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Box Style Identification Chart

How to recognize the common corrugated box styles by their flaps and construction, with the name used to order each one.

Ref PK-0204ASTM D5118

Draft, open for review. Check every value against the governing standard and the manufacturer’s data before use.

What it is

A box style describes how the corrugated blank is cut, scored, joined and closed. Ordering by the right style name avoids getting a box that fits the product but closes the wrong way. ASTM D5118 covers how fiberboard shipping boxes are fabricated. The European FEFCO code numbers the same styles; the Regular Slotted Container is FEFCO 0201.

How to identify

Look at the flaps. Are there flaps on both ends, one end, or none?
Close the outer flaps. Do they meet at the center, overlap, or leave a gap?
Check whether the box is one piece or two or more pieces.
Check whether it is glued, taped or stitched at the manufacturer's joint, or folds up with no joint.
Match what you see to the chart.

Common box styles

Style	How to recognize it	Typical use
Regular Slotted Container (RSC)	All flaps the same length; outer flaps meet at the center	Most general shipping
Half Slotted Container (HSC)	Like an RSC with flaps on one end only	Trays, or a box with a separate cover
Full Overlap (FOL)	Outer flaps reach the full width and overlap fully	Heavy items; rough handling; extra bottom strength
Overlap Slotted Container (OSC)	Outer flaps overlap partway	Long, narrow boxes
Center Special Slotted (CSSC)	Inner and outer flaps both meet at the center	Flat, full bottom without filler pads
Full Telescope Design (FTD)	Separate top and bottom; top slides fully over the bottom	Apparel, gifts, large flat items
Five Panel Folder (FPF)	One piece that wraps around a long, flat item	Long items such as rods or frames
Bliss box	Body plus two end panels; no flaps on the body	Heavy, stacked products; strong corners
Die-cut mailer (roll end tuck top)	Folds from one die-cut piece; no tape needed to form	E-commerce, subscription and retail mailers
Tray	Low walls, open top	Produce, display, multipacks

Key points

The RSC is the most efficient style for board use and the default in most catalogs.
Die-cut styles need a cutting die. They cost more to set up but can save labor.
Style affects how a box stacks. Full overlap and bliss styles add strength in certain directions.
Always pair the style with the inside dimensions (L x W x D), the flute and the board grade.

Common mistakes

Calling every brown box an RSC.
Ordering a mailer by outside dimensions when the maker quotes inside dimensions.
Assuming an FOL box is stronger in stacking; it mainly strengthens the top and bottom.
Leaving the style off the purchase order.

Governing standards: ASTM D5118 (fabrication of fiberboard shipping boxes); FEFCO code for international style numbers.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.

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