Fefco box styles are a set of standardized packaging designs created by the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers (Fefco). These box styles have become internationally acknowledged for corrugated packaging design, making it very easy to purchase the perfect box for you. In this blog, we will cover the most common box styles, including their unique characteristics and potential uses, to help businesses make informed decisions when selecting packaging solutions.
Here’s the full FEFCO style catalogue, or see below our summary of the most popular box styles.
0201 Box Style
This is by far the most common style of box. It is very versatile and user friendly. It is an excellent box style for all sizes of products from small items to large transit outer packs and pallet boxes. They are shipped flat and are very easy to assemble by simply taping the flaps on the base of the box, packing the product, and then taping the top of the box. Job done!
0201 Box Style
0203 Box Style
0203 Box Style
This is a very similar concept to the 0201 style, the difference being that whereas an 0201 box flaps meet in the middle of the box, the 0203 style outer flaps ‘fully overlap’. This gives extra protection to the product and can help with heavy products. It can also help with products that might have parts that can protrude through the box flaps. Again, these are shipped flat and just require tape on the top and bottom of the box.
0200 Box Style
0200 Box Style
The 0200 is another very popular design that is used for a large variety of products. It is similar to the 0201 style but has an open top. One popular use for this style is for a pallet box. It can also be used in conjunction with a lid. Once loaded, if the correct grade of cardboard is used, this style can often be double stacked. If the pallet box has a large height, a cut out section can be added to make packing easier. It is taped on the bottom flaps and supplied flat packed.
0320 Box Style
0320 Box Style
This is often referred to as a telescopic box and lid. This style is basically two 0200 style boxes which slide one over the other. This allows the boxes to move up and down, meaning that the pack can be used for more than just one size of product. These are ideal for tall, variable products like plants, bicycles and furniture.
0401 Box Style
0401 Box Style
Also known as a Maltese Cross. This design is very popular within the art industry. It is a great style for wrapping prints and frames. The product is placed onto the cardboard and then the wrap folds round the ends. The sides are then folded over. The wrap is simply taped along the middle. Very simple to assemble, very user friendly.
0410 Box Style
0410 Box Style
Otherwise known as a ‘five panel wrap’ or a ‘side seal wrap’. This style can be produced without tooling. It is popular for packing narrow products such as work tops or flat packed furniture. The item is laid onto the 0410 and then the cardboard is wrapped round the product and taped along the edge. This is a very economical way to package your goods.
0411 Box Style
0411 Box Style
Very similar to the 0410, the main difference being that this wrap is taped down the middle rather than the side. This makes it easier for the packer but has the down side that when opening the box with a knife the product can get damaged.
All of the above FEFCO codes can be produced without any cutting tools (unless the sizes are very extreme). A cutting tool is required if a design is made to a specific size and style and literally ‘stamps out’ the shape of the box. Below are just a few of the common types of ‘die cut’ FEFCO codes.
0422 Box Style
Fold over end tray. This is a popular style and can be used for holding items such as jars, bottles or tins. They are often seen on supermarket shelves and can be printed with the customers logo and product details.
0422 Box Style
0423 Box Style
0423 Box Style
As 0422 style, but folds over on the sides rather than at the ends. When using this style as a base and the 0422 style as a lid you get double protection around your product.
0426 Box Style
0426 Box Style
Self assembly style box with a fold over hinged lid. No tape needed. Often referred to as a pizza box as this is the style that tends to be used in the food takeaway industry. It is also used for clothing and is a popular style for postal packs. Very quick and easy to assemble, this is one of the most commonly used die cut styles. Again, these are often printed with the customers details.
0427 Box Style
0427 Box Style
Another very popular die cut style. Like the 0426 style, this also has a fold over hinged lid. The advantage of the 0427 style, is that it also has the ability to lock the lid into place. This is achieved by the lid folding over the external side of the box, and two tabs locking into the sides of the box, holding the lid securely in place.
Using Fefco Box Styles
Choosing the right Fefco box style for your product can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to ensure your items are protected during transportation and storage. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a Fefco box:
- Weight: Consider the weight of your product to determine the strength and thickness of the corrugated material required. If your item is heavy, you’ll need a more substantial box with thicker walls to prevent it from breaking during transit.
- Fragility: If your product is delicate or fragile, choose a Fefco box style that provides extra protection, with a custom insert, for example. This will help ensure your items arrive at their destination in one piece.
- Size: Make sure to choose a Fefco box that is the right size for your product. A box that is too small may not provide enough protection, while a box that is too big can cause your item to shift around during transport.
When it comes to ordering a Fefco box style, you can use the instant box quote function on our website. If you have a specific style you need get in touch!
How to Ensure Full Product Protection
When packing your products, ensure they are secured inside the box with proper cushioning materials, such as the paper void fill or honeycomb paper which can be ordered here. Make sure to seal the box tightly with packing tape to prevent it from opening during transit.
Fefco box styles play a vital role in the packaging industry, ensuring that products are securely and efficiently packed for shipping. Choosing the right Fefco box style is essential for protecting your product during transit. Quickbox offers a range of sustainable packaging options, including Fefco boxes, to help you make environmentally friendly choices without compromising on product safety. Hopefully, this has helped to explain some of the styles and gives you an idea of which one would work best for your products. There are in the region of 200 different FEFCO box styles, please see link below to the full FEFCO range. Get a quote for your boxes here. If you are not sure what box style or size is right for you check out our Buying Guide.
and then Add to Home Screen.
