When it comes to shipping and storing products safely, understanding corrugated box crush ratings is essential. These ratings help you select packaging that can withstand the pressure and protect your goods throughout the supply chain.
What Are Corrugated Box Crush Ratings?
Corrugated box crush ratings measure the strength of a box under compression. This rating indicates how much weight a box can endure before it starts to buckle or fail, ensuring your product remains intact during stacking, shipping, and handling.
Why Do Corrugated Box Crush Ratings Matter?
Choosing a box with the right crush rating ensures your packaging meets the strength requirements of your product’s weight and shipping conditions. Using a box that’s too weak risks damage, while over-specifying can lead to unnecessary costs and excess material use.
How Are Crush Ratings Measured?
The most common test used is the Edge Crush Test (ECT), which measures the force required to crush a box’s edge. The rating is usually expressed in pounds per inch (lbs/in). For example, a 32 ECT box can withstand 32 lbs per inch of edge before failing.
How to Choose Packaging Based on Strength Needs
- Know Your Product Weight: Heavier items require boxes with higher crush ratings to avoid damage.
- Consider Shipping and Stacking Conditions: If pallets will be stacked high or the box will face rough handling, opt for stronger boxes.
- Match Rating to Use Case: Typical home shipping boxes have a 32 ECT rating, while heavier-duty boxes range up to 44 ECT or higher.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Corrugated Box Crush Rating
- Protects Products: Prevents crushing and damage during transit
- Reduces Returns and Losses: Minimizes costly product replacements
- Optimizes Costs: Avoids overpaying for unnecessarily strong packaging
Understanding corrugated box crush ratings empowers you to pick packaging that balances protection and cost-efficiency. If you’re unsure about the right strength for your packaging needs, we’re here to help you make the best choice.
📞 Call Arnold Packaging today at 855-276-6537 or email us at info@arnoldpackaging.com.
Laura Cadden
Arnold Packaging
Protecting Your Product & Your Profit
