Custom Retention Boxes That Hold Products Firmly in Place

What is a retention box?

A retention box is a two-part pack. The outer carton gives the shape and strength. Inside it, a fitted corrugated insert grips the product so it cannot shift.

The insert holds the item away from the outer walls. That gap acts as a crumple zone: if the box takes a knock, the outer wall gives a little before anything reaches the goods.

It is a step up from filling a box with loose paper or chips. You get the same protection on every parcel, with no guesswork at the packing bench.

How does the insert hold the product?

The insert is cut from flat corrugated board and folded into a frame. Depending on the product, it might be a cradle with a cut-out shaped to the item, a raised platform, or a grid of cells.

Cradles suit single items such as a device or a bottle. Cell grids suit sets of jars or tubes, keeping each one apart. A raised platform lifts the product off the base, adding space beneath it.

Tabs and locks on the insert hold it in shape without glue. Most designs click together in a few seconds once your team has packed a handful.

If you only need the insert for a box you already use, see our made-to-measure corrugated inserts.

Which boards are used for the outer and insert?

The insert is usually thinner than the outer. E flute at about 1.5 mm folds into tight shapes and holds small items closely. B flute at about 3 mm gives more cushion for heavier goods.

The outer box is often C flute single wall at about 4 mm. For weighty or very fragile products, BC double wall at about 7 mm gives more room to absorb a knock. Kraft or white folding board can be used for a light inner tray in a printed gift pack.

Can retention boxes be printed?

Yes, on the outer, the insert, or both. A printed insert gives a tidy reveal when the lid opens, with the product framed in the centre.

Print runs from plain board to one colour, two colour or full colour CMYK. For the finish, choose bare kraft, a matte or gloss laminate, spot UV, foil stamping or embossing.

Our designers help place artwork around the cut-outs at no charge, and you see a free digital proof before production. More branded options sit in our printed and retail box range.

How should I pack a retention box?

Fold the insert first and set it in the outer box. Lower the product into its cradle or cell, then check it cannot move when you tilt the box.

Close the outer box and seal it. Because the insert does the holding, you should not need loose filler. If you find yourself adding paper, the insert may need a small change, so let us know.

Keep a few inserts aside when you receive the order. They make handy test pieces if your product size changes later.

What mistakes happen with retention box orders?

The biggest is sending rough sizes. A retention insert works by fitting closely, so a few millimetres out can mean a loose item or one that will not go in.

Another is forgetting packaging on the product itself. If the item ships in its own retail carton or pouch, measure that, not the bare product.

Some buyers also choose a heavy double wall outer when the insert already gives plenty of space. A lighter outer can save weight on every parcel.

Is a retention box better than a box with void fill?

For fragile or costly goods, usually yes. Loose fill settles in transit, letting the product sink to the bottom. A fitted insert keeps the same position from the bench to the door.

It also speeds up packing. There is nothing to scoop or stuff, and new staff can pack a correct parcel on their first day. For lighter goods, a simple mailer may still be the better value.

It can also cut waste for your customers. A single corrugated insert is easier to flatten and recycle than a box full of mixed fillers.