
You often see cardboard used for custom vape boxes. Cardboard is light, can be recycled, and is simple to put together. Vape packaging can also use kraft paper, acrylic, or metal. But most brands choose cardboard or plastic. Cardboard keeps vape cartridge boxes and custom printed boxes safe. But it is not as strong as plastic. Plastic is strong and protects vape items during shipping. The table below shows how experts compare these materials for custom packaging:
Material | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Cardboard | Recyclable, lightweight, easy to put together, non-toxic, protects items | May not be as strong as plastic |
Plastic | Strong, protects items during shipping, non-toxic | Worries about recycling and the planet |
When you look at corrugated boxes and other materials for vape, you should think about strength, price, design, the environment, and branding.
Key Takeaways
Cardboard is light and easy to recycle. It does not cost much, so many people pick it for eco-friendly vape packaging. Plastic is stronger and keeps things safe when shipping. But plastic is bad for the environment because it takes a long time to break down. Kraft paper is good for the planet. It helps cut down on waste and pollution. This is great for brands that care about being green. Both cardboard and plastic can be changed to look special. This helps brands make packaging that is different and shows who they are. Always think about the environment and rules when picking materials for custom vape boxes.
Material Options for Custom Vape Boxes

You can pick from many materials for custom vape boxes. Each one has special benefits for vape cartridge boxes and other packaging. It is important to know the main types before you choose.
Cardboard and Kraft Paper
Cardboard is the most used material for custom vape boxes. It is cheap, light, and easy to change for your needs. Cardboard keeps vape products safe and works with many printing styles. Kraft paper is another choice. It breaks down in nature and can be recycled. Using kraft paper helps the earth. Many companies use kraft paper because it is strong and made from old paper. Kraft paper cuts down on trash and helps lower pollution.
Tip: Kraft paper matches green packaging trends. Choosing it shows customers you care about the planet.
Here are some ways kraft paper helps the environment:
Kraft paper breaks down and can be recycled.
It is often made from old paper.
You can use it to make less trash.
Kraft paper is stronger than normal paper.
Making kraft paper in good ways helps nature.
Plastic and Acrylic
Plastic is also used a lot for custom vape boxes. It gives strong protection and keeps water out. Plastic is good for shipping and keeps vape items safe. You can shape plastic in many ways for different looks. But plastic does not break down fast. It can cause tiny plastic pieces to pollute.
Acrylic gives a clear and modern style. You can see the vape product inside the box. Acrylic lets you make cool and special designs. It is tougher than cardboard and looks better than plastic. But acrylic costs more and is not as good for the earth.
Here is a table that shows how these materials compare:
Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
Plastic | Light, tough, keeps water out, saves money | Does not break down, can pollute |
Kraft Paper | Breaks down, can be recycled, easy to change, light | Not good with water, not as strong |
Acrylic | See-through, stylish, many design choices | Costs more, not earth-friendly |
Cardboard | Cheap, easy to print, light | Not as tough as plastic or acrylic |
Other Materials
There are other choices for custom packaging too. Metal makes vape cartridge boxes look fancy. Metal is strong and can be recycled, but it is heavy and costs more. Wood gives a natural look and is good for the earth. Corrugated material is strong and keeps products safe when shipping. Paperboard bends easily and comes in many styles.
Here are the most common materials for custom vape boxes:
Cardboard
Corrugated
Paperboard
Plastic
Metal
Wood
Note: All vape packaging must have child-resistant parts and clear labels. This is true for any material you pick. Both cardboard and plastic must follow FDA rules and shipping laws.
You should pick the material that fits your needs best. Cardboard and kraft paper are great for brands that care about the earth. Plastic and acrylic are good if you want strong or cool-looking boxes. Metal and wood are best for fancy vape products.
Durability and Protection
Cardboard Strength
When you pick custom vape boxes, you want your products safe. Cardboard is light and works for most vape cartridge boxes. You can add inserts or more layers to make them safer. Cardboard lets you choose from many ways to make it stronger. You can design boxes that fit what you need and still keep things safe.
Here is a table that shows how cardboard and plastic are different for durability:
Material | Durability Factors | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
Cardboard | Lightweight, protects well with inserts, flexible | Cheap, recyclable, good for printing | Not as strong for long shipping |
Plastic | Very strong, does not get damaged by water | Better for shipping, can use again | Costs more, not as good for the earth |
Cardboard does well in most drop tests. If you drop a box from different heights, cardboard often keeps vape products safe. This is true if you use inserts. Compression tests show cardboard can be stacked in a warehouse. But too much weight or water can make it weaker. If you keep vape cartridge boxes dry, cardboard stays strong.
Tip: For stronger custom vape boxes, use thicker cardboard or add inserts.
Plastic Durability
Plastic is even stronger and can be changed in many ways. Plastic does not let water in and does not break easily when shipped. This makes plastic good for sending vape products far or in tough places. Plastic boxes keep their shape and strength if you stack or drop them.
Tests show plastic does well in drop and compression tests. Plastic boxes protect vape items from bumps and drops. They also stay strong when stacked in storage. Both cardboard and plastic can have problems with water, but plastic keeps water out better.
Drop tests check if the box keeps your vape product safe if it falls.
Compression tests show if the box can be stacked in a warehouse.
Plastic gives you more ways to make boxes strong, but it costs more. Plastic is not as good for the earth, but it protects vape products very well.
If you want the strongest custom vape boxes, plastic is best. You can shape plastic in many ways for both safety and style.
Cost and Production
Cardboard Cost Factors
When you pick cardboard for custom vape boxes, many things change the price. You need to think about how big the box is and what shape it has. Bigger boxes use more cardboard and cost more money. If you want a box with a special shape, it can cost extra for workers to make it. The quality of the cardboard matters too. Stronger cardboard keeps vape cartridge boxes safer but costs more.
Printing and design also change the price. Simple printing is cheaper. If you want bright colors or shiny finishes, it costs more. How many boxes you order changes the price too. If you buy a lot, each box costs less. Custom things like windows or special ways to close the box make it look cool. These things also make the box cost more.
Here is a table that shows what makes cardboard boxes cost more or less:
Cost Driver | Description |
|---|---|
Box Size and Shape | Larger boxes need more cardboard, so they cost more. Odd shapes may need special work. |
Material Quality | Better cardboard costs more but keeps things safer. |
Complexity of Printing and Design | Different ways to print and finish the box change the price. |
Quantity Produced | Buying more boxes at once makes each one cheaper. |
Custom Features and Add-ons | Things like windows or special closures look nice but cost more. |
Cardboard is usually cheaper than plastic. Cardboard is made from old paper, so it helps the planet and makes less trash. You can change cardboard boxes easily, which saves money. Cardboard boxes follow the rules for vape packaging and help you stay safe.
Plastic Cost Factors
Plastic boxes cost more than cardboard boxes. The price depends on what kind of plastic you use, the design, and how many you buy. Plastic is light and easy to carry, so shipping can cost less. You can recycle and use plastic again, which might save money later. Plastic lets you make boxes in many cool ways.
Plastic keeps vape products safe and lasts a long time. You pay more at first, but you can use plastic boxes again. This helps you follow the rules because strong boxes keep vape items safe when shipping. Plastic boxes also meet the rules for labels and child safety.
Here is a table with the usual prices for different box types:
Box Type | Price Range (Per Unit) |
|---|---|
Cardboard Boxes | $0.70 – $6.00 |
Kraft Boxes | $0.44 – $2.25 |
Paperboard Boxes | $0.18 – $2.50 |
Corrugated Fiberboard Boxes | $0.05 – $2.93 |
Plastic boxes cost more than cardboard, but you might save money on shipping and trash. You get strong boxes and lots of design choices. You must make sure your boxes follow all the rules for vape products.
Tip: Always check the rules before picking your box material. This helps you avoid trouble and keeps your business safe.
Design and Branding with Custom Printed Boxes
Customization for Cardboard
You can make your custom vape boxes look special in many ways. Cardboard lets you pick from lots of shapes and sizes. You can use normal rectangle boxes or try fun shapes like tubes or hexagons. These shapes help your brand stand out and look different.
Here is a table that shows the main ways to change cardboard boxes:
Category | Options |
|---|---|
Materials | Cardstock, Kraft Paper, Rigid, Corrugated |
Shape and Size | Standard Rectangular, Custom Shapes, Cylindrical Tubes, Hexagonal Boxes |
Finishing | Foil Stamping, Spot UV, Gloss, Holographic Foiling, Embossing, Debossing, Matte, Soft Touch Lamination |
You can add your logo, bright colors, or cool art to your boxes. These things help people notice your vape products. Many brands use cardboard because it keeps out dust and water. You can also add ribbons or other decorations to make your box look even better.
Tip: Using things like embossing or foil stamping makes your packaging look fancy and helps people remember your brand.
Customization for Plastic
Plastic lets you be even more creative with your vape boxes. You can make plastic boxes in almost any shape you want. This helps your brand look bold and different. Plastic boxes can be clear, so people can see what is inside. This makes your product look cool and helps it get noticed.
You can put logos, names, or art on plastic boxes. These choices help you show your brand’s style and connect with buyers. You can use bright colors, fun shapes, and pictures to make your box stand out. You can also add ribbons or special ways to close the box.
Ways to change plastic boxes include:
Fun shapes and sizes
Clear or colored finishes
Custom logos and art
Ribbons and special closures
Plastic makes strong boxes and lets you design packaging that matches your brand. You can use plastic if you want your vape products to get lots of attention.
Note: The material you pick changes how your product looks and how safe it is. Choose the options that fit your brand and help your packaging stand out.
Environmental Impact of Materials
Cardboard and Kraft Sustainability

When you pick cardboard or kraft paper, you help the earth. These materials come from wood pulp, which grows back. Cardboard breaks down in nature and can be used again. Many people think cardboard is good for the planet because it does not stay in landfills long. Some cardboard is made from old paper, which cuts down on trash and pollution.
Making cardboard uses lots of water and energy. If companies do not get wood the right way, forests can be hurt. Still, most people think cardboard is better for the earth. They like that it can be recycled and breaks down. Many brands use green packaging because buyers want it.
Tip: If you want your vape brand to look green, use cardboard or kraft paper for your boxes.
Plastic and Acrylic Concerns
Plastic and acrylic are bad for the earth. Plastic is made from fossil fuels, which adds to air pollution. It does not break down, so it stays in landfills for a long time. Acrylic also takes a long time to go away. Burning acrylic lets out bad chemicals that hurt the air and health.
Here is a table that shows the main problems with plastic and acrylic:
Environmental Concern | Description |
|---|---|
Recycling Difficulties | Acrylic is hard to recycle and often ends up in landfills. |
Environmental Impact of Disposal | Acrylic and plastic do not break down and can pollute the earth for a long time. |
Air Quality Issues | Burning acrylic releases chemicals like formaldehyde, which can harm people and animals. |
You may see these problems with plastic and acrylic:
Vape boxes made from them do not break down.
They are hard to recycle and can let out bad chemicals.
Vape waste can hurt animals because of heavy metals and nicotine.
Most people think plastic is worse for the earth than cardboard. They want brands to use safer materials. If you want to show you care about nature, pick packaging that is easy to recycle and safe for the planet.
Custom Vape Boxes Printing and Finishing
Printing Techniques
There are many ways to print custom vape boxes. Each way gives a different look. Offset printing is good for big orders. It makes colors bright and clear. Digital printing is better for small orders. You do not need plates, so you can change designs fast. Digital printing lets you try new ideas before making lots of boxes. Screen printing works well for simple designs and bold colors. Flexography is best for big orders and puts ink right on the box.
Here is a table that shows the main ways to print custom vape boxes:
Printing Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
Offset Printing | High quality print, ideal for bulk printing | High volume requirements, not cost-effective for small runs |
Digital Printing | Good for small scale jobs, no plates needed | Expensive for large volumes, quality issues with color accuracy |
Flexography | Cost-effective for large quantities, direct ink transfer | Lower print quality, challenges with detailed designs |
Screen Printing | Cheap for low volumes, good for custom designs | Labor-intensive, cannot produce photo-quality images |
Pick digital printing if you want to change your design a lot. Offset printing is best for big orders and great color. Flexography and screen printing are good for simple designs.
Finishing Options
Finishing choices make your vape boxes look special. Hot foil stamping adds shiny gold or silver. Embossing makes parts of the box stick out. Debossing makes parts sink in for a cool look. Lamination puts a layer on the box to protect it. Spot UV makes some parts shiny and stops scratches. Varnishing makes the box smooth and keeps pictures safe.
Here are some ways finishing helps your vape boxes:
Spot UV makes some parts shiny and stops scratches.
Embossing gives texture and makes boxes look cool.
Lamination keeps colors bright and safe when shipping.
Finishing makes your brand look pro. It keeps vape products safe and makes boxes look nice. Customers see you care about style and quality. Special finishes help your vape boxes get noticed in stores.
Tip: Use finishing to help your brand and keep vape boxes safe when shipping.
Most companies pick cardboard for custom vape boxes. Cardboard is good for the earth, not too expensive, and easy to design. You should decide what is most important for your vape brand. Think about these things:
Cardboard and kraft are better for the planet and protect well.
Plastic is tougher but may not be good for green brands.
Picking cool designs and colors makes your boxes pop.
Ask for samples from sellers to see if they are safe and good.
Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
Quality Evaluation | Check if the box is good enough before you buy it. |
Safety Assurance | Make sure the material is safe and follows the rules. |
Aesthetic Appeal | See if the look fits your brand and what buyers want. |
FAQ
What material is best for custom vape boxes if you want eco-friendly packaging?
You should choose cardboard or kraft paper. These materials break down in nature and can be recycled. They help you lower waste and show customers you care about the planet.
Can plastic vape boxes be recycled?
Some plastic boxes can be recycled, but many types are hard to process. You need to check local recycling rules. Plastic takes longer to break down and may cause pollution.
How do you make your custom vape boxes stand out in stores?
You can use bright colors, special shapes, and finishing options like foil stamping or embossing. These features help your boxes catch attention and show off your brand.
Are cardboard boxes strong enough to protect vape products during shipping?
Cardboard boxes protect vape items well if you use thick material or add inserts. They keep products safe from bumps and drops. For extra strength, choose corrugated cardboard.
What printing method works best for small orders of custom vape boxes?
Digital printing works best for small orders. You can change designs quickly and print only what you need. This method saves money and lets you test new ideas.