Corrugated Box Types: Explore Different Flutes and Their Uses

There are many different corrugated box types on the market, including different sizes, shapes, and flute types. These boxes and flute types can be chosen based on the product and the needs of the brand.

Flutes are crucial to all corrugated box types and packaging materials. There are five common flute styles: A, B, C, E, and F. Each of which varies in thickness and function. In this blog, we will explore the different types of flutes and how they are used.

What is a Flute

Flutes look like wavy lines that are glued to the paperboard. Corrugate consists of two linerboards that sandwich the middle sheet of the wavy lines. Flute types are used to strengthen and reinforce cardboard used in packaging. Each type of flute provides different levels of strength and support, making their uses and applications different.

Types of Flutes

A Flute

This is the strongest type of corrugated flute. A flute is 5 mm or ¼ inch thick and includes 22 flutes per linear foot of packaging. These corrugated box types are sturdy enough to handle heavier items, however, they also provide the cushioning needed for fragile items that require extra protection.

B Flute

B fluting has a medium-range thickness of about 3.2 mm to ⅛ inch and includes 47 flutes per linear foot of packaging. This flute type is generally used for inner packaging components such as inserts, partitions, and more. However, it is also resistant to crushing and punctures and offers a good surface for printing logos, graphics, and text, making it good for use as product boxes as well.

C Flute

This is the second thickest corrugated box type with a thickness of 3/16 inches and 39 flutes per linear foot of packaging. Commonly, C flute corrugated is used for shipping boxes since they are compressible and resists crushing. It also provides a good surface for printing, making it ideal for branding and marketing materials.

E Flute

E flute is the second thinnest option of the corrugated box types. It has a thickness of 1.6 mm or 1/16 inch. It also contains 90 flutes per linear foot of packaging. This type of flute helps reduce storage space and costs due to its thin nature. Typically, E flute corrugated box types are used for consumer packaging.

F Flute

This is the thinnest fluting option, sitting at 1/32 inches thick. Due to its thin nature, it is stiff, making it ideal for use in the packaging of certain consumer goods, such as cosmetics, jewelry, and shoes.

Corrugated Board Styles

In addition to the different flute styles, there are also different board styles. Flutes can be single-, double-, or triple-walled.

Single-walled corrugated consist of only one flute layer and are used to package lightweight products
Double-walled corrugated consists of two flute layers and provides additional protection for fragile or heavy items
Triple-walled corrugated has three flute layers and is extremely durable and solid, making it ideal for heavy-duty packaging.

Each board style is used in different applications, so it is important to understand the needs of your product and what each style brings to the table.

ROICOM USA Carries All of the Corrugated Box Types You May Need

At ROICOM USA, we work with you to create high-quality custom corrugated packaging solutions that meet the needs of your product and your brand. Our team creates product boxes, shipping boxes, displays, corrugated partitions and inserts, and corrugated trays and die-cuts.

We also work with you to provide the value-added services you need to get your project from start to finish. From kitting and assembly to vendor managed inventory and warehousing, we have you covered.