While cardboard boxes and PP corrugated boxes are typical packaging materials, they vary in terms of strength, waterproof nature, affordability, and recyclability. The following article provides an overview of these two types of packaging and highlights the major differences between them to help you choose the most suitable packaging for your business.
What Is a Cardboard Box?
The cardboard box is made of corrugated paperboard, and the inner flutes of the material make it strong when folded. The box is very popular due to its lightweight nature, low cost, environmental-friendliness, and adaptability. However, its vulnerability is the fact that it cannot withstand moisture.
What Is a PP Corrugated Box?
PP corrugated boxes are lightweight plastic containers manufactured from corrugated polypropylene sheets. They are commonly used in logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture due to their strength, moisture resistance, and re-usability. While they have a higher upfront cost than cardboard boxes, they provide greater durability over time.
PP Corrugated Box vs. Cardboard Box
Resistance to water
Cardboard is not resistant to moisture; it absorbs water easily and it’s fragile, soft, and easy to be deformed. So it is not suitable for packing or storing anything in moist or wet conditions.
PP corrugated is waterproof and moisture resistant, so you can use it for outdoor applications, reusable packaging, food transport, and storage in wet or humid conditions.
Durability
Cardboard is more fragile, easy to tear, crush or damage during multiple uses or under moisture influence, so it is most suitable for short-time packaging that is not very heavy.
PP corrugated: It is strong, durable and not easy to bend, so you can reuse it multiple times in difficult conditions.
Weight
Cardboard is light and easy to handle, it is perfect for packing light materials, but you can’t use it for heavy duty applications.
PP corrugated is light, strong and due to its low weight, it becomes very easy to transport, so you can us it for heavy-duty without adding unnecessary weight.
Chemical resistance
Cardboard : It has poor chemical resistance because it absorbs liquids and may be susceptible to oils, solvents, acids, and various other materials. So it cannot be used for packaging and storage of chemical substances or in environments where they operate.
PP corrugated: It has high chemical resistance because it does not degrade even when exposed to a wide range of acids, oils, and solvents. You can use it in applications that involve frequent exposure to chemicals.
Cleaning
Cardboard: It absorbs water, dirt, and stains easily, making it difficult to clean for a tough cleaner. It can be weakened by cleaning. It is most suitable for one-time use only and not for any other use that may require cleaning and sanitization.
PP corrugated is easy to clean because of its non-porous nature which resists both stains and water. This type of plastic material can be cleaned or sterilized without losing its mechanical properties, so you can use it in applications where cleanliness is required.
Outdoor use
Cardboard is not suitable for outdoor use because it absorbs moisture, weakens in rain, and can be damaged by sunlight over time. So it is best used indoors or in dry conditions where it is protected from the weather.
PP corrugated is very resistant to the outdoors, because of its resistance to water and weather, as well as durability in different environments. It means you can use it for outdoor packaging.
Cardboard : It may be a more affordable choice for you to purchase, because the cost is low. However, it does not have good durability, and it is susceptible to moisture damage; so, it might require replacements. Eventually, cardboard proves to be cost-effective only for one-time use.
PP corrugated: It is likely to save you more money in the long run due to the reason that it is highly durable and reusable and will require few replacements. Despite being more expensive, PP corrugated will save you a lot of money since it will last longer.
Environmental Aspect
Cardboard: it is environmentally friendly because it is biodegradable, recyclable, and renewable since it is made of paper. But continuous replacement and disposal may increase wastage.
PP corrugated: it is also environmental friendly because PP corrugated is reusable, recyclable, and durable. But the ability to reuse means there will be less wastage, and fewer replacements are required, which makes it an eco-friendly material.
How to Choose Between Cardboard and PP Corrugated Box?
Select Cardboard If
- The packaging is for temporary purposes.
- You need paper fibers, which are easy to recycle and decompose,paper fibers, which are easy to recycle and decompose.
- You prioritize costs.
- Items are shipped under dry and indoor conditionsand inexpensive replacements available.
- Customization and easy printing is a necessity.
Select PP Corrugated Box If
- The packaging is designed for reuse and long lasting,which reduces packaging waste over a longer period.
- Items need resistance against moisture, chemicals, and outdoors.
- Durability and cleanliness is a necessity.
- Agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and logistics use this product widely.
- Customization and easy printing is a necessity.
- Used for long distance export, refrigeration needs, humid environments, and when thecargo requires durability.
Most Commonly Asked Questions
Q1. Can PP corrugated boxes be used for your food packaging?
Yes. There are food-grade polypropylene products developed for use in PP corrugated boxes in particular food application. Make sure that the material suits your food safety laws. These boxes are moisture-resistant and can be easily sanitized, which makes them great for reusable food transport solutions.
Q2. Why do companies change from cardboard boxes to PP corrugated boxes?
Increasingly many companies prefer PP corrugated boxes since it allows reducing waste associated with packaging, providing better protection for products, and creating a reusable system of packaging. Although there is a higher price to pay initially, it may become profitable in the long run.
Q3. Can cardboard boxes be used in international transport?
Cardboard boxes can be considered for international transportation if products inside are lightweight and are stored under appropriate conditions. Still, prior to deciding whether cardboard boxes will be used for international cargo transport, one should evaluate factors such as handling, transit, storage conditions, and the sensitivity of goods. Sometimes, PP corrugated is the best choice.
Q4. Which box provides better protection for your fragile products?
Generally, PP corrugated boxes provide better protection to fragile cargo because they have more impact resistance and are stronger than cardboard boxes. However, cardboard boxes can also provide adequate protection to fragile cargo if used with suitable packaging techniques.
Q5. Which packaging is stronger for your stacking purposes?
PP corrugated boxes are usually much more resistant in terms of stacking, retaining their shape after applying pressure. Cardboard boxes may be suitable for stacking if designed accordingly; however, their resistance may deteriorate after being exposed to moisture.
Q6. Can PP corrugated boxes protect your goods from dust?
Yes, they can. PP corrugated boxes provide better protection due to the strength and sealed surface of the material that cleans well. These boxes are particularly useful in industries where cleanliness is vital.
Conclusion
Both cardboard and PP corrugated boxes have their own unique merits. You can choose cardboard box for cost-effective, one-time use packaging, and you can choose PP corrugated box for its sturdiness and recyclability. To learn more about our premium PP corrugated boxes, check out Purepack.
