Paperboard is a thick and stiff type of paper made by pressing wood fibers together. It is used to make everyday product boxes, commonly known as folding cartons, such as cereal boxes and toothpaste packaging.
Paperboard is stronger than regular paper but thinner and smoother than corrugated, which makes it easy to fold into boxes while still holding its shape.
Because it is easy to cut, fold, and print on, paperboard is one of the most common materials used in commercial packaging. It provides enough strength to hold products while keeping packaging lightweight and presentable.
Simply put, paperboard is the material used to make most everyday product boxes you see in stores. Let’s discuss more about paperboard and what type of packaging we can make out of it.
Cardboard vs Paperboard: Know the Difference & Clear the Confusion
Most of the time, the terms “cardboard” and “paperboard” are used interchangeably in the packaging industry. They are not the same.
Paperboard is a thicker, sturdier type of paper made from compressed wood fibers. Its different types have different surfaces.
Paperboard is lightweight and mainly used for retail boxes. It folds easily, prints well, and shapes into ready-to-use product packaging. Examples include cosmetic boxes, folding cartons, etc.
On the other hand, cardboard usually refers to corrugated board, which has a fluted layer in between two liner boards. This makes it much stronger, especially for shipping, storage, and transporting goods.
Corrugated cardboard also supports mailer boxes, which work for e-commerce and everyday-use products.
Types of Paperboard
Now that we have a clear picture of cardboard and paperboard, we can discuss the types of paperboard that we commonly find in the industry.
Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS)
SBS is made entirely from virgin wood fibers, which gives it a pure white color on both sides. It has a very smooth surface, which makes it perfect for high-quality printing and finishing.
SBS is commonly used in food boxes, cosmetics packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, and premium retail packaging, where a clean, attractive appearance is essential. Its strength and uniformity also make it safe for direct contact with food.
Folding Box Board (FBB)
FBB has a layered structure, with a strong middle core (often mechanical pulp) and white or lightly coated outer layers.
This combination provides stiffness and durability while keeping the board lightweight. FBB is the most commonly used paperboard for cereal boxes, frozen food packaging, and other retail cartons.
It folds easily, supports printing and coatings well, and is strong enough to protect products without being heavy.
Coated Recycled Board (CRB or CCNB)
CRB (Coated Recycled Paperboard) or CCNB (Clay Coated News Backboard) is a popular, sustainable, and cheaper choice for packaging.
It usually has a white-coated front for printing and a grey or brown back. It is basically made from discarded newspapers, paper products, and other thrown-away corrugated cardboard.
To make its surface printable, white clay is coated on one end. It is used for soap packaging boxes, toy packaging, and other standard retail cartons where a premium finish is not important. Its recyclability makes it ideal for brands that are eco-conscious.
Kraft Paperboard
Kraft paperboard can be found with different names in the market, such as SUS (Solid Unbleached Surface) and CUK (Coated Unbleached Kraft).
It is made from strong, unbleached natural fibers, giving it a brown color and a raw, rustic look. It is durable and sturdy, making it suitable for packaging that needs extra strength or an eco-friendly, natural appearance.
Common uses include eco-style product boxes, gift packaging, and strong retail cartons. Kraft paperboard is also less processed, which can reduce costs and environmental impact.
Non-Bending Paperboard
These are commonly known as rigid boxes or setup boxes that are thicker and more durable than the folding cartons.
These sturdy boxes are typically made from high-grammage paperboard that is glued together or sometimes bonded with chipboard.
After being transformed into the desired shape, these boxes are wrapped with specialty paper and customized as per the needs.
Mostly used as perfume boxes, high-end jewelry boxes, or to package other products that demand top-notch presentation as well as protection.
Final Thoughts
Paperboard is a core material in modern packaging, providing strength, printability, and sustainability.
From SBS and FBB folding cartons to CRB and Kraft eco-friendly boxes, each type has its specific advantages. While rigid boxes offer luxury and durability, they are still made from high-quality paperboard.
Understanding the difference between paperboard and cardboard helps brands choose the right material for their products, whether it’s for retail, food, or luxury packaging.
FAQs
What is paperboard also called?
Paperboard is also commonly called cardboard in everyday language, though technically, they are different. In the packaging industry, it may also be referred to as folding carton board or simply board.
What is paperboard used for?
Paperboard is used to make retail and product packaging. It is commonly found in food boxes, cosmetic cartons, medicine boxes, snack boxes, and small consumer goods packaging. It can also be used for folding cartons, gift boxes, and subscription boxes when the thickness increases.
Is paperboard the same as cardboard?
No, paperboard and cardboard are not the same. Paperboard is a thick, smooth sheet used for retail boxes like cereal or cosmetic cartons. Cardboard is thicker, often with a wavy inner layer, and is used for shipping and heavy-duty packaging. However, the two terms are used interchangeably in the packaging field.
Can paperboard be recycled?
Paperboards of every type can be recycled, even juice and milk cartons with plastic coating. Recycling centers separate the layers. Just flatten the box and put it in the recycling bin.
