What is Cardboard

At Black Pine Paper Co., we know you’re busy and short-handed on time to do a deep dive into the nuances of paper packaging! We get it. To catch you up to speed we have created a summary of all the basics of paper packaging. That way, you can have a general understanding and ability to make decisions for your packaging needs.

Let’s get started!

 

What Is Cardboard?

Cardboard is a type of paperboard material that is used to create various forms of packaging, such as boxes, cartons, and containers. It is made from multiple layers of paper fibers that are compressed and glued together to create a strong and sturdy material. Packaging cardboard can come in a variety of thicknesses (calipers) and can be customized to fit specific packaging needs. 

It is commonly used in the shipping and logistics industry to protect products during transport, as well as in the retail industry to display and store products. Additionally, packaging cardboard is often chosen for its eco-friendliness and recyclability, making it a popular choice for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact.

 

How Is Cardboard Made?

Cardboard is typically made from a combination of recycled and virgin paper fibers. The process begins by collecting and sorting used paper products, such as newspapers, magazines, and cardboard boxes. The collected paper is then mixed with water and chemicals to create a pulp. The pulp is then screened and cleaned to remove any impurities before being sent to the paperboard machine.

In the paperboard machine, the pulp is further processed and refined to remove excess water and create a uniform consistency. The pulp is then formed into sheets or rolls and dried using heat and pressure. Multiple sheets of paperboard may be laminated together to create a thicker and stronger material.

Once the cardboard is made, it can be cut and shaped into various forms of packaging, such as boxes, cartons, and containers. The finished product may also be coated with a layer of wax or other moisture-resistant material to make it more suitable for use in certain types of packaging applications. Overall, the process of making packaging cardboard is a complex and precise one, designed to create a durable and functional material that can withstand the rigors of shipping and storage.

 

3 Varieties of Cardboard

1. Chipboard

Chipboard is a type of packaging cardboard that is made from a mixture of recycled paper fibers and virgin fibers. It is a lightweight and cost-effective option for packaging lightweight products such as cereal boxes, shoeboxes, and other consumer goods. Chipboard typically has a smooth surface and a brownish-gray color, although it can be coated with a layer of clay or other material to make it more suitable for printing or graphics. Due to its composition, chipboard is highly recyclable and can be reused multiple times before being disposed of. 

While it may not be as rigid as other types of packaging cardboard, it is a popular choice for businesses looking for an affordable and environmentally friendly packaging option. 

1. Industrial packaging applications.
2. Inexpensive

 

2. Kraft Board

Kraft board is a type of packaging cardboard that is known for its strength, rigidity, and durability. It is made from virgin wood pulp, typically sourced from pine or spruce trees, which gives it its distinctive brown color. Kraft board is popular in a variety of packaging applications, including shipping boxes, product packaging, and displays. It is also a popular choice for eco-friendly packaging, as it is fully recyclable and biodegradable. Kraft board can be further customized by adding a layer of clay or other coating material to make it more suitable for printing or graphics. Due to its strength, rigidity, and durability, Kraft cardboard is a preferred option for heavy-duty packaging needs, such as transporting heavy items or industrial goods. 

Overall, Kraft cardboard is a versatile and reliable packaging material that is well-suited for a wide range of applications.

1. Industrial & Consumer-facing packaging applications
2. Value

 

3. Solid Bleached Sulfate Boards

SBS boards are high-quality variety of packaging cardboard known for its smooth, glossy surface and bright white color. SBS cardboard is made from virgin wood pulp and is often used in premium packaging applications, such as cosmetics, fragrances, and luxury consumer goods. It is also used for food packaging, such as frozen food cartons and dairy products. SBS cardboard has excellent printing and graphics capabilities, making it ideal for products that require vibrant and detailed packaging designs. It is a durable and moisture-resistant material that provides excellent protection for products during shipping and storage. While SBS cardboard is not as eco-friendly as some other types of packaging cardboard, it is often made from sustainable and responsibly managed forestry sources. 

Overall, SBS cardboard is a high-quality and elegant packaging material that adds value and sophistication to any product it is used for.

1. Consumer-facing packaging applications
2. Expensive

 

Cardboard vs Plastic (Value & Sustainability)

Packaging cardboard is often considered a better value than plastic packaging due to its durability and versatility. 

Cardboard boxes and containers are typically stronger than plastic equivalents, meaning they offer better protection for products during shipping and storage. Additionally, cardboard packaging can be easily customized to fit specific product dimensions, making it a more efficient use of space and reducing the need for excessive padding or filler materials. Finally, cardboard packaging is often less expensive than plastic packaging, making it a more cost-effective option for businesses. In addition to its value, packaging cardboard is also more sustainable and environmentally friendly than plastic. Cardboard packaging is typically made from recycled materials and is itself recyclable, meaning it can be reused multiple times before being disposed of. 

By contrast, plastic packaging is often made from non-renewable materials and is not biodegradable, meaning it can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. The production and disposal of plastic packaging also generates a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. Cardboard packaging, on the other hand, has a much lower carbon footprint and can be recycled or composted, making it a more sustainable choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact.