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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Folding Cartons That Work Hard and Look Good

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Folding Cartons That Work Hard and Look Good

Let’s be real in the world of product packaging, folding cartons are the unsung heroes. They’re the silent ambassadors on retail shelves, the first touchpoint customers have with your product, and the last thing they toss into the recycling bin (hopefully). But not all cartons are created equal.

At Altro Labels, we know packaging like we know a good Pantone match: intimately. Whether you’re launching a new product or levelling up an old fave, here’s your guide to choosing folding cartons that check every box structurally, visually, and sustainably.

1. Start with Your Product (AKA: What Are We Even Putting in This Box?)

Before diving into finishes and folds, let’s zoom out. Your product’s weight, shape, and fragility play a huge role in determining the structure of your carton. A delicate skincare serum? Needs internal support. A set of wax melts? Probably more forgiving. We’ll help you figure out whether you need a tuck top, snap-lock bottom, or something entirely custom.

Pro tip: Always consider the user experience, how it opens, reseals, or stacks matters just as much as how it looks.

2. Paperboard Picks: SBS, CKB, FBB… What Does It All Mean?

Let’s break it down. At Altro, we offer three main types of folding carton board:

  • SBS (Solid Bleached Sulfate): Clean, smooth, bright white inside and out, ideal for high-end print finishes and a luxury look.
  • CKB (Coated Kraft Back): A bit more rugged, with a natural kraft interior, great for that eco-chic, organic aesthetic.
  • FBB (Folding Box Board): Contains some recycled content, with a balance of sustainability and performance. Available in various calipers like 18 pt, 20 pt, and 22 pt.

Looking for fully recycled? We got you. We can special order Neenah board, which is made from 100% recycled fiber. Just note it comes at a premium price point. Think of it as the couture option of the packaging world.

TL;DR: If sustainability’s your vibe, FBB is a great starting point. For full-circle recycled, Neenah’s the move, just bring your budget.

3. Print Techniques That Pop (and Perform)

Let’s get nerdy about finishes. Spot UV? Matte lam? Aqueous varnish? Embossing? These aren’t just extras, they’re tools for telling your story. Whether you're going for minimal luxe or bold and expressive, the right print finish can elevate your entire product line.

Rule of thumb: If your packaging doesn’t spark joy on the shelf, it might not spark sales either.

4. Design That Delivers Literally

Function should never be sacrificed for flair. Think about how your carton will ship, stack, and hold up during transit. We’ll work with your team to test prototypes and dielines that deliver durability without compromising aesthetics.

Bonus points: Folding cartons are shipped flat, which means lower freight costs and a smaller carbon footprint. That’s what we call smart design.

5. Label Integration (Yup, We Do That Too)

Already printing labels with us? Perfect. We can design your folding cartons and labels to flow together seamlessly, keeping your brand consistent across SKUs and platforms. It’s like your packaging found its soulmate.

True story: We’ve helped brands boost shelf appeal just by syncing their box and label design. It’s the glow-up your product deserves.

6. Sustainability Isn’t a Trend, It’s a Standard

Today’s consumers want to feel good about what they buy, and that includes what it comes in. By choosing the right materials (like FBB with recycled content), minimizing waste, and considering the full life cycle of your packaging, you’re doing more than making a sale; you’re making an impact.

Want to go all-in? We’ll guide you through specialty options like Neenah board to align with even the most ambitious green goals.

Final Thoughts: Your Carton, Your Canvas

Folding cartons are more than a container; they’re a conversation. With the right structure, material, and finish, they can tell your brand’s story before anyone even opens the box.

At Altro Labels, we’re not just about printing, we’re about partnering. From first dieline to final delivery, we’re here to make your packaging unforgettable (and ultra-functional).

Ready to create packaging that’s smarter, sharper, and 100% you? Contact us to get started or shoot us a message. We speak fluent paperboard.