Custom Corrugated Carrier Boxes for Drinks and To-Go Orders

What are corrugated carrier boxes?

You pick up a carrier box by a handle that is part of the pack itself. The grip is die-cut into the board, so there is no string, ribbon or plastic part to source.

Corrugated board is stiff enough to keep cups upright and bottles apart. It also adds a thin layer of insulation, which takes the edge off a hot cup.

If you want a closed retail box with a grip, look at our printed boxes with built-in handles.

Who buys carrier boxes in the US?

Coffee shops, tea bars and smoothie counters buy the most. A branded cup carrier gets seen all the way down the sidewalk and across the office.

Craft breweries, cideries and soda makers use bottle carriers at tasting rooms and farmers markets. Bakeries and party stores like gable top boxes for cookies, cupcakes and birthday treats.

Restaurants use carriers for catering drops and curbside pickup. Pet shops and toy sellers add a window and sell the box as a gift.

Which flute works best for a carrier?

Cup carriers usually use E flute (about 1/16 in) or B flute (about 1/8 in). Both fold cleanly and keep a crisp cut-out.

Bottles and groceries put more load on the handle, so B or C flute (about 5/32 in) is the safer pick. Our flute guide for corrugated board explains the differences.

Can carrier boxes be printed?

Yes, and most orders are. The tall handle panel suits a logo, while the sides can show a menu, an Instagram handle or a flavor name.

You can print one color, two color or full color CMYK on kraft or white board, inside and outside. Kraft with one dark ink is a popular low-cost look for coffee. Full color suits party and gift boxes.

For finishes, choose from embossing, foil stamping, spot UV and matte or gloss lamination. Place your art in Design Your Box and our designers will fit it around the grip. A free proof comes before anything is printed.

How do staff set up a carrier?

Store carriers flat until you need them. To open one, push the base out, fold the dividers in and lift the handle until the locks click.

Place the heaviest items first and keep the load balanced on both sides of the grip. A lopsided carrier tips and strains one side of the handle.

Press lids on firmly before cups go in. The carrier holds the cup, not the lid.

During a rush, keep a small stack folded ahead of time. Refill it when the line is short.

What mistakes should I avoid when ordering?

Cup sizes differ between brands. A 12 oz cup from one supplier can be wider than another. Measure the exact cups on your counter.

Do not overload a light carrier. One built for four coffees is not meant for four glass bottles.

Keep artwork clear of the handle cut-out. Once the hole is punched, art that reaches into the grip area can look messy.

Store bundles on a dry shelf away from sinks and steam. Damp board softens and loses stiffness.

Can a carrier replace a plastic bag?

For many shops it can. A carrier keeps cups and bottles upright, which a bag cannot, and it gives you a printed surface at the same time.

Corrugated board goes into paper and cardboard recycling once food and drink spills are cleaned off. Browse our eco friendly box options for more plastic-free packs.