Short answer: Brimar makes set-up boxes from chipboard ranging from thin, light 30pt (0.030″) up to heavy, stiff 100pt (0.100″). The right thickness depends on your box size, how heavy your product is, and how premium you want the box to feel in the hand.

What “points” mean

Chipboard is the cardboard “skeleton” of your box. Its thickness is measured in points, and one point is one thousandth of an inch. So:

• 30pt = 0.030″ (about 0.76 mm)
• 60pt = 0.060″ (about 1.5 mm)
• 100pt = 0.100″ (about 2.5 mm)

If a supplier quotes thickness in millimeters, multiply points by 0.0254 to compare.

How to choose

The right thickness mostly depends on the size of the box. Small boxes usually use thinner board, and larger boxes use thicker board. Thicker board adds strength and perceived value. When we recommend a thickness, we look at:

• Box size: Larger boxes need thicker, stiffer board so the sides and lid don’t bow.
• Product weight: A light pastry or a scarf can sit in thin, light board. A heavy cast-iron machine part needs thick, sturdy board.
• “Hand-feel”: Thicker board feels more substantial when someone picks the box up, which adds perceived value.
• Cost: Thicker board costs more, so there’s no reason to over-build a box for a light product.
• Your brand: A delicate, elegant look and a rugged, industrial look call for different choices.

Chipboard color matters too

The chipboard color is what you’ll see on the exposed cardboard inside the box. Brimar stocks four standard colors: bright white, deep black, rich chocolate, and natural chip (tan/grey). If you want a different inside color, we can laminate a paper over the inside of the box.

Inserts use the same board

Many of our chipboard inserts (platforms, trays and die-cut inserts) also come in 0.030″ to 0.100″ board in chip, white, chocolate and black, so the inside of your box can match. Learn more on Box Inserts.

Not sure? Ask us

You don’t need to figure this out alone. Tell us what the product is, how much it weighs and how you want the box to feel, and a Custom Box Expert will suggest a thickness. You can also ask for samples of similar boxes we’ve made, or a custom sample, usually for a fee (see our FAQ). For more on materials, visit the Set Up Boxes page.

Get a quote

Send us your product details and files, or call 1-800-696-3080, and we’ll recommend the right board for your box.