Custom Folding Cartons

Updated 2026-10-06

Custom folding cartons are paperboard boxes that ship flat and fold into shape along scored lines, used for cosmetics, food, supplements, toys and most retail products. Types include reverse tuck end, straight tuck end, auto-lock bottom, seal end and sleeves, made in SBS or kraft with full-color printing and finishes. Vorex replies with pricing.

Ships flat, folds fast
Every retail carton style
Sharp full-color printing
Premium finish options

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What folding cartons are and how to choose a style

A folding carton is a box made from a single sheet of paperboard that is printed, die-cut and scored so it folds into shape. Cartons are usually glued along one seam and delivered flat, then opened and closed by hand or on a packing line. They are the most common form of retail packaging because they are light, space-saving and print beautifully, which is why custom printed folding cartons appear in almost every store aisle.

The main types of folding cartons are reverse tuck end, straight tuck end, auto-lock or crash-lock bottom, seal end, tuck top, sleeves and display cartons. Tuck end styles suit light products, auto-lock bottoms support heavier ones, and seal ends add tamper evidence. SBS paperboard gives the brightest print; kraft gives a natural look. Windows, inserts and hang tabs adapt the carton to the product.

Custom folding boxes are read from several angles, so plan each panel: brand and product name on the front, benefits on the side and details and barcodes on the back. Regulated categories have labeling requirements that vary, so check the current rules. Lamination, foil and embossing add shelf appeal. Our team prepares the dieline, and you approve a digital proof before production.

Popular uses

Cosmetics and personal care
Dry food and confectionery
Vitamins and supplements
Toys and games
Small electronics and accessories
Candles and home goods

Specifications

Size	Made to your exact inside dimensions (L × W × H)
Materials	Paperboard (SBS), kraft, corrugated (E, B or double wall), rigid chipboard
Printing	Full colour CMYK, Pantone (PMS) spot colours, inside and outside printing
Finishes	Matte, gloss or soft-touch lamination, spot UV, foil stamping, embossing, debossing
Add-ons	Window cut-outs, inserts, handles, custom tissue paper and stickers
Proof	Digital proof on your dieline before production

Request pricing for custom folding cartons

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Options for custom folding cartons

Carton styles

Reverse tuck end, straight tuck end, auto-lock bottom, seal end, tuck top, sleeves, hanger cartons and display cartons, each made to your product size.

Paperboard

SBS paperboard for bright, sharp printing, kraft paperboard for natural brands, and specialty boards with metallic or textured surfaces for premium lines.

Printing

Full-color and spot-color printing on all panels and inside flaps, with space planned for barcodes, product details and category-specific information.

Finishes

Gloss, matte or soft-touch lamination, aqueous coating, spot UV, foil stamping, embossing and debossing to add shelf appeal and protect the print.

Windows and inserts

Die-cut windows with clear film, hang tabs for peg displays, and paperboard inserts that hold bottles, tubes and jars upright and centered.

Eco options

Paperboard cartons are widely recyclable where facilities exist. Ask about recycled-content board, kraft stock, water-based coatings and paper inserts in place of plastic.

How it works

Ordering custom folding cartons

Get a free quote

Request a quote
Tell us the box style, size, quantity and where it ships.
Get pricing and a proof
A specialist confirms options and sends a digital proof of your design.
Approve and print
Nothing goes to press until you approve the proof.
Delivered to your door
Boxes ship to your address in the USA or Canada.

FAQ

Custom Folding Cartons: questions answered

Still unsure? Ask a packaging specialist.

What are folding cartons?

Folding cartons are paperboard boxes that are printed, die-cut and scored, then delivered flat. They fold into shape by hand or machine and are the most common type of retail packaging for cosmetics, food, supplements and consumer goods.

What are the types of folding cartons?

Common types are reverse tuck end, straight tuck end, auto-lock bottom, seal end, tuck top, sleeves and display cartons. Each suits different product weights and opening styles. A specialist can recommend the right type for your product and shelf.

What is the difference between a folding carton and a rigid box?

A folding carton is made from paperboard and ships flat, so it is light and space-saving. A rigid box is made from thick chipboard, arrives assembled and feels heavier, which suits luxury and gift packaging.

Can folding cartons be used for food and supplements?

Yes, folding cartons are widely used for both. Labeling and food contact requirements vary by product and region, so check the current rules that apply. Ask about food-safe board or liners where products touch the carton.

How do I get pricing for custom folding cartons?

Send your product dimensions, carton style, quantity, finishes and artwork through the quote form. A Vorex specialist replies with pricing, helps with the dieline, and sends a digital proof for approval before production starts. Mention whether you pack by hand or machine.

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