High-quality cartons according to the FEFCO standard
On our site you will find a wide selection of cardboard boxes that meet the strict FEFCO guidelines. Whether you are looking for sturdy packaging for shipping or customized solutions for special products, our boxes offer the quality and reliability you need. Discover our range and find the right packaging solution for your business.
What does FEFCO mean?
FEFCO stands for the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers and was formerly known as the Fédération Européenne des Fabricants de Carton Ondule and is now known as the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers. The organization was founded in 1952 and is based in Brussels. It promotes the interests of the corrugated board industry in both technical and economic matters.
Among other things, it has set itself the goal of publicizing the most important properties of corrugated board packaging. These include recyclability, sustainability, renewability and printability.
A significant contribution by FEFCO was the introduction of the FEFCO code, which is now the global standard in the production of corrugated board packaging. In addition to FEFCO codes, there are also ECMA codes that clearly describe folding cartons in a similar way. These codes relate exclusively to folding cartons and are also used for carton packaging.
The FEFCO-Codes explained
The FEFCO code consists of four digits and is a global standard to uniquely identify different corrugated packaging designs. This system provides a clear and uniform method of classifying packaging, facilitating communication between manufacturers, suppliers and customers. The first two digits of the code represent the basic type of packaging, such as folding carton, lidded carton or clamshell carton. The third digit indicates the specific construction or shape of the packaging, while the fourth digit identifies additional features or variants of the design.
This clear coding makes it easy for manufacturers, suppliers and customers to identify the type of packaging and its characteristics. This facilitates production, purchasing and communication throughout the supply chain. In addition to the four digits, there are special symbols that represent important elements of the packaging, such as slits, punch-outs, flaps, cuts and creases. These symbols are crucial for the production of carton packaging as they determine the structure and functionality of the cartons. Without them, it would not be possible to fold or erect a carton correctly.
FEFCO type 01 - Standard rolls and sheets
The first group with the code 01 includes pre-cut sheets of corrugated board with the designation FEFCO code 0110 or corrugated reel board, known as FEFCO code 0100. These basic materials form the foundation of the FEFCO types and are the starting point for numerous packaging applications.
These elements can be used to create customized packaging or as a base material for other packaging designs. The flexibility of corrugated board, combined with FEFCO's rigorous standards, ensures that these base materials are both robust and adaptable. This makes them ideal for a wide range of packaging requirements, from simple disposable cartons to more complex, bespoke solutions.
FEFCO type 02 - Folding cartons / folding boxes
The FEFCO 0200 boxes are among the classic transport packaging for all types of goods and are therefore used very frequently. The classic design and probably the best-known folding box bears the FEFCO code 0201, also known as FEFCO 201. This packaging is popular with companies as it offers easy handling and a reliable structure.
To ensure that the carton is properly closed at the end and remains stable, the folding carton has inner bottom flaps and inner top flaps that meet in the middle. This creates a tight sealing edge that can be secured with adhesive tape. This feature makes the FEFCO 0201 folding carton an ideal solution for the secure transportation and shipping of a wide variety of goods.
FEFCO type 03 - Lidded boxes / slip-on boxes
FEFCO code 03 refers to a hinged-lid carton that opens at the top. This type of packaging has a lid that can be either fully or partially opened to allow access to the contents. One of the most popular representatives of this category is the slip lid carton with the code FEFCO 0330.
This type of carton is typically used for products that can be easily placed in the packaging from above and where uncomplicated access is required. Examples include applications in print shops, where printed materials need to be removed quickly and conveniently, or in fashion mail order, where clothing and accessories are easily packed and shipped. The flexibility of the hinged lid carton makes it a popular choice in many industries where a practical and user-friendly packaging solution is required.
FEFCO type 04 - Folding bags and trays
The fourth group comprises folded sleeves and trays that consist of a single blank. These packs require neither glue nor staples during production as they can be easily assembled using side slits or clamp fasteners. One advantage of this design is the continuously closed base surface, which means there are no base flaps. In addition, there are trays with special stacking lugs that enable simple and secure stacking.
These properties make the folding envelopes and trays ideal for shipping large and flat products, such as books, folders or calendars. A particularly frequently used variant of this group is the FEFCO 0426 maxi letterbox, which is ideal for shipping smaller, compact goods that still require secure and stable protection.
FEFCO type 05 - Sliding boxes
The fifth FEFCO type comprises packaging consisting of several corrugated cardboard rings that can be slid into each other, also known as sliding boxes or belt boxes. A typical corrugated cardboard ring with the FEFCO code 0501 consists of two long sides, two wide sides and a short flap that serves to hold them together. These rings can be slid into each other or combined with other packaging elements to increase stability or provide additional protection.
Due to their robust construction, these sliding boxes are also suitable as reinforcement for cardboard boxes, especially for products that require additional support. Due to their construction and flexibility, these sliding boxes can be used in a variety of ways. They are ideal for customizing packaging or serving as part of a modular system. With their ability to provide protection and stability, they are a versatile solution for a variety of packaging requirements.
FEFCO type 06 - Sturdy boxes
The FEFCO type 06 consists of sturdy boxes made up of two sides and a middle section, with the middle section serving as both base and lid. These boxes are supplied in the form of prefabricated blanks and offer a robust structure suitable for more demanding packaging requirements. The middle section is usually joined to the two side sections by wire stitching or gluing, which requires special packaging machines.
However, the additional effort of wire stitching or gluing can result in a particularly stable and durable box that can be used for heavier or more sensitive goods. This robust construction makes these boxes particularly suitable for applications where high strength and durability are required. They are ideal for products that require a reliable packaging solution and, when used correctly, can provide secure protection for the contents.
FEFCO type 07 - Ready-glued boxes
The seventh group of FEFCO basic types comprises ready-glued boxes that are supplied flat and can be set up directly without additional assembly. This makes them particularly practical for fast and efficient packaging processes. Depending on their design, they can have either a folding bottom or a diagonal bend, making assembly intuitive and quick. Some of the most popular variants in this group, such as FEFCO 0701, FEFCO 0711 and FEFCO 0713, are equipped with automatic bottoms.
This feature saves time and simplifies the packaging process considerably, which is particularly appreciated in industries with high shipping volumes. These boxes are ideal for a variety of applications and are generally strong and robust enough to ensure secure packaging. Their versatility and ease of use make them a popular choice for businesses that rely on efficient packaging and fast shipping.
FEFCO type 09 - Interior for packaging
FEFCO type 09 includes interior fittings for cardboard boxes that provide additional stability and protection. These interior fittings include partitions, inserts, dividers, dividers, compartments or padding. These elements ensure that the contents are held securely in the packaging, significantly reducing the risk of damage during transportation. Such interior fittings are particularly useful when products need to be separated or padded to prevent damage. In our store, for example, you can find bottle boxes that are equipped with compartments to transport bottles safely and separately from each other.
This special packaging method is ideal for shipping delicate or fragile goods such as glass or ceramics. FEFCO Type 09 interiors offer a versatile solution that can be tailored to different product requirements. Whether for shipping bottles, electronic devices or other fragile items, this type of packaging ensures that your products arrive safely and intact to the recipient.
FEFCO Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Here you will find answers to common questions about FEFCO. Our FAQ section is there to help you choose the right packaging and make the packaging process more efficient. If you have any further questions or need individual support, please contact our customer service - we are happy to help.
FEFCO is the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers. It develops standards and guidelines for the corrugated board and cardboard industry.
The FEFCO codes help you to understand the structure and design of packaging. This way you can ensure that you choose the right packaging for your needs.
FEFCO codes help to ensure that the packaging meets the desired requirements. They provide information on stability, foldability and other important properties for shipping.
Yes, FEFCO codes are valid worldwide and are used as the standard for corrugated packaging in many countries. This makes them ideal if you are shipping internationally.
A FEFCO code consists of four digits. The first two digits represent the basic type of packaging (e.g. folding carton or lidded carton), the third digit describes the specific construction or shape, and the fourth digit identifies additional features or variants of the design.