Rigid boxes, also known as “Set-Up Boxes,” are a popular packaging choice often seen with fancy and high-end products. These boxes are usually four times thicker than regular folding cartons and are not directly printed on. Instead, they are covered with paper that can be plain or very fancy, depending on the desired look and feel.
Unlike other types of boxes, they are not collapsible or foldable. Rigid boxes are known for their elegant appearance and are commonly used in the packaging of items such as perfumes, jewelry, electronics, smartphones, and premium gift sets.
How Are Rigid Boxes Made?
Rigid boxes are made using several steps to create a strong and sturdy packaging. Here are the steps to how rigid boxes are made.
Choosing the materials
First, heavy-duty paperboard or chipboard is selected for its toughness and stiffness.
Cutting and scoring
Machines are used to cut the chosen material into specific sizes. Then, creases are made along the edges to make folding easier.
Forming the box
The cut and scored paperboard is folded along the creases to shape the basic box. The sides are brought together, and glue or tape is applied to hold them in place.
Reinforcing the box
To make the box even stronger, additional reinforcements like corner protectors or metal edges may be added.
Covering the box
The outer surface of the box is covered with different materials, like paper or fabric. These coverings can be plain or decorated with fancy finishes, such as embossing or foil stamping.
7 Most Common Rigid Box Styles
Rigid boxes come in various styles, each offering unique features and characteristics.
1. Hinged Lid Box
This style has a lid attached to the base with a hinge, allowing it to open and close smoothly. Hinged lid boxes are commonly used for luxury products and gift packaging.
2. Telescopic Lid Box
A telescopic lid box is a specific style of rigid box that consists of two separate pieces: a base and a lid.
The lid is designed to slide over the base, creating a telescopic effect. This style of box provides a secure and elegant packaging solution for various products.
The base of a telescopic lid box is typically slightly larger than the lid, allowing it to fit inside the lid when closed.
3. Collapsible Box
Unlike most rigid boxes, collapsible boxes can be folded flat when not in use, making them convenient for storage and shipping. They can be easily assembled and disassembled, offering flexibility for retailers and consumers.
4. Magnetic Closure Box
In these types of boxes, there are two magnets. There is a snap sound as the box closes firmly. They have a top and lavish look. It makes them store costly gems and studs.
Moreover, the magnetic closure gives an enticing unboxing feel. The usual magnetic closure boxes are robust and more stable. The collapsible ones have tape on both sides. So, they stick to the collapsible parts of the box to prevent further collapse.
5. Drawer Style
Drawer-style boxes are also called slide or match rigid box. Their unboxing is the same as matchboxes. You can pull out the inner box with the help of a tied ribbon or a thumb hole.
A box that opens horizontally is safer to open. Accidents are more likely to occur in a box with vertical openings. Also, it can protect children from possible risky items inside.
6. Book Style
Inspired by the appearance of a book, these boxes open like a book cover to reveal the contents inside. They are commonly used for high-end stationery, photo albums, or special gift sets.
7. Shoulder-Neck Rigid Boxes
These boxes have many tiers. Likewise, it creates a custom unboxing event with useful addons. For a layered look, the neck region can be partially bare. The tiers set a surprise and puzzle for the clients while unboxing a pricey item.
The Cost of Making Rigid Boxes
The making of these is not like other styles. It’s like covering a gift. Also, these boxes have exact wrapping paper around solid cores.
They often have a kraft or grey base tone. Part of the fibers used in these products is recycled. Also, they are in white and other basics.
Each chipboard sticks on to form your rigid box. It takes a long time to produce such boxes. It takes 1-2 weeks to make. They can cost three times more than other designs. They often appear in the niche retail sector.
By having a great understanding of the industry, I design packaging that catches the eye, is on-brand, and is safe for consumers. Complies with all regulations and does not exceed the organization’s budget.
