Corrugated cardboard is not what you find in cereal boxes or greeting cards, but you have almost certainly encountered it, most likely in cardboard packaging, where it offers increased protection and durability. So, just how does it work?
What is corrugated cardboard?
A basic piece of corrugated cardboard comes in three layers. The middle layer is fluted, or wavy, whilst the outside layers, known as liners, are smooth. It is this structure that gives corrugated its strength and durability. Sometimes, additional layers can be used for extra reinforcement.
How is it used?
One of the main uses of corrugated cardboard is as packaging. Boxes made from corrugated cardboard are used when transporting a wide range of items. In fact, across Europe, around ¾ of all goods are contained in corrugated cards as a form of protection. After corrugated card is used once, it can be reused or recycled, as with the cardboard from https://capscases.co.uk/services/sustainable-cardboard-packaging to maximise efficiency and reduce waste.
What are its benefits?
As well as being easy to recycle, corrugated card is sturdy enough to protect a wide range of items, whilst also being more [cost effective](https://www.fibrebox.org/cost-effective than alternatives). Many businesses appreciate its versatility and the ability to customise it. Corrugated card comes in different sizes, shapes, weights and thicknesses depending on the intended use, and it can be printed with product information or logos if necessary.
You now understand the basics of corrugated cardboard and how it differs from other types of card. That may help you decide when corrugated cardboard is most suitable for your particular needs.
Choosing corrugated trays for transport
One of the most common uses of corrugated cardboard is the stackable tray used to move fruit, vegetables and other delicate goods. A good tray should be lightweight yet strong enough to carry its load, recyclable, cost-effective and able to be stored flat until it is needed.
Tray design has improved in practical ways. One patented design is cut from a single, almost square blank of cardboard, which keeps waste low, and it has prism-shaped reinforcements built into the corners. These give double thickness at the edges for extra strength, so no separate reinforcing panels need to be added after assembly. Because no staples or glue are used, the trays are not contaminated when recycled, and they flatten into neat stacks after use.
Cardboard trays are ideal for short-term transport of perishable goods. For long-term storage, sturdier options such as bin racks may be better. They are heavier and bulkier, but they last for years, which can make them the more sustainable choice.
