RSC vs Die Cut: Which Box Style is Right for You?

What is an RSC box?

RSC stands for 'Regular Slotted Container', a term used in corrugated packaging. It is a box-shaped construction made from a single piece of corrugated fibreboard, with equal-length flaps on the top and bottom that meet in the centre when closed. They can be easily taped up and carry a variety of heavy objects of all sizes. This makes RSC boxes one of the most popular choices for shipping. In addition, RSC boxes are usually made from recycled materials.

-- Example usage of RSC boxes

RSC boxes are ideal for secondary packaging and shipping a variety of products. Here are some examples:

• Consumer goods

• Appliances

• Toys

• Office supplies

• Electronics

• Beverages

• Car and industrial products.

• Sensitive goods require additional protection, such as void fillers.

-- Key benefits of RSC boxes

RSC boxes offer numerous benefits in terms of packaging. They are durable and offer good protection for products, as well as being highly versatile. They are perfect for shipping all over the world and can be customised to reflect your brand with plain printed designs and colours.

• Economical: RSC boxes are inexpensive and do not use a lot of material.

• They are simple to assemble. RSC boxes are easy to fold and seal with tape.

• Powerful and resilient: They are constructed using corrugated materials that provide the highest level of protection and have no access points.

• Flexibility: RSC boxes can be adapted to suit various packaging requirements in different industries. The design and materials are suitable for different products.

• Fast turnaround: We offer fast quotes, a low minimum order quantity and standard sizes to meet all requirements for custom RSC boxes.

• Sustainable: They are produced using 100 percent recyclable material, making them environmentally friendly.

What is a die-cut box?

Die-cut boxes are a type of specialised packaging designed to fit your product in terms of shape and size. They are cut using a die-cutting machine, which allows for greater design freedom and structural integrity than standard boxes.

For example, they can have self-locking tabs that eliminate the need for tape, or windows that can be used to display your product for branding and presentation purposes. Die-cut boxes allow you to design customised packaging to fit your specific requirements for shipping and/or display.

--Sample applications of die-cut boxes

Die-cut boxes are highly customisable and are designed to fit your product tightly. This makes them ideal for luxury products or brands that require a unique identity. They can be used for primary and secondary packaging. Here are some examples:

• Premium skincare and cosmetics.

• Luxury electronics and devices.

• Fine food products and luxury drinks.

• Sensitive or delicate products that require special attention during transportation.

--Key benefits of die-cut boxes

Die-cut boxes have numerous advantages over ordinary boxes.

They are economical in terms of shipping: They are made to reduce material usage, minimise package size and decrease costs. The custom-fit solution offers small, cost-effective shipping solutions for products of any shape.

Maximum protection: Die-cut boxes with inserts fit tightly around products, providing better protection and an attractive appearance. They are ideal for protecting luxury items.

Customisation and branding: Die-cut boxes can be custom-made to create a distinctive and memorable unboxing experience for your brand.

Reduced waste: Die-cut boxes usually require less tape and packing material than normal boxes.

No tape is required for assembly. The carton base is simply folded and attached, requiring minimal assembly.

The choice between RSC boxes and custom die-cut boxes

Your choice should be based on the requirements of your business. Consider your budget, the nature and weight of the product, the level of protection required, how easy the box is to assemble, shipping and storage, and your customers' expectations. We have condensed the main points to help you make a decision.

--Select RSC boxes for cost-effectiveness and versatility

RSC boxes can be used to package a variety of products. They are cheaper due to reduced tooling, print plate and production costs. Customisation is available in different sizes and flutes, as well as printing on the inside and outside of the box.

--Select die-cut boxes to customise and add more protection

Die-cut boxes offer a high degree of customisation, fitting products perfectly. This eliminates the need for extra packing materials, such as tapes, and improves the unboxing experience for customers. Although die cut boxes can be more expensive than RSC boxes due to the need for specialised dies, their long-term benefits, including reusability and enhanced packaging efficiency, can justify the cost. They are ideal for high-end products, as they can be designed with uniquely shaped boxes to showcase them effectively.

--Additional considerations

We recommend using additional void fillers to pack delicate items. RSC boxes should be used alongside bubble wrap, air pillows, packing peanuts or packing paper. For die-cut boxes, custom foam or corrugated inserts are recommended.

You may also wish to explore other box styles that could better suit your needs. The corrugated master guide is available on our website.

FAQ:

--What is the difference between RSC and HSC boxes?

HSC boxes (Half Slotted Containers) are made from a single piece of corrugated cardboard, just like RSC boxes. However, unlike RSC boxes, HSC boxes are open at the top, with flaps at the bottom. This design makes it easy to access the contents and may be more cost effective due to less material being consumed.

--What is the difference between RSC and FOL boxes?

FOL boxes (full overlap slotted containers) are similar to RSC boxes in that they are made from a single piece of corrugated cardboard. However, FOL boxes are provided with flaps that overlap completely at the top and bottom, thus providing added protection and strength. This makes them ideal for heavy, delicate or expensive goods that could be damaged if mishandled. Although they are more costly and consume more material, FOL boxes are more resistant to crushing and impact.