Overview
A folding box is any cardboard box made of chipboard that ships flat and needs to be assembled. When documenting or communicating the size of a folding box, it’s important to list the measurements in a consistent and universally understood order. This ensures accuracy for packaging, shipping, storage, manufacturing, and product descriptions.
The standard format for folding box measurements is:
Length × Width × Depth (L × W × D)
Sometimes “Depth” is also called “Height.”
1. Understanding Each Dimension
Using the reference image above:
Length (L)
- The longer side of the folding box opening.
- Runs horizontally from left to right when the folding box is viewed from above.
- In the image, this is shown along the bottom front edge.
Width (W)
- The shorter side across the opening of the folding box.
- Runs horizontally from front to back.
- In the image, this is shown along the right edge of the folding box.
Depth (D)
- The vertical height of the folding box. Not a dimension of an open side.
- Measured from the top edge of the opening to the bottom.
- In the image, this is indicated along the left-hand side of the folding box.
2. How to Measure Correctly
- Flatten the box, even better if you can separate the glue flap and lay the unglued box flat.
- Use a ruler or tape measure that reads in inches.
- Measure inside the box for the most accurate internal dimensions.
Measure the following:
- Length (L): Inside edge to inside edge along the longest side of the opening.
- Width (W): Inside edge to inside edge along the shorter side of the opening.
- Depth (D): From the inside bottom to the inside top edge.
3. Writing Box Measurements
Always list the dimensions in this order:
Length × Width × Depth
Example: 3 in × 2 in x 8 in
Do not rearrange the order. Even if two dimensions are equal, the sequence remains the same.
4. Tips for Clear Communication
- Always measure and speak about the inside dimensions.
- Try to measure in inches.
5. Summary
| Dimension | What It Represents | Where It Is in the Image |
|---|---|---|
| Length (L) | Longest side across the opening | Bottom horizontal arrow |
| Width (W) | Shorter side across the opening | Right-side horizontal arrow |
| Depth (D) | Vertical height | Left-side vertical arrow |
By following the L × W × D format, anyone reading the measurements will understand the exact size and orientation of the box.