Boxes Corrugated Buyer's Guide
Which Box Do You Need?
A Breakdown of 32-ECT, Gaylord, Triple Wall & More

When it comes to shipping, storing, or organizing, the box you choose makes a big difference. Not every box is built the same—and selecting the wrong one could result in damaged goods, inefficient packing, or wasted space. Whether you're sending heavy-duty industrial parts or simply organizing documents, understanding the types of boxes available can help you make smarter choices for your needs.
32-ECT Boxes: Ideal for Light to Medium-Weight Shipping
What is 32-ECT?
ECT stands for Edge Crush Test, which measures the stacking strength of corrugated board. A 32-ECT single-wall box is one of the most common options in the shipping world.
Best for:
- Light to moderately heavy items
- Standard shipping and eCommerce packaging
- Budget-conscious operations
Why choose it?
32-ECT boxes are cost-effective and versatile, making them a go-to choice for many businesses handling everyday shipments.
Double Wall Boxes with Hand Holes: Extra Strength + Easy Handling
What are they?
Double wall boxes are made with two layers of corrugated cardboard, offering higher durability. When equipped with hand holes, these boxes are easier to lift and manage, especially for bulky or heavy items.
Best for:
- Heavier, bulkier goods
- Warehouses or fulfillment centers
- Moving supplies and industrial parts
Why choose it?
These boxes provide enhanced protection and user-friendly handling—ideal for high-volume or heavy-load packaging operations.
Gaylord Boxes: Built for Bulk Storage & Shipping
What are Gaylord boxes?
These are large, heavy-duty boxes often used for bulk shipping and warehousing. They're usually pallet-sized and can be reused multiple times.
Best for:
- Bulk industrial and manufacturing sectors
- IRL product shipment (e.g., powders, parts, recycling materials)
- Long-term storage on pallets
Why choose it?
Gaylord boxes are a durable, cost-efficient solution for storing or transporting large quantities of materials.
Other Specialized Box Types to Consider
Your packaging needs might go beyond the basics. Here are a few more box types worth considering:
- Insulated Boxes - Great for perishables or temperature-sensitive goods.
- Heavy-Duty Flat Boxes - Designed for wide, flat items like mirrors or artwork.
- Telescoping Boxes - Adjustable in height, perfect for irregular or long items.
- Moving Boxes - Different sizes made specifically for special items you may want to lift up.
Box Type | Strength | Best Use Case | Reusability | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
32-ECT | Light–Medium | eCommerce, retail | Single use | Lightweight, cost-saving |
Double Wall | High | Industrial, heavy parts | Reusable | Hand holes available |
Gaylord | Very High | Bulk shipping, warehousing | Highly reusable | Pallet-sized |
Triple Wall | Maximum | Export, long-term storage | Reusable | Heavy-duty stacking |
Insulated Boxes | Medium | Food, pharma | Single use | Temperature control |
At ShippingSuppliesbyMail, we offer a full spectrum of corrugated boxes—from standard 32-ECT to reinforced Gaylord and triple wall boxes. Our inventory also includes specialty solutions like storage boxes, flat mailers, and telescoping cartons. With competitive pricing, fast shipping, and expert support, we make it easy to get the right packaging for your business. Whether you're packing light or loading pallets—we’ve got the box to match.