The Lifecycle of a Corrugated Box: From Raw Materials to Recycling

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Corrugated packaging is one of the most sustainable and versatile materials in the supply chain. From its origins as raw paper fiber to its end-of-life recycling, every stage of a corrugated box’s lifecycle plays a critical role in minimizing waste and reducing environmental impact.

Sourcing Raw Materials

Corrugated board begins with kraft and recycled paper fibers. Most corrugated materials today are made from a mix of virgin pulp (from sustainably managed forests) and recycled content. In fact:

• All corrugated paper contains a minimum of 60% recycled content.
• Packaging can be recycled up to 6 times before the fibers break down.
• All uncoated corrugated paper is 100% recyclable.

Manufacturing & Customization

Once the paper fibers are processed into linerboard and fluting, they are combined into single-wall, double-wall, or multi-wall corrugated board. These boards are then converted into custom-sized boxes, trays, and mailers for various industries.

R&L Packaging specializes in:

• Die-cut mailers and retail-ready boxes
• Custom-printed packaging for branding and engagement
• Moisture-resistant and freezer-grade packaging for food applications

Local Manufacturing Benefits

For customers ordering from R&L Packaging in British Columbia, Alberta, or Washington, sourcing locally has significant sustainability advantages:

• Reduced CO2 emissions from transportation, compared to imported or long-distance shipments.
• Faster lead times and just-in-time inventory solutions to reduce unnecessary stockpiling.
• Locally built packaging supports regional businesses and strengthens supply chain reliability.

Distribution & Real-World Use

Corrugated boxes are engineered to withstand logistics challenges, whether by truck, rail, or air freight. Factors like stacking strength, humidity exposure, and temperature extremes impact packaging durability.

• Meat & seafood industries require moisture-resistant coatings or wax-alternative materials to maintain structural integrity in cold storage and transit.
• Produce and agriculture industries rely on stackable, high-strength trays and HSC boxes to protect fresh fruits and vegetables.
• E-commerce brands utilize custom mailers with inside printing to enhance the unboxing experience while ensuring product safety in transit.

End-of-Life & Recycling

After a box has served its purpose, the recycling process closes the loop. Recycling corrugated packaging helps minimize landfill waste and reduces the 28% of municipal waste that comes from packaging. Even reducing plastic waste by 1% makes a huge difference in sustainability efforts.

Recycled fibers go back into the paper-making process, continuing the cycle up to six times before becoming compost or biofuel. Choosing corrugated over plastic-based alternatives helps companies meet eco-friendly packaging goals while maintaining durability and affordability.

Choose Sustainable Packaging with R&L

At R&L Packaging, we prioritize sustainability, strength, and efficiency. Whether you need custom corrugated solutions for retail, food, or e-commerce, we offer local production, high-recycled-content materials, and tailored designs to optimize performance while reducing environmental impact.

📩 Get a Quote Today: Contact Us or email Sales@RLPackaging.ca to get started!