Most Common Types of Paperboard Grades for Packaging
Selecting the right packaging material is critical to ensure products make it safely into the hands of consumers. The packaging should be protective and meet the brand’s goals for aesthetic appearance and branding. Paperboard is a common packaging material made from various pulps and fibers, and there are several types of paperboard to suit a diverse range of applications. Here, we will explore the main types of paperboard and the applications that depend on these versatile packaging solutions.
Types of Paperboard Materials
There are several types of paperboard materials, each of which allows packaging manufacturers and brands to find the ideal packaging solution for a given application.
Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS)
Solid bleached sulfate (SBS) is a paperboard made from virgin wood pulp that has been bleached to create a unique white color. It offers a smooth finish, durability, and high strength. SBS has a printable surface, making it an ideal material for manufacturing high-end packaging products, including those used for:
- Apparel
- Bakery products
- Confectionary
- Cosmetics
- Dairy products
- Dry foods
- Frozen food products
- Medical, pharmaceutical, and healthcare products
- Stationery
Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK)
Coated unbleached kraft (CUK) is a durable paperboard material that resists moisture. It consists of unbleached kraft pulp, offering a rustic and natural appearance. CUK is an ideal material for producing refrigerated products and beverage carriers.
Foilboard
Foilboard is an ideal paperboard material for packaging luxury and high-end goods like cosmetics and fragrances.
Coated Recycled Paperboard (CRB)
Coated recycled paperboard (CRB) is a paperboard made of recycled fibers with a clay-coated finish to enhance its ability to accept printing. However, it is not ideal for high-quality printing techniques, withstands less weight than other paperboard materials, and is moisture-absorbent.
Products that Use Paperboard Packaging
Paperboard is ideal for packaging various products, including:
- Apparel
- Bakery products
- Cake mixes
- Cereal
- Confectionary
- Cosmetics
- Dry bakery products like cookies and crackers
- Dry foods like pasta
- Fragrances
- Frozen foods
- Hardware
- Dry laundry soaps and detergents
- Medical, pharmaceutical, and healthcare products
- Paper products like napkins and facial tissue
- Stationery
Window Boxes
A window insert in a paperboard carton can enhance the visibility and appeal of the product inside. Printex Transparent Packaging is your expert in producing custom window boxes and window inserts for paperboard cartons in the most sustainable and environmentally responsible manner. Window inserts and window boxes work well for toys, cosmetics, health and beauty products, candy, and other food products, as well as consumer goods like cell phones and computer-related items. Browse our window box page for more information.
Start Your Custom Paperboard Packaging Project Now
Paperboard is an ideal material for various types of packaging, and it is critical to select the right type of paperboard for your application. A window box or window insert can enhance the appearance of any paperboard packaging, allowing consumers to see the actual product before they buy it.
Printex Transparent Packaging is a leader in window box packaging technology, specializing in window inserts in paperboard packaging. Our innovative window boxes have windows made from clear and recyclable materials like clear PET and Post-Consumer Recycled PCR PET. Our professionals work with some of the world’s leading brands, offering design, prototyping, and co-packing services. Contact us or request a quote to speak with a team member about your custom paperboard packaging needs.
