Why Are My Boxes Getting Crushed?

Why Are My Boxes Getting Crushed?

Boxes get crushed when the ECT rating is too low for the load or when internal voids allow the walls to flex under stacking. Upgrade to ECT-44 (up to 50 lb) or ECT-48 double-wall (up to 80 lb), and fill voids so the box walls are rigid.

Quick facts

In-stock SKUs 12
Total options 12
Price from $8.49
Price to $71.66
Average price $26.71
Materials kraft, corrugated, bubble, plastic, paper
Strengths ECT-48, ECT-44
Pack quantities 15, 25

In-stock options

When to use

  • Fixing a recurring damage, cost, or throughput issue.
  • Spec'ing corrective materials before peak season.

The problem

Crushed boxes come from three causes: under-rated corrugated (wrong ECT for the weight), unfilled voids that let the walls flex, or stacking damage during carrier cross-docking.

The fix

Audit the ECT rating against your shipment weight. Fill all voids so the box walls are supported. Upgrade to ECT-44 (up to 50 lb) or ECT-48 double-wall (up to 80 lb).

Alternatives to consider

Also stocked

Frequently asked

How do I pick the right ECT?

Under 25 lb → ECT-32 single-wall. 25-50 lb → ECT-44. 50-80 lb → ECT-48 double-wall. Over 80 lb → ECT-51+ or custom freight boxes.

Does void fill really prevent crushing?

Yes. Box walls rated to handle stacking assume the interior is filled. An empty or under-filled box loses 30-50% of its effective stacking strength.

What if my supplier says ECT-32 is fine?

Carrier handling often exceeds the original test scenario. For repeat-shipped items over 25 lb, move up a rating — damage and return costs exceed the packaging delta.