Containerboard vs. Paperboard — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 12, 2024
Containerboard is a specialized material used to make corrugated and solid fiber shipping containers, focusing on durability and stacking strength. Paperboard is a thicker, more versatile form of paper used for a range of packaging including cereal boxes.
Difference Between Containerboard and Paperboard
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Containerboard specifically refers to paper-based materials used to manufacture shipping containers, with a high emphasis on structural integrity to withstand shipping and handling, whereas paperboard is used broadly in both packaging and graphic applications, prized for its printability and foldability.
While containerboard is generally made from a mix of kraft and recycled fibers to enhance durability and support heavy loads, paperboard can be made from pure virgin pulp or recycled materials, tailored to meet aesthetic or strength requirements for lighter consumer goods packaging.
Containerboard often includes two main types: linerboard (smooth outer facings) and corrugating medium (fluted inner layer), providing the necessary strength for boxes, on the other hand, paperboard is typically a single-layer sheet used in folding cartons and other light-duty purposes.
The production of containerboard is primarily driven by the demand in the shipping industry, focusing on cost-effectiveness and sustainability, while paperboard production caters to a wider market, emphasizing versatility and consumer appeal through graphic design.
Industries use containerboard for shipping a vast array of products due to its superior stacking strength and resistance to bending, whereas paperboard is often chosen for retail product packaging, displays, and other applications where aesthetics are more crucial than high durability.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Shipping containers.
Consumer goods packaging.
Composition
Kraft or recycled fibers.
Virgin or recycled pulp.
Structure
Two types: linerboard and medium.
Typically single-layer.
Key Properties
High strength, durability.
Printability, foldability.
Market Focus
Shipping and logistics industries.
Consumer packaging, advertising.
Compare with Definitions
Containerboard
Necessary for the storage and transportation of large quantities of products.
Bulk products are shipped internationally using containerboard boxes.
Paperboard
A thick, flat material made from compressed fibers used in various packaging.
Cereal boxes are typically made from colorful paperboard.
Containerboard
Often composed of several layers including a fluted or corrugated layer to provide cushioning.
Containerboard packaging is essential for transporting fragile goods.
Paperboard
Lighter than containerboard and used for consumer goods rather than shipping.
Paperboard is preferable for lightweight, retail packaging.
Containerboard
Used in industrial shipping due to its high strength.
Manufacturers prefer containerboard for shipping heavy machinery.
Paperboard
Can be coated or uncoated, depending on the usage requirement.
Moisture-resistant coatings are applied to paperboard used for beverages.
Containerboard
Material used to create the structural components of corrugated and solid fiber boxes.
The factory produces containerboard that withstands heavy stacking.
Paperboard
Versatile and used in multiple packaging formats, including food and cosmetics.
Lipstick and frozen dinners both come packaged in paperboard.
Containerboard
Primarily recycled content, emphasizing sustainability.
Their containerboard is 95% recycled, reducing industrial waste.
Paperboard
Suitable for detailed printing and fine graphics.
Paperboard packaging often features high-quality graphic designs to attract consumers.
Containerboard
Containerboard or corrugated case material (CCM) is a type of paperboard specially manufactured for the production of corrugated board. It includes both linerboard and corrugating medium (or fluting), the two types of paper that make up corrugated board.
Paperboard
Paperboard is a thick paper-based material. While there is no rigid differentiation between paper and paperboard, paperboard is generally thicker (usually over 0.30 mm, 0.012 in, or 12 points) than paper and has certain superior attributes such as foldability and rigidity.
Containerboard
A corrugated or solid cardboard used to make containers.
Paperboard
Cardboard; pasteboard.
Containerboard
A form of paperboard especially manufactured for the production of corrugated fiberboard.
Paperboard
A thick paper, or thin cardboard.
Paperboard
A cardboard suitable for making posters
Common Curiosities
What makes paperboard different from regular paper?
Paperboard is thicker and more durable than regular paper, designed for packaging and graphic uses.
Can containerboard be recycled?
Yes, containerboard is highly recyclable and often made from recycled materials.
Is paperboard suitable for food packaging?
Yes, paperboard is commonly used for food packaging as it can be treated to be safe and resistant to moisture.
What does the term 'corrugating medium' refer to?
It refers to the fluted inner layer of containerboard that provides cushioning and strength.
What is containerboard used for?
Containerboard is used primarily for creating shipping containers and boxes.
What types of products are packaged with paperboard?
Products ranging from cereals, medicines, cosmetics, to electronics are packaged using paperboard.
What are the environmental impacts of using paperboard?
Paperboard, especially when made from recycled materials, has a lower environmental impact compared to many plastic packaging options.
How are containerboard and paperboard manufactured?
Both are made from pulped wood or recycled fibers, but containerboard generally has a sturdier construction.
How does the strength of containerboard support shipping?
The strength of containerboard allows it to support and protect contents during transportation, preventing damage.
Why is printability important for paperboard?
Printability is crucial for branding and consumer information, making paperboard ideal for retail packaging.
Can both types of boards be used interchangeably?
No, due to differences in strength and durability, containerboard and paperboard serve different specific functions.
How do businesses choose the right type of paperboard?
Businesses consider factors like the product weight, required durability, and the need for graphic design.
What is the main consideration in choosing containerboard?
The main considerations are strength and durability for transportation and storage.
Are there regulations affecting the use of paperboard in packaging?
Yes, regulations especially concerning food safety can dictate the types of paperboard and treatments used for food packaging.
What is linerboard?
Linerboard is the flat outer surface of corrugated containerboard.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
