5. Optimal palletisation and storage of your order

Our sites are equipped with different machines so that the minimum order quantity varies strongly, but on average it is around 2000 m2. For smaller runs, for example, you could contact our display division or one of our specific sheet plants in the Benelux, France and Norway. Our experts will be happy to provide you with further details.

How we will palletise and deliver your order depends on your logistic processes. Do you have sufficient space to store the goods or do you opt for storing them at one of our numerous warehouses? Do you prefer to work on a make-to-stock or on a make-to-order basis? Based on your desires, we also determine the pallet type, the stacking method and the type of strapping – possibly in combination with film - to keep everything neatly in place and sealed, where appropriate, as well as top protection of the pallet

3. The best dimensions for cost optimisation

The FEFCO standards define the form of the box, but not its dimensions. This is where our packaging experts step in. Together with you, they will look for the perfect solution for protecting your goods, optimising your packaging process, and making your logistics chain more sustainable.

The inside dimensions indicate the volume available for the primary product. Next, we note down length x width x height, expressed in millimetres. The length is always greater than or equal to the width. The outside dimensions indicate the volume available for the packaging on the pallet and possibly also the space taken up by the shelf-ready packaging on the store shelf. Finally, we also determine the flat size, which indicates the amount of corrugated cardboard that is needed to produce the box. The larger the format, the higher the price tag of the packaging.

2. The right box for every product

Cardboard boxes come in all shapes and sizes. One may have four closing flaps to be sealed by taping, another may have a lid and handles, while yet another one may have convenient inserts. Our professionals listen to your needs in order to select the perfect design.

Virtually all designs correspond to an international code developed by FEFCO, the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers. The codes consist of at least four digits and relate to the style or design of the box. Code 0201, for example, stands for the American folding box – also known as regular slotted container (RSC), the most well-known of all cardboard packaging.

The basic four-digit code can be extended to accommodate additional details, variations or a combination of styles. The American box code, for example, can be extended to 0201-03, where 03 indicates a different version of the basic box. There is already a wide range of FEFCO standards that are used by cardboard producers throughout Europe. However, FEFCO keeps re-evaluating and supplementing the codes to keep up with the rapidly innovating sector.

4. The right technique for your printing need

After the previous technical steps, it is now time for the most enjoyable step of all: your personal print! Your logo, slogan, image, or graphic design must make your packaging a visual treat. However, also be sure to consider technical product information, barcodes or QR codes. You should therefore devote sufficient attention to this stage.The print technique depends on the number of colours in your design and the cardboard type.

Three common techniques can be distinguished:

• Flexo printing supports all colour designs with four different basic colours (CMYK), possibly with two extra pantone colours, and possibly finished with a varnish. The plates are flexible, so that the machine can neatly print on the corrugated surface. It is still the most commonly used and most cost-effective print technique, especially for large print runs.
• Digital printing is booming because it is the most flexible option, certainly for print runs below 2000 m2. The inks are more expensive, but the print can easily be customised. Ideal for startup business sectors, smaller runs or seasonal packaging designs.
• Offset printing provides excellent print quality. However, the plates used are hard rather than flexible, so it is not suitable for all materials. Our experts will advise you in detail about the options.