There are a thousand ways to dig a trench. Lucky for us, there are only two ways to measure a corrugated box. But, before you break out your trusty tape measure, we need to discuss one important piece of information.

Listing Dimensions

When it comes to calling out your measurements, you will want to list them in the following order: length, width, and height (L x W x H). It is important to follow this guideline when ordering boxes so we can deliver exactly what you need.  

Most often, the length of your box will be the longer side. The shorter side will be your width. The height, the distance between the opening and its opposite side, of your box is listed last. Keeping to this order will ensure that your opening is on the correct side.

 Now that we have that out of the way, let’s move on with how to properly measure a corrugated box.

Measuring the Inside of the Box

You will want to measure the inside of the box to make sure that your product can properly fit inside the constructed carton.

“Why can’t I just measure the outside of the box?”

I am glad you asked.

The thickness of a corrugate board can vary. The flutes, the ridges between the board surface, will determine how thick your corrugated board is. For example, if your box is made of C flute it will yield a thicker board than if it were produced with E flute. The fluting thickness in a corrugated pad does not influence the inside of the box, but merely the outside.

When providing the inner dimensions, be sure to list them like this: 10” L x 10” W x 6” H ID. Listing the ‘ID’ at the end distinguishes the measurements as inner dimensions.

Measuring the Outside of the Box

When it comes time to move, stack, store, or ship your boxes, you will need to know the outside dimensions. 

Remember how we talked about the variance in corrugated thickness? This is going to factor into your measurements now. These dimensions will also come into play when running your boxes through equipment that may erect, form, or seal the box with tape or glue.

When providing the inner dimensions, be sure to list them like this: 10” L x 10” W x 6” H OD. Listing the ‘OD’ at the end distinguishes the measurements as inner dimensions.

If you have further questions about getting the right measurements for your next corrugated box project, or you are ready to place an order, please contact us!