The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Corrugated Box Strength (3, 5, or 7-Ply?)

Choosing the right shipping box is a critical business decision that balances product safety with your budget. The key is understanding "ply"—the layers of linerboard and wavy fluting that give a corrugated box its strength. The more layers, the stronger the box.

The 3-ply box is your cost-effective essential for everyday tasks, perfect for lightweight products and local deliveries. When your needs grow, the 5-ply box is the industry workhorse, offering the superior durability and stacking strength required for e-commerce and shipping heavier items across the country. For your most valuable or heaviest goods, the 7-ply box acts as a heavy-duty guardian, providing maximum protection for industrial parts or international exports.

To choose, simply consider your product's weight, the length of its journey, and its fragility. A heavier, more fragile item on a long trip will demand a higher ply count. Getting this right ensures your products arrive safely and your packaging budget is spent wisely.

Still unsure which ply is right for you? Our packaging experts are here to help. Request a free consultation today!