What Are Corrugated Boxes?
Corrugated cardboard boxes are the go-to solution for shipping and storage across nearly every industry. Made using a fluted inner layer sandwiched between flat linerboards, they’re strong, lightweight, and highly adaptable.
Corrugated boxes come in two common formats: single-wall and double-wall. Understanding the difference is essential for choosing the right level of protection and performance for your products.
Single-Walled Corrugated Boxes
Structure:
One layer of fluted board between two linerboards.
Best For:
- Lightweight to medium-weight items
- General shipping and distribution
- E-commerce fulfilment
- Warehouse storage
Key Benefits:
- Cost-effective and efficient
- Lightweight to reduce shipping charges
- Easy to store and handle
- Widely recyclable
Use With Caution: Single-wall boxes offer less resistance to crushing and are not ideal for heavy or fragile products—especially if they’ll be stacked or shipped long distances.
Double-Walled Corrugated Boxes
Structure:
Two layers of fluting with three liners—one between each fluted section and one on either side.
Best For:
- Heavy, bulky or delicate items
- Industrial parts and machinery
- Export shipping and palletisation
- Long-term or high-stress storage
Key Benefits:
- Excellent strength and durability
- Improved crush resistance
- Ideal for stacking and transport in bulk
- Offers superior protection for high-value goods
Consider the Trade-Offs: Double-wall cardboard boxes are more robust but slightly heavier and costlier. However, they offer peace of mind where protection is essential.
Sustainable Packaging Solutions
More businesses are prioritising eco-friendly packaging—and corrugated cardboard delivers on both performance and environmental responsibility.
At McKinleys, we’re committed to supplying sustainable packaging solutions. Our corrugated boxes are:
- 100% recyclable and accepted in kerbside recycling schemes
- Biodegradable, breaking down naturally without harming the environment
- Made from renewable resources, including recycled fibres and FSC®-certified paper
- Reusable, especially in the case of double-wall boxes
Branded & Bespoke Corrugated Boxes
If you’re looking for more than just plain cardboard, McKinleys offers fully bespoke corrugated packaging solutions—tailored to your exact needs.
Our custom packaging services include:
- Made-to-measure boxes for products of any size or shape
- Full-colour printing to showcase your branding
- Retail-ready packaging for shelf display or e-commerce
- Structural design for maximum protection and visual impact
Whether you need custom-printed boxes for brand presentation or specialist designs for industrial protection, our in-house experts will help you create a solution that’s functional, cost-effective, and visually on-brand.
Which Box Type Should You Choose?
| Choose Single-Wall If… | Choose Double-Wall If… |
|---|---|
| You’re packing light-to-medium goods | You’re shipping heavy or delicate items |
| Cost and space-saving are key | You need strength and durability |
| Shipments are domestic or short-distance | Goods are stacked or shipped overseas |
| You want general-purpose packaging | You require industrial-grade protection |
Why Choose McKinleys for Your Packaging?
As a trusted B2B packaging supplier, McKinleys delivers more than just boxes. We provide:
- A full range of corrugated packaging products
- Customised design and on-brand printed packaging
- Environmentally responsible materials and sourcing
- Expert advice and responsive service
Whether you’re stocking your warehouse or designing a bespoke packaging solution, our team will help you choose the right box, the right spec, and the right finish—every time.
Ready to improve your packaging?
Contact McKinleys today for expert advice, competitive pricing, and tailored support for all your corrugated box needs.
