Cardboard Box variants
Teal makes custom cardboard box packaging across these formats. All start at 100-unit MOQ with free design help and free shipping included:
Custom cardboard box specs at a glance
| Spec | Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum order quantity | 100 units | 50 units available on some specialty cardboard boxes |
| Lead time | 7–10 business days | 5-day rush available on most variants |
| Per-unit price | From $0.65/unit at 250 MOQ | Pricing scales with quantity, finish, and material |
| Paper stock | Kraft, SBS, recycled, FSC-certified options | FSC certification on request |
| Finishes | Matte, gloss, soft-touch, soy ink, metallic foil, embossing, debossing | Soft-touch is most popular for retail |
| Shipping | Free US shipping on every order | — |
| Design help | Free designer included with every quote | Send artwork or sketch; designer builds the dieline |
| Sample policy | Free sample kit on request | Order via the sample kit page |
Custom Cardboard Boxes for Any Product
Cardboard boxes are the most versatile packaging solution available. From lightweight product cartons to heavy-duty shipping containers, custom cardboard packaging adapts to virtually any product, industry, and budget. At Teal Packaging, we manufacture custom printed cardboard boxes in any size, shape, and finish.
We work with two primary types of cardboard: paperboard (folding cartons, 300gsm to 600gsm, ideal for retail and product packaging) and corrugated cardboard (fluted construction for shipping and heavy items). If you need corrugated specifically, see our corrugated boxes page for detailed flute options.
Cardboard Box Styles
- Tuck-End Boxes: Straight or reverse tuck. The most common retail product box. Fast assembly, clean appearance.
- Auto-Lock Bottom: The base snaps into place automatically. Preferred for heavier products and retail displays.
- Seal-End Boxes: Both ends are sealed shut. Used for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
- Sleeve and Tray: A sliding sleeve over a tray. Premium feel for gift boxes and luxury products.
- Display Boxes: Counter or floor displays for retail environments. See display boxes.
- Die-Cut Custom Shapes: Any shape you can design, we can cut.
Understanding Cardboard Thickness (GSM)
GSM (grams per square meter) determines the strength and feel of your box:
- 300gsm: Lightweight, suitable for small products like cosmetics, tea boxes, and supplements.
- 350gsm: Standard weight for most retail products. Good rigidity and printability.
- 400gsm: Sturdy. Used for food packaging, electronics, and heavier items.
- 500-600gsm: Heavy-duty. Thick, rigid feel for premium and luxury packaging.
Printing Options
Full-color CMYK offset for runs over 500 units. Digital printing for short runs starting at 100 units. Both methods produce photographic quality results. Add spot UV, foil, embossing, or lamination for shelf impact. We print on white SBS (bright colors), kraft (natural), and coated paperboard.
Eco-Friendly Cardboard
Cardboard is inherently recyclable and biodegradable. Our paperboard contains 30% to 100% recycled content depending on grade. FSC-certified options available. We use soy-based and water-based inks. Your customers can recycle our boxes in standard curbside recycling programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cardboard and corrugated?
Cardboard (paperboard) is a solid, flat sheet material measured in GSM. Corrugated has a fluted (wavy) middle layer between flat liner boards, making it thicker and stronger for shipping. Cardboard is used for product/retail packaging; corrugated for shipping protection.
What is the cheapest cardboard box option?
300gsm kraft cardboard with single-color printing is the most economical option. Digital printing on short runs (100 to 300 units) keeps costs low for startups and small brands.
Can you make waterproof cardboard boxes?
We offer water-resistant coatings (PE lamination, aqueous coating) that protect against moisture and light water exposure. For fully waterproof requirements, we recommend corrugated with wax or plastic coating.
How do I get started with custom cardboard boxes?
Send us your product dimensions, desired quantity, and any design files you have. Our team will provide a free quote and design mockup within 24 hours. No design files? Our team creates them for free.
What is the minimum order?
100 boxes. No setup fees for standard orders. Free shipping anywhere in the US.
Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum order quantity for custom cardboard boxees at Teal?
Teal's standard MOQ for custom cardboard boxees is 100 units. Some specialty structures accept 50-unit orders. For trial runs under 100 units, request a quote and we'll flag whether the structure supports a smaller minimum.
How long does custom cardboard boxe production take?
Standard production is 7–10 business days after proof approval. A 5-day rush option is available on most cardboard boxe variants. Free US shipping is included on every order.
Are Teal's cardboard boxees FSC certified?
FSC-certified paper is available on every Teal cardboard boxe on request. We also offer recycled-content paperboards and biodegradable options for fully eco-friendly packaging programs.
What finishes work for custom cardboard boxees?
Soft-touch lamination, matte and gloss coatings, soy-based inks, metallic foil, holographic foil, embossing, debossing, and spot UV are all supported. Soft-touch is the most-requested finish for retail packaging.
How much do custom cardboard boxees cost?
Pricing depends on size, material, finishes, and quantity. Most cardboard boxees start at the price shown above at 250-unit MOQ. Request a quote for your exact specs and we'll respond within 4 business hours with a firm price.
Can I get a free sample before ordering?
Yes. Teal sends a free sample kit on request — order via the sample kit page. The kit includes paper stock samples, finish samples, and an example printed box so you can evaluate quality before committing to an order.
