Paperboard is a versatile, eco-friendly material that is useful for almost all sorts of packaging needs as they are light in weight and flexible. It’s been a staple in the packaging world for ages, bringing loads of benefits for both makers and users.
Paperboard is thicker and more durable than regular paper, which makes it an excellent choice for packaging applications where stability and sturdiness are required. Paperboard packaging does not only keep your stuff safe when it’s being shipped, but it also helps brands pop on store shelves, making them easy to spot.
Types of Paperboard and Their Uses
The world of packaging needs strong and reliable materials such as paperboard to create a variety of packaging designs. Whether it’s a basic tuck carton or a high-end, sculpted package that requires a luxury look and fascination, paper board can do it all.
Paper board comes in different grades, each with its own set of qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. Let us have a look at each type and its characteristics.
SOLID BLEACHED SULFATE (SBS)
SBS, or solid bleached sulfate, is a special type of paperboard that is white and smooth. It is perfect for printing fancy designs because it has a layer of clay on top which makes it a top pick for packaging food and luxury items. SBS is used for packing the following products:
- Makeup and beauty products
- Foods that need to stay wet or frozen
- Tobacco products
- Dairy items like butter, ice cream, and milk
- Meat packaging
- Fresh baked goods that spoil quickly
- Medicines
COATED UNBLEACHED KRAFT (CUK)
CUK, or coated unbleached kraft, is a type of paper board made from natural brown fibers. It is mostly made from softwoods like southern pine, with a bit of hardwood mixed in. The top layer is coated with clay to make it smooth and white for printing. CUK is strong because of the long, tough pine fibers. It’s often used for:
- Beer and soda containers
- Strong retail packaging for things like hardware and laundry detergent
COATED RECYCLED PAPERBOARD
This type of paperboard is crafted from recycled fibers, which come from places like paper factories and used materials from consumers. It usually has a layer of white fibers on top and a clay coating to make printing easier. If you’re making packaging for these products, consider using recycled board:
- Laundry detergents and soaps
- Dry bakery items
- Paper goods such as tissues
- Dry foods like cereals and pasta
- Hardware products
NON-BENDING CHIPBOARD
This thick paper board is made from recycled newspapers and old corrugated boxes. It’s commonly used as the main material for sturdy boxes that don’t fold or collapse during shipping. After shaping the chipboard into the desired box form, it’s covered with a paper layer that can be decorated in many ways, like printing or adding foil. These strong and pretty boxes are a popular choice for fancy items like:
- Makeup and Cosmetics
- Candies and chocolates
- Gadgets
- Jewelry
Paperboard Packaging
Paperboard packaging comes in various forms, each tailored to specific packaging needs and requirements:
Folding Cartons
Folding cartons are the most commonly used type of paperboard packaging. They are made from flat sheets of paper board that are folded and formed into a box-like structure. These cartons are commonly used in industries such as:
- Food and beverage
- Pharmaceuticals
- Cosmetics
- Consumer goods
Rigid Boxes
Rigid boxes, also known as rigid set-up boxes. They are made from thicker and sturdier grades of paperboard. These boxes provide high protection and a quality look to your products. These boxes are used for luxury or high-end products like:
- Electronics
- Perfumes
- Jewelry.
Tubes and Cores
Paperboard tubes and cores are cylindrical structures made from spiral-wound layers of paper board. They are commonly used for packaging products like:
- Posters
- Textiles
- Industrial materials
Blister Cards
Blister cards combine paperboard with a plastic blister to securely hold and display small items such as:
- Toys
- Hardware
- Personal care products
Benefits of Paperboard Packaging
Eco-Friendly
Paperboard packaging is good for the environment as it comes from renewable sources. It can be recycled, and it breaks down naturally, which is great for people and businesses who care about the planet.
Customization
Paperboard offers a variety of customization which means you can print on them, add textures, or put shiny finishes to make them look fancy. Brands can make their packaging look unique and special, showing off who they are and what they stand for by choosing paper board.
Protection
Paperboard is light in weight but it is strong enough to keep things safe. Packaging made from paper board can handle different weather conditions and bumps along the way, so products get to customers in perfect shape.
Affordability
Paperboard packaging is cheaper than other kinds like plastic or metal. Due to its lightweight, the shipping costs are less, and it’s easy to make, which saves money during production. It is good for businesses looking to save some cash while still having great-looking packaging.
Conclusion
In a world where more people care about the environment, paperboard packaging is becoming popular. It’s great because it’s versatile, eco-friendly, affordable, and looks good too. Brands love it because it helps them be more eco-friendly and still make packaging that customers love. This versatile packaging solution is all set to help bring new and innovative ideas to life.
FAQs
What is a paperboard?
Paperboard is a thick, paper-based material. It is typically more than 0.012 inches in thickness. It can be composed of a single layer or multiple layers of paper laminated together.
What is Paperboard Made Of?
Paperboard is mostly made from wood pulp, which comes from trees. It can also include recycled paper fibers. The specific mix and treatment of these materials give paper board its unique properties.
What is Paperboard Used For?
Paperboard is a versatile material. It is used in many different ways such as in packaging like boxes and cartons, food and drink containers, book covers, greeting cards, and various other products.
Can I print on paperboard?
Yes, paperboard is an excellent material for printing. Its smooth surface allows for high-quality, vibrant prints, making it ideal for custom packaging and other products.
What is the Difference Between Cardboard and Paperboard?
Cardboard and paperboard are not the same. Paperboard is a broad term for thick, paper-based materials. Cardboard is a type of paper board that is typically corrugated (with wavy layers) for added strength and stiffness. Always remember, all cardboards are paperboard but not all paperboards are cardboard.
