Short answer: choose a folding carton for everyday retail SKUs and a rigid box for gifts and launches where the box itself is part of the product.
| Folding carton | Rigid box | |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Single printed paperboard, folded by the packer | Thick board wrapped in printed paper, delivered set up |
| Shipping | Ships flat | Ships assembled and takes more space |
| Feel | Light and practical | Solid walls that hold their shape |
| Typical use | Medicines, supplements, cosmetics on shelf | Gift sets, festive editions, electronics, wine |
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