Quality
What is an American-style flap box?
An American-style box, also known as a flap box, is corrugated cardboard packaging with four side panels and flaps at the top and bottom. It is usually sealed with packing tape, and its dimensions can be adapted to the product being stored or transported.
Frequently asked questions about flap boxes
How do flap boxes differ from self-assembly boxes?
Should I provide internal or external dimensions?
Which cardboard specification does my box need?
Can the boxes be printed with my logo?
Do flap boxes need packing tape?
What information is needed for a quote?
What are the manufacturing and delivery lead times?
How to choose your cardboard flap boxes
When choosing a flap box, consider the product, its weight and the shipping journey. An oversized box leaves empty space; a box that is too tight may leave insufficient room for protective packaging.
Dimensions, protection and strength
- Internal dimensions: specify length, width and height, allowing for dividers or protective materials.
- Weight and fragility: explain what each box will contain and the total packed weight.
- Transport and stacking: indicate whether boxes will travel on pallets, by courier or remain in storage.
- Quantity: state the number of units required and whether this is a one-off or repeat order.
Custom printed flap boxes
FX Sanmartí manufactures American-style boxes with custom dimensions and flexographic printing options. Ask about adding your logo, product identification or handling instructions. The cardboard specification and printing are agreed according to the order requirements.
To compare closures, read our guide to self-assembly boxes versus flap boxes. To prepare your dimensions, see how to measure a cardboard box.
Measurement guide for your enquiry
| What to measure | How to specify it |
|---|---|
| Usable internal space | Internal length × width × height, in mm. |
| Product with protective materials | Overall dimensions of the contents and protection, in mm. |
| Packed weight | Weight of the contents, accessories and protection, in kg; this is not a stated load rating. |
Provide dimensions in millimetres and specify whether they are internal or external. Format and manufacturing are confirmed according to the design and material.
Uses for American-style flap boxes
- Moving
- For grouping and transporting belongings, with box dimensions and protection suited to the contents.
- Storage
- For organising products and materials. Match the cardboard specification to the load and warehouse conditions.
- Shipping
- For preparing orders and grouping products, with internal protection whenever the contents require it.
- Documents
- For collecting and transporting paperwork. For frequent access, also consider our cardboard archive boxes.
- Online shop orders
- For packing ecommerce orders in dimensions suited to the product. The closure and internal protection are selected according to the contents and shipping journey.
- Grouping products
- For combining several units or individual packs in an outer box. Dividers can help keep items organised and prevent contact between pieces.
- Spare parts and components
- For organising and transporting spare parts, accessories and components. Consider the total weight, any sharp edges and the need for internal protection.
- Retail distribution
- For preparing deliveries from a warehouse to shops or points of sale. Printed identification and box format can be adapted to the distribution process.