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What Is Paperboard? Everything You Need To Know

What Is Paperboard? Everything You Need To Know

Everything you need to know about this thick, versatile, and durable material. Stronger than paper, it is essential for high-quality, foldable packaging. From cereal boxes to premium product cartons. Discover how this easily shaped, often recycled material drives sustainable packaging.

Emily Parker

October 10, 2025

Do you know what paperboard is? It's a thick type of paper. People use it to make things like cereal boxes, shoe boxes, and packaging. It’s stronger than regular paper but still easy to cut and fold. Paperboard is made from wood pulp or recycled paper. There are different types. Like whiteboard and chipboard. Some are coated to make them shiny or water-resistant.

The Custom Boxes designs paperboard. It’s also easy to print on, which makes it great for designs. Many companies like it because it’s lightweight and eco-friendly. Paperboard can often be recycled, which helps the environment. In this blog, we are going to explore everything about paperboard.

What Is Paperboard?

It's a very thick material derived from paper. It is substantially heavier and stiffer than ordinary paper. This strong product is created using wood fibres or recycled paper. Companies use it widely for making packaging. You also find it in bookbinding and for making greeting cards. It offers a good balance of strength and lightweight. Paperboards are vital for retail and the protection of goods.

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Types OF Paperboard

Here are a few helpful kinds of paperboard as follows:

Folding Box Board (FBB)

A common, multi-layered board with good stiffness. It is often used for cosmetics and frozen food.

Uses: Food packaging, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics.

Features: Lightweight, good for folding, strong stiffness.

Solid Bleached Sulphate (SBS)

This is a high-quality, pure white virgin fibre board. It is suitable for luxury and food-safe packaging.

Uses: High-end packaging, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, frozen foods.

Features: Excellent printability, hygienic, and good for coatings.

White Lined Chipboard (WLC)

This is made from recycled paper, usually with a white coating on one side. It is a cost-effective choice for general packaging.

Uses: Cartons, shoeboxes, general packaging.

Features: Economical, printable surface, lower strength.

Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK)

A strong board made from unbleached wood pulp. It has a natural, brown reverse side.

Uses: Beverage carriers, detergent boxes, heavy-duty packaging.

Features: High strength, water resistance.

Benefits OF Eco-Friendly Paperboard

Eco-friendly paperboard is a sustainable choice. It is made from renewable materials like wood pulp. The board is easy to recycle. It also breaks down quickly, which reduces landfill waste. Using it lowers your business's carbon footprint. It is a great alternative to plastic packaging.

Common Uses OF Paperboard

Paperboard is used in many ways. It makes packaging for food like pizza and chocolate. Toy boxes are often made from paperboard. Shops use it for display stands. It's used for folders and file covers. Many greeting cards are made from it. It’s strong enough for mobile phone boxes. Paperboard helps protect products.

Advantages OF Paperboard Packaging

Paperboard is a very strong material for products. It keeps goods safe during delivery and storage. It is highly recyclable, helping the environment. Brands can easily print on it for a smart look. It is a cost-effective choice for businesses.

Difference Between Paperboard And Cardboard?

Paperboard is thinner and less rigid. It is often a single layer with a smooth finish. This is used for items like cereal boxes.

Cardboard is a thicker, multi-layered material. It typically has a wavy or fluted inner layer for strength. Cardboard is mostly used for heavy-duty shipping boxes.

Design OF Custom Paperboard Boxes

Custom boxes begin with structural design. Artwork is then created for the outer surface. Box templates ensure the correct folding shape. Designers pick specific board thickness and coatings. Printing uses high-quality methods for branding.

Conclusion

Paperboard is an essential packaging material across many sectors. It is thicker and stronger than normal paper. Brands favour it for its versatility and low weight. You can easily cut and fold it into unique carton shapes. Excellent print quality makes the packaging eye-catching for customers.

It is a cost-effective and strong solution for products. Paperboard is a sustainable choice. This material is made from wood pulp or recycled fibres. It is simple to recycle again after use. The Custom Boxes give the best green packaging. This packaging is also very light, which cuts down on shipping costs. Special finishes like foiling can be added. The result is a unique attractive package. It’s easy to print on.

FAQs:

What is the difference between paperboard and cardboard?

Paperboard is thinner and smoother, used for items like cereal boxes. Cardboard is a thicker, stronger material. Also, often with a wavy middle layer, used for shipping boxes.

Are recyclable and eco-friendly?

Yes, paperboard is recyclable and eco-friendly. It helps to reduce waste and save trees.

What thickness is paperboard usually available in?

Paperboard thickness usually starts around 0.3 mm (300 μm). It commonly ranges up to about 0.7 mm (700 μm) thick.

What are the main industries that use paperboard packaging?

The main industries using paperboard packaging are food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. They choose it because it’s strong, lightweight, and easy to print on.