What Is Corrugated Packaging?

Corrugated packaging offers versatility.

Corrugated packaging has been around for over a century, and is the preferred packaging material for most shippers. Used for transporting and storing goods from light bulbs to food items and toys, corrugated packaging is versatile, durable, lightweight and environmentally responsible.

Components and Types

Ninety percent of corrugated packaging is "single-walled."

Corrugated packaging has two main components: the flat sheet on the outsides called the "liner," and the wavy, fluted paper in between the liners called the "medium." These components can be stacked to create different strengths of packaging. For example, "triple wall" packing is made of three medium and four liners, and is used for very large or heavy products.

Cost-Effectiveness

Due to its light weight and high fill density, the cost of shipping corrugated packaging is lower than the cost of other containers. Many businesses have seen how their costs are minimized by using corrugated packaging for storage, shipping, display and advertising.

Environmentally Friendly

Corrugated packaging can be used many times and is recyclable.

Not only is corrugated packaging made from recycled materials and renewable sources, but due to its durability it can be reused many times. It is also the most-recycled packaging material, providing fibers that will be converted into new corrugated packaging.

References

• CPA: Responsibility Starts Here
• Earth Answers: How Are Corrugated Boxes Made?

Resources

• Corrugated Packaging
• Corrugated Packaging Alliance: Corrugated Packaging Life-cycle Assessment Q & A