When we see a cardboard box, we may think of it as a disposable container. While technically true, there’s more to it than that, and there are various types of boxes to consider. Corrugated boxes are the most widely used packaging option for shipping and storage, thanks to their durability. Find out why corrugated is the most sustainable packaging option and how it can benefit your business and the environment!
What Is Corrugated Cardboard?
Corrugated cardboard, or corrugated fiberboard, is a versatile and durable packaging material comprising three layers of paper—an inside liner, an outside liner, and a fluted sheet in between. This combination gives it strength and rigidity while also making it lightweight. Often, businesses use this material for boxes to ship or store their products securely and cost-effectively.
Moreover, by adopting sustainable practices, you save money on packaging costs. This allows businesses to invest in other areas, such as research and development or marketing, leading to further growth and success.
Reasons Corrugated Cardboard Is Sustainable
Choosing a suitable packaging material is crucial for businesses, as it affects numerous areas of operation. Corrugated cardboard is a common staple for many companies for the following reasons:
- It’s affordable
- It’s easy to dispose of
- It’s a reusable packing material
- It’s durable
By choosing this material, you select an option that is budget-friendly and better for our planet, which is a win-win situation for your business.
It’s Affordable
Cost efficiency is a primary concern for businesses across all sectors, and corrugated packaging brilliantly answers this call. This material typically costs less to ship because it’s lightweight. Furthermore, its affordability allows businesses to save on their packaging costs and allocate those resources toward other areas of the business.
It’s Easy To Dispose Of
Corrugated cardboard is 100 percent recyclable and often made with biodegradable material. If you have a box that you cannot reuse because it’s in poor condition, simply break it down and place it in the recycle bin. Knowing you can recycle this material is one of the key reasons corrugated is the most sustainable packaging; recycling helps reduce landfill waste and conserves natural resources. Likewise, by recycling the material, manufacturers can reuse it to make new corrugated cardboard.
It’s a Reusable Packing Material
Unlike other types of cardboard, the fibers from corrugated packaging can be reused at various stages in the manufacturing process to create new corrugated cardboard. The more we reuse this material, the less often we have to create new cardboard.
By using corrugated packaging, we can significantly reduce the cycle of waste. This benefits businesses by reducing their costs, helping conserve natural resources and reducing carbon emissions.
Reuse Cardboard Boxes
If you have boxes in good condition, reuse them rather than immediately recycling the containers. To save money and help the environment, you could also buy used cardboard boxes from a company specializing in packaging material.
It’s Durable
The structural integrity of corrugated packaging guarantees that products remain secure during transportation, reducing the risk of damage and the need for replacement shipments. This ensures customer satisfaction by delivering products in pristine condition and contributes to sustainability by minimizing wasteful practices.
When you use a durable material for the container, you can use less packaging inside the box, reducing waste and costs. Additionally, you can buy corrugated cardboard boxes customized to the exact dimensions of your product, further avoiding excessive packaging usage.
Why Sustainability Matters for Your Business
As efforts to preserve Earth’s beauty become more prevalent, so does the public’s expectation of corporate environmentalism. Choosing sustainable packaging options benefits your community and boosts your reputation. More public support makes it easier to expand your customer base and grow your business.
Moreover, by adopting sustainable practices, you save money on packaging costs. This allows businesses to invest in other areas, such as research and development or marketing, leading to further growth and success.
A Bonus to Reusing Cardboard
Reusing specific materials, such as corrugated cardboard, reduces the industry’s need to cut down trees to make new packaging materials. We protect forests by preserving precious ecosystems and maintaining a healthy natural balance.
Tips for Buying Corrugated Boxes
Review the seller’s reputation, price, customization options, and wholesale shopping options as you prepare to buy corrugated boxes for your business. Completing these tasks ensures you spend your money wisely and select the most sustainable packaging option for your business.
Review Seller Reputation
A reputable seller offers reliability, quality assurance, and unmatched customer service. As you search for a manufacturer to partner with, list top options and reach out to each supplier. Look for suppliers with positive reviews, commendations, and a solid track record of delivering on their promises.
Compare Price to Value
It’s tempting to opt for the cheapest corrugated boxes, but quality comes at a cost. Beware of sellers offering unrealistically low prices, as this could indicate subpar materials or production processes that compromise sustainability and strength. Instead, compare prices among reliable suppliers and consider the overall value you’ll receive from your purchase.
As you shop, note the price of boxes compared to the amount you’ll receive to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. The price for containers should make sense compared to the amount you’ll receive; factor in other details such as customization and new versus used boxes.
Consider Customization Options
Using customized corrugated boxes ensures your packaging aligns perfectly with your product dimensions, reducing waste and enhancing product security during transit. Furthermore, customized packaging reflects your brand’s commitment to quality and attention to detail—qualities that resonate well with customers.
Pro Tip
Partner with suppliers who offer flexible customization options that enable you to design corrugated boxes that are as unique as your products.
Shop Wholesale
Buying corrugated boxes in bulk generally lowers the cost per unit, which is ideal for businesses that require consistent amounts of packaging material. Additionally, buying wholesale reduces the need for excessive transportation, saves fuel, and reduces carbon emissions.
Buy From United Container Co
United Container Co. offers a wide selection of quality and customizable corrugated packaging solutions for businesses of all sizes. Our industrial cardboard boxes are perfect for a range of business types, including e-commerce, manufacturing, and retail. You can buy wholesale supplies of new or used boxes depending on your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our sustainable packaging options and how we can help your business grow while preserving the planet!
