How Much Does a Cardboard Box Weigh?

When it comes to shipping, moving or storing items, cardboard boxes are an essential tool. However, knowing the weight of a cardboard box is just as important as its dimensions. Factors like the type of cardboard material, size of the box, thickness and additional components can significantly affect the overall weight of the box.

In this article, we’ll discuss the various factors that affect the weight of a cardboard box, the average weight of different types of boxes and how you can determine the weight of a cardboard box.

Average Weight of Different Types of Cardboard Boxes

1. Single-wall cardboard boxes: These boxes are made of a single layer of corrugated material and are generally lightweight. They are commonly used for shipping lighter items. The average weight of a single-wall cardboard box can vary between 150 – 350 grams per square meter (GSM) based on its size and the thickness of the cardboard used.
2. Double-wall cardboard boxes: These boxes have two layers of corrugated material, providing extra strength and support. They can handle heavier loads and are often used for moving or shipping fragile items. The average weight of a double-wall cardboard box can range from 500 – 700 GSM, depending on the box size and the cardboard thickness.
3. Triple-wall cardboard boxes: Triple-wall boxes consist of three layers of corrugated material, making them very sturdy and capable of holding the heaviest items. Due to their robust construction, these boxes usually weigh more, with an average weight of 900 – 1200 GSM.

Factors Affect On Cardboard Box Weight 

1. Type of cardboard material: The material used in making the cardboard box significantly contributes to the weight of the box. There are different types of cardboard materials such as solid board, single face and corrugated fiberboard. Each material has its own weight properties, which affect the overall weight of the box.
2. Size of the box: Larger boxes require more material to manufacture, increasing their overall weight. Furthermore, a bigger box may also have a thicker wall, which can add up to the weight of the box.
3. Thickness of the cardboard: Custom Cardboard boxes come in various thicknesses, depending on the type of box and its intended use. Thicker cardboard provides better protection and support, but comes at the cost of increased weight.
4. Additional features or components: Some cardboard boxes may come with additional features such as dividers, handles or reinforced corners, which can add more weight to the box.

How to Determine the Weight of a Cardboard Box?

1. Using a scale: The most accurate way to determine the weight of a cardboard box is by using a scale. Simply place the empty box on the scale and note down the weight. If you need the box’s weight with contents, first weigh the box and its contents together, then subtract the empty box’s weight.
2. Calculation using cardboard density: If you know the cardboard density (GSM) and the surface area of the box, you can calculate the weight through simple multiplication. However, this method can be less accurate if you’re unaware of the exact material or thickness of the cardboard.
3. Estimation based on average weights: Although not as accurate, you can estimate the weight of a cardboard box based on the average weights mentioned above. If you’re looking for an exact figure, the best way to find the cardboard box weight is to weigh the box directly on a scale.

However, if you don’t have access to scales or need an estimate of what your box might weigh, then these methods can give you a good starting point. Once you know this information, you should be able to better plan for shipping and logistics.

Finally, keep in mind that the weight of your box will depend on several factors including the type of cardboard used, size, thickness and other materials added to the box such as straps or tape.

All these variables can add up quickly and change the weight of a box significantly. Therefore, it is important to factor in all of these elements while making an estimate and not just the basic cardboard box weight. Knowing this information can help you ensure that you are shipping correctly and efficiently.

Examples of Cardboard Box Weights

Following are example of the cardboard box weights:

1. Small box: up to 3 lbs.
2. Medium box: from 4 to 15 lbs. 
3. Large box: from 16 to 27 lbs.
4. Extra large box: 28 and more lbs.

Cardboard boxes are used for a variety of purposes, such as shipping and packaging items. They are typically made from paper-based products, such as corrugated cardboard or heavy duty double wall boxes.

Most of the time, these boxes come with a specified weight capacity, however it is important to consider that if you are shipping something fragile and need special protection, additional cushioning may be required which can add to the overall weight of your shipment.

Additionally, cardboard boxes can be easily printed with company logos or other artwork to create a more professional look and feel for the packaging of your product.

When choosing the right shipping boxes, be sure to consider the size of your items as well as its contents. If you are shipping multiple items, make sure that your box is large enough to accommodate them without having too much extra space. You may also want to consider using bubble wrap or foam padding for additional protection.

Wrap Up

It is clear from this analysis that the weight of cardboard boxes depends on a variety of factors. The exact weight can range from light to heavy depending on the type and construction of the box, as well as any extra components such as packaging materials.

When calculating the cost for shipping a cardboard box, it is important to take into consideration its weight. If you are ever in need of estimating a box’s weight, there are plenty of resources available to help you out.