Shipping Boxes Cut to the Inside Size You Choose

What is a custom shipping box?

A shipping box is a corrugated carton that can travel on its own. Two flat liners sandwich a fluted center layer, and that wavy layer gives the walls their stiffness.

We make two main shapes. The slotted carton has flaps on top and bottom, and you seal it with tape. The mailer folds up with a hinged lid and locks with tabs.

Both arrive as flat sheets. The creases are pressed in at the factory, so every box folds square and the walls stand straight. For other outer cartons, browse the corrugated and shipping box range.

Which board should I choose for shipping boxes?

Two liners enclose one fluted layer in single wall board. C flute is about 5/32 in (4 mm) and suits most everyday packages. B flute is about 1/8 in (3 mm) and prints a little sharper.

Double wall BC flute is about 1/4 in (7 mm). Pick it for heavy items, glass, or boxes that sit at the bottom of a stack.

Still unsure? Read about single wall versus double wall boxes for real examples.

Can I print on shipping boxes?

Yes. Plain kraft costs least, and many sellers just add a shipping label. If you want your name on the box, we print one color, two color or full color CMYK.

Mailer styles can carry print inside too, so buyers see your message the moment they open the lid. Finishes include uncoated kraft, matte or gloss lamination, spot UV, foil stamping and embossing.

Place your logo and artwork with Design Your Box. Our designers help with layout for free, and you approve a free proof before printing.

A one color logo on kraft is often the best value. It reads clearly and suits a natural, unbleached look.

Should I pick a slotted carton or a mailer?

The slotted carton is the workhorse. It packs fast, handles deep items, and seals with a strip of tape along the seam.

The mailer suits flatter goods and gift orders. It locks shut without tape and looks neat when it lands on a doorstep.

For heavy cases of jars or cans, a double wall slotted carton is usually the safer pick. Read more about regular slotted containers if that style interests you.

Some businesses use both. They ship bulk and wholesale orders in cartons, and send single retail orders in a printed mailer. The same artwork can sit on each, so the two still look like one brand.

Not sure which fits? Send us a photo of your products and how you pack them now. We will recommend whichever style leaves the least empty room.

What mistakes should I avoid when ordering?

The most common slip is sending outside measurements. The board eats into the space, and the product ends up too tight.

Another is ordering a box much larger than needed. Carriers price by size as well as weight, so empty space adds cost to every package. Our tips on the cheapest way to ship boxes explain how this works.

Last, some buyers choose single wall for goods kept in tall stacks. Will other cartons be stacked on yours? Then ask us about double wall.

How long until my shipping boxes arrive?

Production takes 4 to 6 business days after you approve the proof. Then your order ships with free tracking to any US address and arrives in 2 to 3 business days.

Boxes come flat and bundled, so they take far less shelf room than built cartons. You can keep a few months of supply in a small corner.

Have a launch date or a busy season coming? Tell us when you ask for your quote, and we will plan the proof stage around your schedule. You can read the full details on our shipping information page.