16 Common Types of Packaging Boxes: Analysis of Box Designs

72% of consumers say packaging design influences their purchase decisions. This shows the importance of effective box designs. But how does your business decide which packaging box fits your products? Find out in our blog post.

#1. Lift-off Lid Box

This packaging style is common in luxury markets. They are practical, which is why businesses in these industries use them. Lift-off lid boxes have a two-piece design. The box has a separate lid and base. The lid is usually larger and fits perfectly over the smaller base.

Advantages

• Lift-off lid box can support heavier items without any issues. But its versatility stands out more. You can use it to package gourmet food, jewelry, or even apparel.

Disadvantages

• Lift-off Lid Box requires more material to make, which may make it more expensive than simpler alternatives.
• The extra paper used may not meet eco-conscious packaging goals.

#2. Airplane Box

Just like their name, this design unfolds into an airplane-like shape. The good thing is that you do not need an adhesive to put it together because it only requires a single piece of material.

Advantages

• These boxes are great for stacking and transport. They are built to handle heavy pressures.
• Airplane boxes are simple to put together.
• You can use them for both your economical and luxury packaging needs.

Disadvantages

• Airplane packaging boxes have a simple surface that doesn't allow detailed printing, affecting your branding efforts.
• The boxes are heavier than other types, which can make shipping more expensive.

#3. Book-style Box

A book-style box opens from one side just like a hardcover book. Its design is made up of a panel and a base that you can customize to meet your size and usage needs. Some high-end versions of this box come with magnets for a more secure closure.

Advantages

• It's a top choice for luxury packaging thanks to its elegant book-like structure.
• Some of its components are glued to ensure durability.

Disadvantages

• These boxes are costlier than simpler box designs because they require premium materials to make.

#4. Double Tuck Box

This box is easy to spot because it has flaps that tuck in at both the top and bottom. The double tuck box is made by folding and gluing a flat piece of cardboard.

Advantages

• The double tuck box is easy to make. The two flaps fold into the box to keep items secure.
• This box is affordable thanks to its simple design.

Disadvantages

• The double tuck box looks less fancy compared to other boxes on this list. It has a basic design that's the same for everyone, making it hard for your brand to be unique.

#5. Drawer Box

A drawer box has two parts: an outer shell and an inner box that slides in and out smoothly. Its pull-out style makes it easy to use for many packaging needs.

Advantages

• A drawer box feels high-end like the lift-off lid box design and it is strong enough to keep fragile items safe.

Disadvantages

• This type of box requires more paper to make, just like lift-off lid style boxes, so it is usually costly.

#6. Carry Handle Box

Carry handle box is the one that has a strong tuck bottom and handle to help you carry it.

Advantages

• Drawer box packaging is a favorite choice for gifts and souvenirs. The box's design makes it quick to put together and take apart.

Disadvantages

• Drawer box handles can break if the box is too heavy. So you have to make sure you check the weight and size of your product.

#7. Lock Bottom Box

Lock bottom boxes look like regular double tuck boxes at first. However, their special design stands out when you open them. They have a top flap you tuck in and a bottom that locks securely in place.

Advantages

• This box is great for packaging heavier items like electronics, cosmetics, or food.
• No accidental opening during handling or transport. The design keeps it securely closed.

Disadvantages

• Lock bottom boxes take longer and more effort to put together. This extra time and effort may translate to higher costs.

#8. Polygon Box

This is a special box with a lid that lifts off just like the lift-off lid box we already discussed. The difference? Polygon box is pentagon-or hexagon-shaped unlike the lift-off lid box that is square (and sometimes rectangular.)

Advantages

• Polygon-shaped packaging boxes have enough space for your creative designs and branding ideas.

Disadvantages

• They are not the most affordable box designs out there. That's why you don't see them as often as the simpler ones.

#9. Custom-shaped Box

Custom-shaped boxes are popular for trendy items, gifts, and toys. Is your brand targeting younger customers? This is one of the box designs for you.

Advantages

• These boxes make products look more appealing and that's why businesses use them to attract the youth.
• The other advantage lies in the box's flexibility. You can design them in different shapes, sizes, and styles to fit your needs.

Disadvantages

• Custom-shaped packaging boxes need more creativity during the design process. While this makes them more unique, it leads to higher costs compared to regular box designs.

#10. Rotating Box

Have you seen those packaging boxes that spin to show off products in stores? These are rotating boxes and as their name suggests they rotate to make products more noticeable.

Advantages

• Rotating box makes your product stand out. There is something about how these boxes rotate that catches the eye.
• You also save on space in your store as this design combines packaging and display into one.

Disadvantages

• Rotating boxes are tricky to design, and this process costs a lot. So that's why they don't come cheap compared to the others.

#11. Window Box

You may have seen these boxes that allow you to see a section of a product without opening them. They are common for food, drinks, and any other item that requires instant trust.

Advantages

• Window boxes help customers see the product clearly without opening the box. That's not even the best part about them: you can customize the opening how you like. It is another opportunity for your brand to stand out.

Disadvantages

• Customers can only see a small part of the product, sometimes this may not be enough to have the full picture. Some brands may use this opportunity to show only the best part of the product. This is not a good business practice. It is misleading.

#12. Display Box

A display box is just as its name implies: “displays products,” especially on beauty counters in retail stores. They have the same functionality as the rotating boxes, but they don't rotate. Instead, they use visuals to help your brand stand out.

Advantages

• They feature an open design that makes the product more noticeable.

Disadvantages

• The open design may be good but it exposes the product to dust, damage, or theft. You also need a dedicated space to put your boxes.

#13. Hanging Box

These are common in electronics shops. You may have seen those boxes that hold earphones, phone charging cables, or batteries. They are called hanging boxes and they are also the ones that hold toothbrushes and stationery in shops.

Advantages

• Hanging boxes save floor space as they are hung rather than stacked or placed on shelves. They also give your shop a certain degree of tidiness that's inviting.

Disadvantages

• The bad thing with hang boxes is the weight restrictions. These packaging boxes don't work for heavy items.
• They also don't offer substantial protection, especially to goods during transit. So you should consider other options. Maybe a bigger box to provide extra security.

#14. Folding Box

This box is a widely used packaging solution for its versatility. Its unique design, with fold points, allows them to turn into a three-dimensional shape. You can also flatten it when you need to save on space.

Advantages

• They save on storage and transportation costs.
• You can choose from a wide range of designs, prints, and finishes for your branding.
• They are often made from recycled materials, so you also attract the eco-conscious customers.

Disadvantages

• You shouldn't use them for heavy or fragile items. These require reinforcement.
• There is a risk of wear as you fold and unfold it repeatedly.

#15. Connected Box

The connected box comes in two main types: connected line boxes and ordinary line boxes. These 2 differ in their design, production methods, and use.

Connected line box

This is made from a single piece of cardboard.

Advantages

• Its simple structure makes it easy to assemble.
• The box's sleek design is perfect for high-end products.

Disadvantages

• Higher production costs compared to ordinary line boxes.
• May not be the best option for budget-conscious packaging needs.

Ordinary line box

This is made from multiple pieces of cardboard.

Advantages

• It's a budget-friendly packaging option.
• The box is adaptable to various product sizes and shapes.

Disadvantages

• May lack the aesthetic appeal most people require for premium items.
• Slightly less durable than connected lines due to its multi-piece design.

#16. Double Door Box

The double-door box features a symmetrical design with two outer sections: a left and right outer box enclosing an inner box. This design ensures convenience, versatility, and efficiency in packaging.

Advantages

• The double door makes your gift or luxury item stand out.
• It is easy to open and close.

Disadvantages

• This box requires more materials to make, leading to higher costs.
• The design takes up more storage space than flat or foldable options.

Conclusion

We used industry trends and expert research to help you pick the best packaging solution for your items. Packaging boxes represent functionality, creativity, and purpose in every industry. So the box you choose should match your product and ensure customer satisfaction.