A Practical Guide to Boxes in Publishing & Games

Rigid Telescopic Box (Lift-Off Lid)

Main characteristics:

• Rigid greyboard (typically 1.5–3mm depending on size & load)
• Lid depth: half-lid or full-lid designs
• Greyboard typically 1.5–3mm
• Wrapped in printed paper or specialty cover material
• Interior fitments in foam, board, or moulded pulp
• Perfect for: Collector’s editions, board game premium editions, luxury gifts

Tuck-Flap Box

This format, very popular for card decks is a folding carton box with flaps that tuck in to close. Supplied flat, the assembly is quick and very efficient for volume production.

• Board: 250–400gsm C1S or C2S
• Closure options: front or rear tuck, locking tabs, thumb-cuts
• Additional features: hanger tab / euro slot, carry handle, viewing window

Hinged Rigid Box

This favourite for deluxe books and premium game sets is composed of a rigid box with the lid permanently attached along one edge. Satisfying, it feels like opening a treasure chest.

• Greyboard wrapped in printed or speciality paper
• Lid attached via paper or fabric hinge
• Optional magnetic closure or ribbon pull
• Secure closure without fully separating components
• Works well with EVA foam or moulded pulp fitments

Wrap-Around Lid Box

A box with a lid that sweeps around the edges for a seamless look.

• Rigid greyboard, fully wrapped
• Lid can wrap three or four sides
• Compatible with ribbon pulls or internal tray.
• Smooth exterior surface, minimal seam visibility

Slipcases (Rigid & Soft)

A go-to for special edition book sets as it protects the spine and corners of the books and allow branding to display on the shelves.

• Rigid version: Greyboard wrapped in a cover material

• Limp version: Made from C1S cardboard or heavy coated paper (e.g. gloss art paper)

• Optional thumb-cut or ribbon

• Protects book spines and corners
• Good stackability
• Outer panel offers large branding area

Pizza-Style / Mailer Box

A single-piece corrugated box with a front tuck flap: similar to an ordinary pizza box, but engineered for product presentation.

• Single-piece die-cut structure

• Often coated white before printing

• Can be gloss laminated for enhanced presentation

• Can include bumpers (2 or 4) for extra product protection in special editions

• Typically printed in 1 colour (often black) or white underlayer + CMYK

• Easy assembly and repeatable closing

Gift Boxes with a Window

A carton or rigid box with a transparent window to showcase the contents.

• Enhances visibility at retail
• Can ship flat (carton format) or pre-formed (rigid)
• Often used for stationery sets, special bundles, puzzles and gift lines.

• Folding carton or rigid board
• Window material: PET or recycled PET (RPET); plastic-free options available
• Optional inner fitments for presentation

Clamshell Box

A rigid box with a spine, opening like a book, often with internal compartments for components or books.

• Greyboard, wrapped
• Base and lid mechanically linked via spine panel
• Optional magnet closure or ribbon lift system

Matchbox-Style Box

A sliding box composed of a sleeve and an inner tray.

• Tray and sleeve work together as a unit

• Smooth sliding opening motion

A box is the first moment of your product experience. The texture, the reveal, that little suspense when it opens… it all matters. The right box protects what’s inside, tells your story, and sets the tone before your customer even sees the product.

The perfect box all depends on how you want people to feel, how the product will be used or stored, and the values behind your brand, including sustainable choices.

As you plan your next project, think about the opening moment, the materials, and how you want your audience to experience what’s inside.

Not sure where to start? We’re here to help you choose the right box for your next project.

Let’s create packaging that truly reflects your brand!