Paperboard weight is one of the first decisions in a packaging project, and one of the most consequential. Heavier doesn't always mean better — and lighter doesn't mean cheap. The right call depends on the product, the unbox you want, and how the box will travel.
11 pt — light and lean
Used for cosmetic cartons, supplements, soaps. It's stiff enough to hold shape but flexible enough to assemble fast. If your product is under 4 oz and the box doesn't need to take impact, 11 pt is the cost-efficient call.
18 pt — the workhorse
The default for most retail cartons. Substantial in the hand, rigid enough that a printed dieline holds crisp folds, and forgiving on press. We default to 18 pt unless there's a reason to go heavier or lighter.
24 pt — premium and protective
When the carton is the product. 24 pt feels like a hardback book in the hand, and pairs beautifully with embossing, foil, and soft-touch lamination. We use it for fragrance cartons, tea boxes, and gift presentation.
If you're not sure which to pick, send us your product dimensions and we'll order a free sample swatch in three weights so you can hold each before committing.