Packaging Materials
The material is what your box is made of, and it sets how strong it is, how it prints, how premium it feels, how sustainable it is, and what it costs. Packaging Vista prints custom boxes in every common stock – bright SBS cardstock, natural and recycled kraft, fluted corrugated, rigid chipboard, and food-grade and FSC-certified options – with no die, plate, or setup fees, a 100-box minimum, free design and dieline, and free US shipping. Pick the stock below, then order the box style you need from our custom boxes.
Key takeaways
- SBS cardstock – bright and printable; the retail-carton standard.
- Kraft – natural, recyclable, and economical.
- Corrugated – strong and protective; made for shipping.
- Rigid – thick and luxurious; for premium and gift products.
The materials we print on
- SBS cardstock – smooth, bright-white paperboard for crisp retail cartons. Order folding cartons or cosmetic boxes.
- Kraft – natural, recyclable board for an eco, handcrafted look. Order kraft boxes.
- Corrugated – fluted board for shipping strength and protection. Order corrugated boxes or mailer boxes.
- Rigid chipboard – thick, wrapped board for a luxury, non-collapsible feel. Order rigid boxes.
- Recycled, FSC & food-grade – sustainable and direct-food-contact stocks. See eco-friendly boxes.
Quick comparison
| Material | Strength | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBS cardstock | Light–medium | Smooth, bright | Retail cartons |
| Kraft | Medium | Natural, textured | Eco & artisan brands |
| Corrugated | High | Sturdy, utilitarian | Shipping & heavy goods |
| Rigid chipboard | Very high | Solid, luxurious | Premium & gifting |
Not sure which to pick? Our complete packaging materials guide compares weight, sustainability, cost, and which stock fits your product.
Weight, finishes, and sustainability
Each material comes in a range of weights (measured in points, caliper, or GSM), and heavier board feels more substantial. We print full CMYK plus Pantone on every stock and add finishes like soft-touch lamination, foil, and spot UV. For an eco program, kraft, recycled, and FSC stocks keep the box recyclable – see our sustainable packaging guide.
Pricing, minimums, and turnaround
Kraft and SBS are the most economical and ship flat; corrugated costs a little more; rigid is the most premium. There are no die, plate, or setup fees, the minimum is 100 boxes, and standard production runs 8 to 10 business days after proof approval, with rush available. Every order includes a free dieline, 3D mockup, and free US shipping. Request a free quote with your box and material for exact pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What packaging materials do you offer?
SBS cardstock, natural and recycled kraft, single- and double-wall corrugated, rigid chipboard, and food-grade and FSC-certified stocks. We recommend the right one for your product, budget, and sustainability goals.
Which material is most eco-friendly?
Uncoated kraft and recycled paperboard are popular green choices, and corrugated is highly recyclable. Keep coatings minimal and choose soy-based inks to keep the box recyclable.
Which packaging material is cheapest?
Kraft and SBS cardstock are the most economical per unit and ship flat. Corrugated costs a little more, and rigid chipboard is the most expensive because it is thick and hand-assembled.
Can you print on all of these materials?
Yes. We print full color on SBS, kraft, corrugated, and rigid board, with Pantone matching and finishes available on each.
