Corrugated boxes (cartons) are always measured the same way: Length x Width x Height (depth).

The measurements of a box refers to the inside dimensions of that box.

Die-cut boxes are made cookie-cutter style, carved from corrugated sheets in a completely custom shape and design. A standard box is made from rectangular sheets which are cut and scored into an industry-standard shape and design.

The Regular Slotted Carton is the most common style container. It is manufactured from one piece of cardboard. Lengthwise flaps meet in the middle, and inner flaps may meet depending on the particular type of box. Boxes used by moving companies are good examples of RSCs. International Box Code: 0201

The Full Overlap Carton is a variation of the Regular Slotted Carton. This box style is another one-piece box, but the outer flaps overlap the full width of the box. The FOL is especially resistant to rough handling and ideal for boxes with relatively narrow widths. For heavy loads over 50 pounds, a full overlap style (FOL) will prevent breakouts better than the RSC style. International Box Code: 0202

The Full Telescoping Carton is a two-piece box. The top piece slides over the bottom piece to form the complete box. This style of box offers extra strength for stacking. An example of an FTC would be an apple box. International Box Code: 0301

The Half Slotted Carton with cover has flaps at one end like a Regular Slotted Carton, but the other end is open. An example would be a record storage box. International Box Code: 0312

Both tests are used to measure the strength of corrugated carton materials.

The Burst Strength Test of material is the measure of force required to rupture the face of a combined board.

The Edge Crush Test is a measure of the edgewise load bearing ability of a combined board.

On the bottom of most boxes is a round, official looking design called a "box maker's seal." One of the lines in the seal will report "Gross Weight Limit." A standard box is rated to hold 65 pounds.

UPS Professional Services have produced the "UPS Box Strength Guidelines" and recommends a maximum content weight for corrugated cartons less than stated by box manufacturers, where the tests for maximum weights are reported for palletized freight environments.

Flutes are the wave shapes in the interior of the fiberboard. These flutes come in different wave sizes and can be classified as A-flute, B-flute, C-flute and E-flute.

As a general rule, the larger the flute profile the higher you can stack your cases. Most North American corrugated containers are made using B or C-flute board.