Corrugated board is made of flat liner layers with wavy (fluted) layers between them. The more layers, the stronger the board and the heavier the load it can carry.
Types by number of layers
- 2-ply — one liner and one fluted layer. Flexible enough to wrap around a product; good for protecting fragile goods and as an interlayer.
- 3-ply — two liners and one fluted layer. The core material of everyday packaging; most shipping boxes are made from it.
- 5-ply — three liners and two fluted layers. For heavy, bulky loads and long-distance transport.
- 7-ply — four liners and three fluted layers. Highly durable board for industrial equipment and very heavy loads.
What to consider
- The weight and fragility of the product
- How high the boxes will be stacked
- Transport distance and conditions (humidity, number of handlings)
- Whether the box will be printed
Multi-ply board is stronger but heavier and more expensive, so the best choice is the simplest option that reliably protects the load. If in doubt, describe your product and our specialists will recommend the board.
