Need to ship your products? Choosing the right shipping boxes is essential to make sure that your products arrive safely while keeping the budget in check. Two popular box types in the shipping industry are 200# boxes and 32 ECT boxes. Both are engineered with particular packaging solutions in mind, and their strength is also tested differently. Which boxes do you really need? Let’s explore them further!
200# Boxes vs. 32 ECT Boxes
When deciding on the right shipping boxes, it’s best to start understanding these two types of successful boxes. In the shipping industry, 200# boxes are marked for burst strength, while 32 ECT boxes are famous for stacking strength. They may look similar outside, but each was created for different purposes. What makes one stronger than another is how that strength is put to the test and the type of product you want to ship.
Understanding the Strength Testing Methods
In brief, box strength is a matter of how well a box resists pressure. The Mullen Test and the Edge Crush Test (ECT) help categorize corrugated cardboard and give it a rating such as 200# or 32 ECT.
How are these tests conducted and what do the results mean in the shipping box durability?
The Mullen Test
The Mullen Test applies pressure over a concentrated box area and measures how much pressure (pounds per square inch) it can withstand. The test result determines the internal pressure a box can withstand before it bursts. A 200# rating means that the cardboard has a burst strength of 200 PSI.
Edge Crush Test (ECT)
The Edge Crush Test (ECT) determines the pressure a box can withstand when force is applied vertically to its edges. A 32 ECT rating indicates that the stacking strength of a box can withstand 32 pounds of pressure per inch on its edge before it collapses, which is necessary if you need to stack the boxes during shipping or storage.
Pros & Cons of 200# Boxes
When shipping heavy products that need extra protection, 200# boxes are the best option. These boxes are produced for heavy-duty shipping and are constructed to safeguard fragile products from pressure or impact.
Pros:
- High burst resistance for fragile or sharp products
- Perfect for long-distance or overseas shipments
Cons:
- Weighs more, making shipping more expensive
- More material is required, which adds to the environmental impact of packaging
Pros & Cons of 32 ECT Boxes
If you need a lightweight and cost-effective packaging, 32 ECT boxes are a wiser option. These boxes provide sufficient protection for products that are not extremely heavy or fragile. Ultimately, they will lower your shipping costs.
Pros:
- Perfect for lightweight products, such as apparel, books, or electronics
- Cost-effective for bulk shipping
- Environmentally friendly as there is less material being used
Cons:
- Lower burst strength than 200# boxes
- Not ideal under harsh handling and extreme conditions
Choosing the Right Box for Your Needs
Choosing between 200# boxes and 32 ECT boxes depends on your shipping needs, product protection, and budget. Here, you should consider what kind of journey your package will be on—will it be stacked, or go long distances?
Here are some factors you would want to consider before shipping:
- Do you need to ship heavy or fragile products?
Consider using 200# boxes to ship heavy, valuable, or fragile goods. On the other hand, 32 ECT boxes will be better for shipping light, non-breakable products.
- Will your box be stacked during shipping or handling?
Think about your warehouse or carrier’s stacking and handling practices.
- Is cost a main concern you have?
Think about how essential cost efficiency is for your business.
Industry Use Cases
Each industry is unique in terms of packaging needs. Some need the durability of 200# boxes, while others excel in the efficiency of 32 ECT boxes. Let’s look at the various industries that use each type of shipping box.
Industry applications of 200# boxes:
- Manufacturing: Shipping metal heavy-duty components or tools
- Pharmaceuticals: Shipping sensitive medical supplies
- Glass & Ceramics: Safe delivery of fragile items
Industry applications of 32 ECT boxes:
- E-commerce: Shipping clothing, gadgets, or accessories
- Retail and Wholesale: Shipping packaged consumer goods
- Subscription Box Services: Lightweight monthly items
When to Use Each Box Type?
Both 200# boxes and 32 ECT boxes are highly different regarding strength rating, material consumption, and performance under pressure. So, when to use each box type?
Check out a comparison table below to make it easier!
| Comparison | 200# Boxes | ECT Boxes |
| Test Method | Mullen Test | Edge Crush Test (ECT) |
| Box strength comparison | Protective against puncture and crushing | Excellent stacking strength for performance against vertical load |
| Ideal Products | Fragile goods or heavy products | Lightweight products |
| Packaging Cost Analysis | More costly to manufacture and transport | Cost-effective for short-distance or bulk shipping |
| Environmental Impact | Require more raw material, which will make bigger carbon footprint | Less material, more environmentally friendly |
| Best Use Cases | Industrial, manufacturing, or fragile product shipping | E-commerce, consumer products, or regular retail products |
By analyzing these differences, you can select the right box type based on your product’s weight, fragility, and shipping conditions. At the same time, you can make a balance between cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.
In Summary
Undoubtedly, both 200# and 32 ECT boxes offer valuable packaging solutions depending on what you’re shipping and how it’s handled. While 200# boxes shine in durability and product protection, 32 ECT boxes are more affordable and efficient for lightweight products. In the end, understanding your shipping needs, cost efficiency, and the environmental impact of packaging will help guide your box selection.
Contact Dream Custom Boxes today to get the right shipping boxes for your business!
FAQs
What’s the difference between 200# and 32 ECT boxes?
200# boxes utilize the Mullen Test and are graded according to burst strength, while 32 ECT boxes use the Edge Crush Test and are rated according to stacking strength.
How do I choose the right box for my shipping needs?
You need to consider the weight and fragility of your product, as well as how it will be treated in the box. Choose 200# boxes for heavy-duty use, and 32 ECT boxes for standard shipping.
Are 32 ECT boxes eco-friendly?
Yes. They are lighter in weight, which leads to a lower carbon footprint, making them a better option for environmentally friendly packaging.
What industries commonly use 200# boxes?
Manufacturing, pharmacies, and companies that ship heavy or delicate items prefer 200# boxes for their extra strength and reliability.
