Corrugated Plastic Boxes in the UK: Types, Sizes, Color and Pricing

When it comes to packaging solutions, corrugated plastic boxes have become a popular choice due to their durability, flexibility, and recyclability. Whether you’re shipping products, storing items, or organizing materials, corrugated plastic boxes in the UK offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional cardboard boxes. In this article, we’ll explore the types of corrugated plastic boxes available in the UK, their sizes, pricing, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What Are Corrugated Plastic Boxes?

Manufacturers make corrugated plastic boxes from polypropylene or polyethylene, two durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant materials. These boxes often serve packaging, shipping, and storage needs due to their superior strength compared to cardboard alternatives. Their corrugated structure provides added strength and rigidity, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

In the UK, industries such as retail, logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing use corrugated plastic boxes. They are available in various styles, sizes, and features to meet specific needs.

Types of Corrugated Plastic Boxes in the UK

1. Standard Corrugated Plastic Boxes

Standard corrugated plastic boxes are versatile and commonly used for general-purpose packaging. They come in various sizes and can be customized with different printing options. These boxes are lightweight, waterproof, and resistant to tearing, making them perfect for transporting goods that need extra protection.

2. Large Corrugated Plastic Boxes

Large corrugated plastic boxes are ideal for packaging bulkier items. Their larger size accommodates bigger products, and their robust structure ensures that contents remain safe during transportation. These boxes are frequently used in industries such as automotive, construction, and agriculture to store and ship large quantities of goods.

3. Heavy Duty Corrugated Plastic Boxes

For heavy-duty applications, heavy-duty corrugated plastic boxes are the go-to choice. These boxes are designed to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions, making them suitable for high-impact environments. Whether you’re shipping industrial equipment, fragile materials, or valuable goods, heavy-duty boxes offer the added strength and protection you need.

4. Custom Corrugated Plastic Boxes

Custom corrugated plastic boxes are tailored to meet specific requirements, such as size, color, and design. They are commonly used by businesses looking to create a branded packaging solution. Customization options often include printing logos, product information, and handling instructions.

5. Foldable Corrugated Plastic Boxes

Foldable corrugated plastic boxes offer the convenience of easy storage when not in use. These boxes can be collapsed and stacked flat, saving valuable space in warehouses or storage areas. Once unfolded, they provide the same strength and durability as regular corrugated plastic boxes, making them an excellent option for businesses looking for versatile storage solutions.

Popular Sizes of Corrugated Plastic Boxes in the UK

The size of a corrugated plastic box is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right one for your needs. The UK market offers a wide range of sizes, from small boxes for retail packaging to large ones for industrial use. Here are some of the most popular sizes:

• Small Boxes (300mm x 200mm x 150mm): Ideal for small parts, accessories, or retail products.
• Medium Boxes (600mm x 400mm x 400mm): A versatile size for storing or shipping a variety of items, commonly used in the food and retail industries.
• Large Boxes (1200mm x 1000mm x 800mm): Perfect for shipping bulky or heavy items, often used in logistics and warehousing.
• Extra-Large Boxes (1500mm x 1200mm x 1000mm): Typically used in large-scale industrial operations to store or transport larger equipment or components.

Most corrugated plastic box manufacturers in the UK offer custom sizes as well, so you can get the exact dimensions you need to fit your products perfectly.

Pricing of Corrugated Plastic Boxes in the UK

The price of corrugated plastic boxes in the UK varies depending on several factors, such as size, material thickness, customization, and order volume. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Standard Corrugated Plastic Boxes: Starting at £2.50 to £5 per unit for smaller boxes.
• Large Corrugated Plastic Boxes: Priced between £10 to £20, depending on the size and features.
• Heavy Duty Corrugated Plastic Boxes: These can range from £15 to £50, with the price increasing for higher specifications and customization.
• Custom Corrugated Plastic Boxes: The price can vary significantly based on the level of customization, with costs starting from £5 and going up depending on the complexity.

For bulk orders, many manufacturers offer discounted rates, which can significantly reduce the price per unit. Additionally, certain suppliers provide volume-based discounts, especially for businesses that regularly need large quantities of corrugated plastic boxes.

Materials Used in Corrugated Plastic Boxes

One of the key factors that set corrugated plastic boxes apart from traditional cardboard options is the material they are made from. These boxes are primarily constructed from two types of plastics: polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). Both materials are highly durable, lightweight, and offer a range of benefits for different applications. Let’s take a closer look at these materials and how they contribute to the strength and versatility of corrugated plastic boxes.

1. Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is one of the most common materials used for making corrugated plastic boxes. It’s a versatile thermoplastic polymer known for its strength, rigidity, and chemical resistance. The key benefits of using polypropylene for corrugated plastic boxes include:

• Durability: Polypropylene is resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for boxes that will undergo frequent handling or shipping. Its strength ensures that the box will maintain its shape even under heavy loads.
• Lightweight: Despite its strength, polypropylene is relatively light compared to other plastic materials, which helps to reduce shipping costs and makes handling easier.
• Moisture and Chemical Resistance: Polypropylene does not absorb moisture, making it suitable for storing or shipping products that might be exposed to humidity or other environmental conditions. It is also resistant to many chemicals, ensuring that the contents of the box are protected from chemical reactions.
• Recyclability: Polypropylene is highly recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

2. Polyethylene (PE)

Manufacturers commonly use polyethylene for corrugated plastic boxes due to its flexibility, impact resistance, and weatherability. Two main types of polyethylene are used in corrugated plastic production: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE). Here are the benefits of polyethylene-based boxes:

• Impact Resistance: Polyethylene is known for its ability to withstand impacts without cracking or breaking. This makes it a great choice for heavy-duty corrugated plastic boxes that need to endure rough handling during transportation.
• Flexibility: While polypropylene is rigid, polyethylene offers more flexibility, which can be advantageous when you need boxes that can withstand bending or compression without failing.
• UV Protection: Polyethylene boxes can be treated with UV inhibitors to prevent degradation from sunlight. This makes them ideal for outdoor storage or shipping in environments with strong sun exposure.
• Cost-Effective: Polyethylene is often more affordable than polypropylene, making it a cost-effective option for businesses that need large quantities of corrugated plastic boxes.

3. Combination of Materials (PP and PE)

In some cases, manufacturers combine both polypropylene and polyethylene to create corrugated plastic boxes that leverage the benefits of both materials. This combination allows for enhanced flexibility, durability, and resistance to various environmental factors. These hybrid boxes are particularly useful for specialized applications where the strengths of both materials are needed.

Popular Colors of Corrugated Plastic Boxes in the UK

Many industries in the UK widely use corrugated plastic boxes, and selecting the right color can enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Here are some of the most popular colors of corrugated plastic boxes and their common uses:

1. Clear (Transparent)

Clear corrugated plastic boxes are popular for their visibility, allowing easy identification of contents without opening the box. These are ideal for retail environments, trade shows, and storage.

• Uses: Retail packaging, product displays, exhibitions.
• Industries: Retail, electronics, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals.

2. White

White boxes are clean, professional, and offer a neutral design perfect for branding. They’re durable and provide a blank space for printing logos and product details.

• Uses: Custom packaging, bulk storage, high-end retail products.
• Industries: Electronics, medical, fashion, corporate gifts.

3. Black

Black boxes are sleek and modern, offering UV protection for light-sensitive products. They are often used for high-end products and luxury packaging.

• Uses: Luxury goods, products sensitive to light.
• Industries: Fashion, electronics, luxury items, food packaging.

4. Blue

Blue boxes are commonly used for organizing and differentiating products. They are often seen in warehouses for sorting and inventory management.

• Uses: Warehouse storage, promotional items, product sorting.
• Industries: Wholesale, logistics, distribution.

5. Green

Green boxes are popular for eco-friendly brands and organic products. They symbolize freshness and safety, making them ideal for food packaging.

• Uses: Eco-friendly packaging, food storage, gardening products.
• Industries: Food packaging, gardening, sustainable brands.

6. Red

Red boxes grab attention, especially for time-sensitive or urgent shipments. They’re also a popular choice for marketing campaigns.

• Uses: Marketing, product launches, urgent shipping.
• Industries: Retail, logistics, marketing.

7. Yellow

Yellow boxes are highly visible, making them ideal for hazardous materials or industries that require high visibility for safety.

• Uses: Hazardous materials, industrial packaging, promotional events.
• Industries: Logistics, chemical storage, industrial manufacturing.

8. Custom Colors

Many businesses opt for custom-colored boxes to align with their brand identity, ensuring a unique look that strengthens brand recognition.

• Uses: Retail packaging, corporate gifts, special promotions.
• Industries: Retail, e-commerce, corporate branding.

How to Choose the Right Corrugated Plastic Box

Choosing the right corrugated plastic box for your business or personal use depends on several factors. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

1. Consider the Weight and Size of Your Items

The first step in choosing the right box is to determine the size and weight of the items you need to store or ship. For lighter products, a standard or medium-sized box may suffice. However, if you’re dealing with heavier or bulkier items, opt for a large or heavy-duty corrugated plastic box to ensure your goods are adequately protected.

2. Durability Requirements

If your products will be exposed to harsh conditions during shipping or storage, it’s essential to choose a box that can withstand the elements. Manufacturers specifically design heavy-duty corrugated plastic boxes to offer increased resistance to impact, moisture, and other external factors.

3. Custom Features

For businesses looking to enhance their branding or product presentation, custom corrugated plastic boxes can be an excellent choice. These boxes can be printed with logos, product details, and other branding elements to create a more professional appearance. Additionally, custom features like handles or dividers can help organize and protect your products more efficiently.

4. Budget Considerations

While corrugated plastic boxes are generally more expensive than cardboard boxes, their durability and reusability make them a cost-effective solution in the long run. When comparing prices, consider the total cost of ownership, including the box’s lifespan and potential for reuse. A higher upfront cost may be justified by the longevity and durability of the box.

5. Environmental Considerations

Corrugated plastic boxes are a more sustainable packaging option than traditional cardboard boxes, as they can be reused and recycled. If your business prioritizes sustainability, opting for corrugated plastic boxes can help reduce your environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Corrugated plastic boxes are an essential packaging solution for many industries in the UK. Whether you’re looking for standard, large, or heavy-duty boxes, there are numerous options available to meet your needs. By considering factors such as size, durability, customization, color, and price, you can choose the best corrugated plastic box for your business or personal use. As a sustainable and durable option, corrugated plastic boxes are a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their packaging strategy.

If you’re looking for high-quality corrugated plastic boxes in the UK, be sure to reach out to reliable manufacturers like Polyflute. They can help you find the perfect solution for your packaging needs. Welcome to contact us right now!