Cartons can suffer damage if they are left for long periods. By following a few simple practices, you can ensure that your packaging is stored safely and is ready for use when required.
In short
Cardboard packaging lasts longer when it is kept dry, flat and away from heat. Keep stock off the floor and away from damp walls and loading bays, stack it within safe limits and always use the oldest boxes first.
Lift Stock Off the Floor
Cardboard packaging deteriorates rapidly if stored incorrectly. Simple storage habits ensure that your packaging stock does not weaken or become warped over time.
Avoid Damp Areas
Storage near external walls, loading bays and areas where there is drainage from roofs and walls contain higher humidity. Therefore storage areas should be kept as dry as possible and well ventilated.
Stack Flat and Within Safe Limits
Stack your cardboard packaging flat rather than on edge and ensure you are not stacking boxes too high. Follow safe stacking and storage in warehouses to avoid collapse and crushing.
Keep Away From Heat and Sunlight
Avoid storing boxes near sources of heat and, where possible, store away from direct sunlight, such as near skylights and south-facing walls.
Rotate Your Stock
Use the oldest boxes first, so the oldest delivery is always the next one to be used.
If you are still deciding what to order, our beginner’s guide to buying cardboard boxes is a useful place to start.
If you want Cardboard Packaging, Packaging from Caps Cases is a good place to start.
Good storage practices are free and help to ensure all boxes are used.
FAQs
How long can cardboard boxes be stored?
There is no fixed shelf life. Boxes kept dry, flat and out of sunlight can stay usable for a long time, but check older stock for softness, warping or bowed panels before you pack anything heavy in it.
Is it better to store boxes flat-packed or made up?
Flat-packed boxes take up far less room and are much harder to crush, so keep them flat until you need them. Made-up boxes waste space and are easily knocked out of shape.
Why does damp matter so much for cardboard?
Cardboard soaks up moisture from the air, and as it does it loses stiffness and stacking strength. A box that looks fine can fail under load once it has absorbed damp, which is why ventilation matters as much as keeping water off it.
Can boxes that have got damp still be used?
Lightly damp boxes may dry out, but they rarely get back their original strength. Use them for light items only, and recycle any that are warped, stained or showing signs of mould.