FEFCO Codes - know your Cardboard Boxes from your 0427s

March 10 2023, by EJ Sinclair
5 min reading time

You may have come across the FEFCO numbers before when ordering boxes, but did you know the FEFCO code system makes it easier for you to find the right box for any application?

The FEFCO codes provide a consistent way to describe the various types and styles of boxes. The codes group the most common corrugated cardboard boxes by design. Below we will explore what FEFCO codes are, how they work, and the advantages of using them.

What is FEFCO?

The FEFCO was established in 1952 in Brussels, hence the acronym is in French. It stands for the Fédération Européenne des Fabricants de Carton Ondulé, though known usually as the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers. It is a non-profit organisation that represents the interests of the corrugated cardboard industry across Europe.

What are FEFCO Codes?

FEFCO codes are a numerical system with diagrams that identify common corrugated cardboard box styles by their structural designs. For example, some boxes have flaps while others have separate lids. A box can be made from one piece of cardboard with a join, or it might be one piece of cardboard that is folded to form a box.

There are many variations, so in the 1960s the codes were developed to avoid confusion when buying and selling corrugated cardboard boxes—especially helpful when trading across different languages.

New codes are added from time to time as the corrugated cardboard box industry evolves. In 2022, the 12^th version was released with around 200 codes.

How the FEFCO Code System Works

In the FEFCO code system, there are usually four digits. The first two digits indicate the style or type of the box, and the second two digits indicate the specific design or variation within that style.

For example, the Regular Slotted Container has the FEFCO code 0201. The first two digits, 02, indicate the style—one piece of cardboard with a manufacturer's join and flaps top and bottom. The last two digits, 01, indicate that it has two flaps on the top, and two on the bottom, and that the flaps meet in the center when closed.

As a comparison, the FEFCO code 0203 is for a box of the same style but with flaps that fully overlap on the top and bottom.

0100 FEFCO code, for rolls of material such as corrugated cardboard or solid board, used for packaging purposes. — FEFCO 01 Cardboard rolls

In some cases, there may be slight variations of a particular style. This is shown by a suffix added to the original code, such as 0201.2—typically unique to an individual manufacturer.

A Brief Description of the 9 Basic FEFCO Styles

There are many different options, especially when you include all the variations, but the 9 basic styles (based on the first two digits of the FEFCO code) are a great place to start. This gives you a clear overview of the diversity in box styles and why the coding system is so helpful.

FEFCO 0201 - slotted cardboard box — FEFCO 02 – Cardboard Box

FEFCO 01

Commercial cardboard rolls and sheets—single face corrugated cardboard used for packing and filler.

FEFCO 02

Slotted boxes—made from one piece of cardboard with a manufacturer's join and flaps on the top and bottom. They are shipped flat, which is useful when ordering in bulk. We stock and sell a wide range of 0201 cardboard boxes here.

FEFCO 03

Telescopic boxes—have separate top and bottom pieces, one of which fits over the other.

FEFCO 04

Folder boxes and trays—made from one piece of cardboard with hinges to form the walls and lid.

FEFCO 05

Slide boxes—include a sleeve that slides either as part of the box or around a separate inner section.

FEFCO 06

Rigid boxes—constructed from separate pieces that require stitching before use.

FEFCO 07

Ready-glued boxes—shipped flat and require only minimal assembly.

FEFCO 0427 pizza box style cardboard box — FEFCO 04 – Pizza Style Cardboard Box

FEFCO 08

Retail and e-commerce packaging—this includes common POS displays and online-ready packaging trays.

FEFCO 09

Interior fitments—liners, partitions, and dividers that fit inside boxes. These may accompany other FEFCO designs or be standalone items.

For official descriptions and diagrams, view the FEFCO code 2022, 12^th edition.

The Advantages of Using FEFCO Codes

Using a standardised coding system like FEFCO streamlines the supply chain, reduces confusion, and increases order accuracy. With so many variations, codes offer a universal language that suppliers, buyers, and manufacturers can all understand.

Once you’ve identified the right code for your application, you can save time when reordering, ensure better protection for your products in transit, and avoid unnecessary waste and expense. It’s a simple way to get the best fit, function, and performance from your packaging.

At The Packaging Club, we understand the importance of proper packaging. That’s why we offer a broad range of cardboard boxes that exceed box compression test standards. You can trust us to meet all your packaging needs.

Now that you know a bit more about FEFCO codes, you can confidently choose the right box styles and designs for your business. Whether it's a 0201 or a 0427, the FEFCO system helps take the guesswork out of packaging.