Choosing the correct packaging board is a balance of performance, appearance, and cost. The substrate you select defines both your brand’s first impression and your logistical efficiency.
Quick Comparison
- SBS (Solid Bleached Sulfate): Best for premium print + retail shelf presence
- Corrugated: Best for shipping strength + e-commerce performance
- Rigid Setup Boxes: Best for luxury unboxing + high perceived value
1) Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS) Board
SBS is a premium-grade paperboard made from virgin fibers and coated for print quality. It’s known for a smooth white surface and strong print fidelity—ideal for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and premium food packaging.
- Excellent graphic quality and clean white interiors
- High stiffness and foldability
- Lower crush resistance than corrugated (not ideal for heavy stacking)
2) Corrugated Board
Corrugated board is a fluted inner medium sandwiched between flat liners. It provides cushioning and stacking strength—making it the go-to for shipping cartons, e-commerce mailers, and subscription boxes.
- Strong protective performance for distribution
- Multiple flute options (e.g., E-flute thin to BC-flute double wall)
- Can be upgraded aesthetically (e.g., litho-lam corrugated)
3) Rigid Setup Boxes
Rigid boxes (“turned edge boxes”) combine heavy chipboard with wrapped paper exteriors. They’re non-collapsible and deliver an upscale unboxing experience—often used in luxury, electronics, and gift packaging.
- Unmatched tactile appeal and presentation
- Most expensive per unit (best for premium/luxury use cases)
- Options: magnetic closures, foil stamping, custom inserts
Key Considerations When Choosing
- Product Weight & Protection: Heavier items benefit from corrugated or rigid structures.
- Print Quality: SBS delivers photographic results; corrugated/rigid can mimic with laminates.
- Cost & Volume: SBS fits mid-volume retail; corrugated suits high-volume shipping; rigid fits luxury/limited runs.
- Sustainability Goals: All three are recyclable; SBS/corrugated can include recycled content; rigid often uses FSC-certified wraps.
Real-World Examples
Cosmetics (SBS)
A California cosmetics startup moved from plastic tubes to SBS cartons with soft-touch coating—reducing plastic use by 85%.
Subscription (Corrugated)
A coffee brand upgraded to E-flute corrugated mailers with soy-based inks and internal print—cutting breakage by 12%.
Luxury Tech (Rigid)
A luxury accessory line adopted rigid magnetic boxes with molded pulp inserts—boosting perceived value and gift appeal.
Conclusion & Next Steps
No single board type fits all. SBS wins in premium shelf presence, corrugated leads in logistics efficiency, and rigid reigns in luxury branding.
Influence Packaging helps clients compare samples, perform drop tests, and align packaging choices with brand strategy.
Want Help Choosing the Right Board?
We’ll recommend the best substrate and structure based on your product, channel, sustainability goals, and budget.
Email: info@influencepackaging.com