Custom Snap Lock Bottom Boxes, Printed to Your Size

What is a snap lock bottom box?

It is a printed carton that closes at the bottom with four interlocking flaps. Each flap has a notched edge. When you fold them in sequence, the notches catch and the base stays shut.

Many packers call it a 1-2-3 bottom, because the fold goes in three quick steps. Most people learn it in under a minute.

The maker glues the side seam and ships the carton flat. You do the last fold at your packing table.

Snap lock base versus other base styles

Folding cartons close at the bottom in a few common ways. The right one depends on product weight and how fast you pack.

The snap lock sits between a simple tuck base and a pre-glued base. If your product is on the heavier side, look at pre-glued auto lock bottom boxes instead.

How do I choose the right size?

Measure your product at its widest and tallest points, with the cap or lid on. Those numbers become your inside length, width and height in inches.

Leave about 1/8 in of headroom so the tuck top closes without pressing on the product. Our guide on how to measure a box walks through each step.

Square or near-square bases lock most evenly. A very long, thin base can pop open, so talk to us if your item is shaped that way.

Which board works best for this style?

Paperboard is the usual pick. It scores cleanly along the flap edges and takes print well.

White board gives bright color and sharp small text, which helps on skincare and supplement cartons. Kraft board has a natural, earthy look that suits candles, tea and handmade goods.

Heavier products may need E flute, about 1/16 in (1.5 mm) thick. See our corrugated board flute guide to compare options.

Thick board is harder to fold by hand, so stay with paperboard unless weight calls for more.

What print and finish options are available?

Choose plain, one color, two color or full color CMYK print. Inside print is available too, which makes opening the box part of your brand.

Matte lamination feels soft, and gloss makes colors pop. Spot UV, foil stamping and embossing add a focal point to a logo.

Keep barcodes on a side panel. The base flaps overlap when locked, so artwork there gets broken up. Browse our custom printed boxes for more finish ideas.

How can I pack faster and protect the product?

Form a whole tray of bases in one session. Then fill and close them in a second pass. Batching turns the fold into a habit.

Set formed cartons upright so the bases stay put. If a base feels loose, push the last tab farther into its slot.

For jars or tins that might knock together, add a divider or cradle. Our folding carton inserts fit inside most snap lock sizes.

How do I order, and what does it cost?

Send us your product size, board choice and artwork by email or WhatsApp. You can also place your logo in Design Your Box. If you only have a logo, our designers lay it out for free.

Pricing starts from $0.30 a box. The exact figure comes in your quote by email within one business day, based on size, board and finish. Minimums are low and quoted per job. Start with a free quote request.

A free design proof shows the full flat carton, base flaps included. Once you approve it, production takes 4–6 business days. Shipping is free and tracked to any US address, and takes 2–3 business days.

Report misprints, damage or defects within 10 days with photos. We reprint or refund.