What Are Postal Boxes and How Do They Differ from Mailing Cartons?
What postal boxes are, how they compare to other packaging formats, and when to use them.
What are postal boxes?
Postal boxes are corrugated cardboard boxes designed specifically for sending items through postal and courier services. They are sized to fit within carrier pricing bands, made from protective corrugated board, and often feature easy assembly mechanisms like crash lock bases or fold-and-tuck closures.
Quick answer
Postal boxes are corrugated cardboard boxes designed for postal and courier shipping. They differ from mailing cartons (which are typically thinner, non-corrugated card) in strength and protection. Postal boxes use corrugated board with a fluted middle layer for cushioning, while mailing cartons are solid card. Use postal boxes for items needing protection; mailing cartons for flat, robust items like books or documents.
Types of postal boxes
Rectangular boxes with fold-and-tape or tuck-top closure. The most common format.
Pre-glued base that snaps flat for faster assembly. Ideal for high-volume operations.
Custom-shaped boxes designed to fit specific products with minimal void space.
Ultra-thin boxes designed to fit within Royal Mail large letter dimensions for cheaper postage.
Choosing format: boxes vs bags or sizing guide.
Postal boxes vs mailing cartons
When to use postal boxes
Use postal boxes for anything that needs cushioning from impacts: electronics, cosmetics, glass, ceramics, food items, and any product where damage during transit would be costly. Use mailing cartons for flat, rigid items that resist bending but do not need impact cushioning.
Postal boxes for every need
From lightweight E-flute to heavy-duty double-wall, find your perfect postal box.
Browse postal boxesFrequently asked questions
Corrugated cardboard boxes designed for postal and courier shipping, sized to fit carrier pricing bands.
Postal boxes use corrugated board (fluted) for cushioning. Mailing cartons use solid card for rigidity without cushioning.
Boxes with a pre-glued base that locks flat in one push, requiring no tape for the base. Faster to assemble.
Ultra-thin boxes (under 25mm) designed to fit Royal Mail large letter dimensions for cheaper postage.
Postal boxes for fragile, rigid, or premium items. Mailing bags for soft, non-fragile items like clothing.
Part of our guide
Product Guide: Postal Boxes
Expert guides on postal boxes, from sizing and materials to branding and cost optimisation.
Browse all guides →
