Rigid Boxes vs Regular Boxes: Pros & Cons

Business owners can build a product as good as their bottom line, whereas real confusion begins in choosing the right packaging, whether it’s rigid boxes or regular boxes. The best choice involves a complex trade-off between cost and logistics versus brand perception and product protection.

Now that you have come this far to triumph, let’s walk you out through this overwhelming task and give your product the packaging it deserves. Read on to meet the target market and business goals!

What are Rigid Boxes?

Think of rigid boxes as a three-dimensional pocket where everything your product needs is served right away, whether it’s a luxurious feel, high-end protection, Unboxing experiences, extravagant branding, or high perceived value. Rigid boxes know their job! However, that’s not all, with precision comes a few flaws too! Read on!

Materials of Rigid Boxes

Luxury Rigid boxes are primarily made from thick chipboard or greyboard core for structure, which features robust holdings. Then other materials, such as speciality paper, coatings (matte, foil, gloss) or fabric (velvet), are wrapped to add a premium finish.

Styles in Rigid Boxes

Styles are what made rigid boxes a benchmark of all product packaging. Some of the famous styles are:

• Magnetic Clouser Boxes
• Book-Style Boxes
• Shoulder Neck 
• Two Piece 
• Sliding Sleeve/Drawer

Pros & Cons of Rigid Boxes 

The perks of rigid boxes are: 

• Extremely Strong 
• Sophisticated Look 
• Free Marketing Tool 
• Repurposable
• Excellent for High-End Branding

As well as flaws are:

• More Expensive 
• Takes More Room
• Not collapsible
• Not as Eco-Friendly
• Takes Time in Manufacturing

Best Use For

Some of the applications of rigid boxes that every other brand uses for their high-end products, where presentation matters, such as custom round boxes for jewellery, and others are:

• Cosmetics Boxes
• Subscription Boxes
• Jewelry Boxes 
• Phone Boxes

What are Regular Boxes 

Most likely, you’ll see regular boxes everywhere, whether it’s in the attic or repurposed by mothers. The speciality of these can’t be underestimated, with durable layers and the ability to withstand the voyage of shipping is undeniable. Regular boxes, for instance, regular six-corner boxes deliver a safe and secure means of support to almost all sorts of products, of all sizes, shapes, and designs. 

What is the Difference Between a Rigid Box and a Corrugated Box?

The key difference between rigid boxes and corrugated boxes lies in the construction. Where rigid boxes offer strength and high-end presentation, the latter offers cushioning and a cost-effective solution for general retail and shipping.

Materials of Regular Boxes

"Regular boxes" typically refer to packaging made from corrugated cardboard or paperboard. These materials are composed primarily of paper pulp, which is made from both virgin and recycled wood fibres, making regular boxes an unsung hero of shipping and product packaging.

Styles in Regular Boxes

Regular boxes don’t need to be stiff or boring; you can also add styles to them to sweeten the visuals. Some of the common styles are:

• Telescoping Boxes
• One-Piece Boxes
• Overlapped Slotted Boxes
• Tuck Boxes
• Window Boxes

Pros & Cons of Regular Boxes 

Some of the unbeatable perks of regular boxes are:

• Affordable
• Foldable shipping
• Exceptional printing quality
• Sustainable materials
• Suitable for a range of products
• Best option for mass production or storage

Alongside, some of its cons are:

• Less premium feel
• Less robust than rigid
• Standard look

Best Use For:

• Every day shipping
• Lightweight goods
• Budget-conscious brands
• General retail
• Moving

Key Difference in Rigid Boxes vs Regular Boxes: Keeping Branding in Mind

Now you know the difference, considering construction, quality, and cost. Let’s see how rigid boxes and regular boxes differ in terms of branding and creating a high-end packaging that attracts customers:

Budget Tight? Regular Boxes Work!

If you are a small business owner or a startup, it’s better to first invest in regular boxes packaging like corrugated, kraft paper or paperboard, because it will help in cost-effectiveness, shipping efficiency, and storage space, which are critical for businesses with limited budgets and logistical resources. 

Goal to Improve Unboxing Experience? Rigid Boxes help!

On the other hand, if your goal is to improve customer interaction, for instance, during the festive season, you may want to create gift packaging for your products to boost sales and build your brand image; then opting for rigid boxes helps. By adding styles like magnetic clouser or sliding sleeves, it will not only improve the unboxing experience, but also speak real brand values.

Cost Consideration

While we are at it, let’s make one thing clear that rigid boxes may seem pricey, but the final outlook of your boxes will outweigh the cost. Aside from this, if you are really into rigid packaging, then consider eliminating extra elements, such as choosing a simple style, using minimal designs, and there is no need to add finishes, as rigid boxes themselves have sleek and smooth surfaces.

On the other hand, a regular paper can also be made to perfection when aligned with exquisite styles, professional designs and finishes. 

Variation in Thickness

As the name suggests, rigid materials are more sturdy and heavy-duty than regular paper. Many brands that want to showcase their luxury items ought to have rigid boxes as they convey both protection and presentation.

Flexibility

That’s where rigid boxes lack, and regular boxes shine. A regular paper is flexible enough to fit in tight spaces, while rigid boxes need extra space as they can not be unfolded or collapsed.

What is Best For Your Product Packaging?

What’s best for your product packaging entirely depends on your budget, product nature, and market values. If your product is luxury, like jewellery and electronics, go for rigid boxes; if your item is classified as an everyday use product, then go for the regular boxes. 

Ready to make your custom boxes? Contact OXO Packaging to get an extensive range of unique rigid and folding boxes you’ll love to grab at first glance. Understanding the requirements of businesses on all levels, our boxes are built to provide an end-to-end solution at competitive costs!