Strong Cardboard Boxes: Glued vs Stapled, which is Right for your Business

April 05 2023, by EJ Sinclair
4 min reading time

We all use cardboard boxes, but we can still overlook the benefits of the different styles. Whether you're moving house, shipping items, sending packages, or just need some storage, sturdy and reliable boxes are a must-have. With so many cardboard box types available, it's hard to know which ones to choose. How the boxes are held together — whether glued or stapled — does matter, and is often where cardboard boxes can fail when used in storage or during transit. While both glued or stapled boxes are strong and durable, they have unique benefits and uses. Let's delve into the details and discover what sets these boxes apart, and which is best for your business.

Benefits of Glued Cardboard Boxes

As the name suggests, these boxes are held together with glue. The glue is applied to the edges of the box to create a strong bond.

One of the best things about glued boxes is their clean, sleek look. Since there are no visible staples on the surface of the box, they're perfect for branding and displaying products. They look professional when shipping your items to customers too.
Glued boxes are also easy to stack – another tick in the right box – as there are no protruding staples that could cause damage to the boxes below. Making short-term storage less of a hassle.
The adhesive used in glued boxes is usually water-based, which is eco-friendly and easy to recycle. Always something to look out for – it's better for the environment, and a plus for your business image too.

Glued boxes do have their limitations. Though strong and reliable, they may not be as durable as stapled boxes, especially if exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. But they might still be exactly what you are looking for.

Benefits of Stapled Cardboard Boxes: Heavy-Duty and Durable

Stapled boxes, on the other hand, are held together with metal staples placed along the edges to create a secure seal. The metal staples provide extra strength and durability, making stapled boxes ideal for heavy-duty applications.

The extra strength is one of the advantages of stapled boxes. The metal staples can withstand a lot of pressure and weight. This makes them ideal for packing and transporting heavy items, such as books.
Stapled boxes are also highly durable. The staples won’t weaken over time as easily, even when exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. They’re ideal for long-term storage and for shipping items across long distances.
The metal staples can also be recycled, and you can usually leave them in when dropping off your used box for recycling (check local guidelines).

Stapled boxes do have their drawbacks. The metal staples can protrude from the surface, making them less aesthetically pleasing than glued boxes. They can also be harder to stack, as the staples can damage other boxes.

When to Use Glued Cardboard Boxes: Lightweight Items and Marketing Displays

Glued boxes are ideal for lighter items that won’t put excessive strain on the box — think clothing, linens or soft goods. They’re also good for delicate items that need protection from scratches during transport.
They’re a great option for shipping over short distances, such as local deliveries.
If you display products in-store or at events, glued boxes offer a clean, streamlined look that reinforces branding and professionalism.

When to Use Stapled Cardboard Boxes: Heavy Items and Long-Term Storage

Cardboard box strength testing and automated assembly

For heavy items, stapled boxes offer extra reinforcement. The metal staples add support during transportation or warehouse stacking.
Perfect for long-term storage: they resist moisture and pressure better than glued boxes, especially over months or years.
If you need a practical, no-fuss option, stapled boxes are up to the task.

Consider Transport and Storage Conditions: Moisture and Extreme Temperatures

Both glued and stapled boxes can be affected by extreme temperatures and moisture.

Glued boxes can become unstuck if exposed to water, although high-quality boxes use better glues to help avoid this.

Staples can rust in damp conditions, but high-quality boxes often use rust-resistant staples. In either case, quality matters.

Making the Right Choice When Choosing Your Cardboard Box

So, there you have it – the choice between glued and stapled boxes depends on what you’re packing, how it’s being stored, and how far it’s going. Weight, durability, finish and environmental factors all play a part.

At The Packaging Club, we offer a range of high-quality cardboard boxes and packaging solutions to suit your needs. Check out our cardboard boxes, including double-walled boxes for heavy goods and single-walled boxes for lighter use. If you're looking for a tailored fit, our bespoke packaging service is here to help.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to choose the right box for your needs and ensure your goods are packed and shipped securely — every time.