Slotted Boxes are a versatile and widely used packaging solution designed for efficient assembly and secure product containment. These box styles are valued for their cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and adaptability to different shipping and storage requirements.
Drawing upon the foundational principles outlined in the Fiber Box Handbook, this guide outlines the variety of slotted box styles, their construction, and their advantages.
Slotted Boxes: International Fibreboard Case Code: 02 Series
0201 – Regular Slotted Container (RSC)
- All flaps have same length
- Two outer flaps are one-half of container width
- When folded, outer flaps meet at center of box
- Efficient design for a variety of applications
- Can be used for most products
- Little manufacturing waste
- Most common box style
02000 – Half Slotted Container (HSC)
- Same as RSC but with an open top
- Can be paired with lids to create a lidded box
- Versatile design
- Often used for quick transport or as storage bins
- Can be used as display boxes because of the open top design
0202 – Overlap Slotted Container (OSC)
- All flaps have same length
- Outer flaps overlap by one inch or more
- Long gap between inner flaps
- Sealed overlap prevents outer flaps from pulling apart
- Style used when the length is considerably greater than the width
- Resistant to rough handling
- Provides added cushioning and protection when stacked on its bottom panel
0203 – Full Overlap Slotted Container (FOL)
- All flaps have same length (width of box)
- Flaps completely overlap each other when closed
- Outer flaps come within one inch of complete overlap
- Style is resistant to rough handling
- Provides extra cushioning and added stacking strength
0204 – Center Special Slotted Container (CSSC)
- Inner and Outer flaps are different lengths
- Both pairs of flaps meet at center of box
- Strong box style
- Both top and bottom have 2x the thickness of corrugated board
- No flap gaps provide a level base for packed products
0205 – Center Special Overlap Slotted Container (CSO)
- All flaps have same length (one-half length of box)
- The length can be no more than 2x the width
- Style resistant to rough handling
- Inner flaps meet at center of box when closed, providing a level base and full top protection
- Outer flaps overlap is dependent on length to width ratio
0206 – Center Special Fill Overlap Slotted Container (SFF)
- Inner and Outer flaps are different lengths
- When closed, inner flaps meet at center, outer flaps fully overlap
- 3 full layers of combined board over entire top and bottom
- Style provides extra cushioning and stacking strength
0216 – Snap or 1-2-3 Bottom Container (with RSC Top)
- Four flaps that form the bottom panel are die cut
- Last panel folded “snaps” into the slot created by other panels
- Convenient style for small volume shippers or shippers without automation
- May not be suitable for heavy products due to bottom structure
Understanding the needs of your product is essential in choosing the right box style, as every fold and slot serves a purpose.
Explore our range of strengths and sizes on our Corrugated Packaging page!
Source: Fibre Box Handbook, 75th Anniversary Edition