
Does the bottom seam show on the front?
Yes. The bottom flap edge sits on the front panel, about a quarter inch in from the base. On a solid color it reads as a fine line. If your artwork carries an image across that area, ask us for a straight tuck instead, or we move the artwork up by half an inch on the proof.
Which board weight should I choose?
18pt SBS for most products up to about 12 ounces, which covers nearly every tube, jar and small bottle. 16pt for very small light items such as lip balm or a single sachet. 24pt when the carton holds glass over 12 ounces or when you want a carton that feels close to a rigid box in the hand.
Can I add a friction lock or slit lock to the flaps?
Yes. A friction lock is a small shoulder on the tuck flap that grips the carton wall so the flap does not slide out on its own. A slit lock adds two short slits so a tab on the flap locks through. Either one adds nothing to the lead time. We recommend a friction lock on anything that ships inside a mailer.
What is the minimum order for a reverse tuck end carton?
200 units, and reorders carry the same minimum. Lead time is 10 to 14 business days after you approve the free digital proof.
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Ready to price your reverse tuck end carton?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Your digital proof follows, usually within one business day of your artwork. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.