What Is Chipboard?
Updated · Vorex Packaging
Chipboard is a dense, uncoated paperboard made mostly from recycled paper fibers, usually gray or brown in color. In packaging it comes in two main forms: thin chipboard for simple cartons and backing cards, and thick rigid chipboard that is wrapped in printed paper to make premium rigid boxes.
Chipboard, sometimes called grayboard or paperboard backing, is made by pressing recycled fibers into a stiff sheet. It is not designed to be printed on directly in most premium uses, so it is usually covered with a printed wrap or laminated to another sheet.
Uses in packaging
- Rigid boxes: thick chipboard forms the walls of setup, magnetic and drawer boxes.
- Inserts and trays: cut chipboard holds products in place inside a box.
- Backing and dividers: flat sheets add stiffness to mailers, header cards and sets.
Chipboard vs other boards
Chipboard is denser and stiffer for its thickness than corrugated board but does not cushion the way flutes do. Compared with SBS paperboard, it has a rougher, gray surface that is not ideal for direct printing. For buyers, the main question is thickness: thicker chipboard makes a heavier, more solid-feeling box. Your supplier can suggest a thickness based on the box size and the feel you want.
