Printing Material · Delhi NCR
Rigid Box Board Thickness, GSM & Inserts Explained
The core board gives a rigid box its shape, the wrapping paper gives it colour and texture, and the insert holds the product. Specify these three parts separately to compare materials and quotations accurately.
Discuss your boxRead the guide ↓
Millimetres and GSM measure different things
Millimetres describe thickness. GSM means grams per square metre and describes material mass per area. Two boards with the same GSM can differ in thickness and stiffness because their composition and density differ. Do not use a fixed GSM-to-mm conversion to order a rigid box. Ask for the core board thickness, board type and wrapping paper specification as separate lines.
Is 2 mm board right for my box?
A request for 2 mm board is a starting specification, not proof that the finished box will perform well. The box size, unsupported panel span, product weight, opening style and handling route matter. The site's approximate 1.5–3 mm range describes common discussion points, not a guarantee that every thickness is appropriate or available for every job. Compare a loaded structural sample before approving the board.
Choose an insert by function
| Insert | Useful feature | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Paperboard | Folds or partitions can organize items | Strength, edge contact and product movement |
| Foam or EVA | Shaped cavities can locate individual products | Material grade, cavity depth, fit and product compatibility |
| Fabric-covered holder | A soft presentation surface | Underlying support, clean edges and fabric behaviour |
| Dividers or compartments | Separate several packed items | Count, size variation and easy removal |
The holder needs a removal path
A cavity that grips the product tightly may make it difficult to lift out. A finger recess, ribbon or accessible edge can help, depending on the item. In the pictured coin presentation box, the shaped holder defines the item space. Confirm the actual holder dimensions and removal method; the photo alone does not establish a material grade, anti-tarnish property or impact test.
Fabric, glass and sensitive products
Satin or velvet-like coverings can change the look and feel of a pack. They should not be treated as the only protection for glass. Bottles need appropriate restraint, and electronics may need product-specific protection requirements. For jewellery, do not assume a lining is anti-tarnish without supporting material information. Supply any contact, surface or handling requirements with the product brief.
Make environmental claims specific
A paper-based outer can still contain magnets, adhesives, coatings, foam and fabric. Avoid calling a complete pack plastic-free or fully recyclable unless the actual components and disposal route support that statement. If material separation or a paper-only direction is important, request it explicitly and review the construction options. Product protection and the receiving market's waste collection system also matter.
Material approval checklist
- Core board type and thickness, plus wrap and liner specification.
- Insert material, cavity layout and removal feature.
- Fit with the real product rather than an approximate substitute.
- Required material documentation and product-contact limits.
- Appearance of exposed edges, folds and covered corners.
- Packing and shipping protection for the complete order.
Questions before you order
Is kappa board the same as wrapping paper?
No. The rigid core provides structure, while the thinner wrapping paper covers its surface. Both should be specified.
Can a paper insert replace foam?
Sometimes. The product shape, weight, fragility and handling requirements decide whether a paperboard construction is suitable; review a sample.
Can I specify 2 mm greyboard?
Yes, you can request it for review. The team still needs the box dimensions, product and construction to confirm suitability and availability.
