Discover the Reverse Tuck Box and Other Key Packaging Types

An auto-bottom box, also called an auto-lock bottom carton, is a folding carton with a pre-glued base that locks automatically when the box is opened. This style is ideal for products that require both strength and fast assembly, such as supplements, skincare, cosmetics, food items, and small glass containers. Brands choose auto-bottom cartons when they need a durable structure that supports heavier products while still offering a smooth exterior for premium printing and finishing.

Auto-bottom cartons typically cost slightly more than standard tuck-end boxes because they require additional gluing during production. However, many brands find that the added structural strength and reduced fulfillment time offset the cost difference. Auto-bottom boxes can help streamline packing, reduce labor expenses, and provide better product protection—all of which make them a cost-effective option for many packaging applications.

A tuck-end box is a folding carton with top and/or bottom flaps that tuck into the box to close it. This style is lightweight, versatile, and ideal for products like cosmetics, supplements, small electronics, personal care items, and retail goods. Brands choose tuck-end cartons when they need an economical, easy-to-assemble packaging option with strong print and branding space.

Straight tuck cartons have both flaps folding in the same direction, while reverse tuck boxes have the top and bottom flaps folding in opposite directions. Straight tuck is better for display and premium presentation, while reverse tuck is more cost-efficient. Both styles offer fast assembly and are widely used in consumer packaging.

Reverse tuck boxes are a great choice for lightweight to medium-weight products that require quick assembly and cost-efficient production. Their opposing flap design makes them easy to open and close, making them popular for beauty items, supplements, CBD packaging, and small retail goods.

Reverse tuck boxes provide good strength for most small-to-medium products, but auto-bottom or crash-lock cartons are better options for heavier items such as glass bottles or dense powders. Reverse tuck excels when speed, cost, and clean presentation are top priorities.

A crash-lock bottom (also called a lock-bottom box) folds into place quickly and creates a reinforced base that can support heavier or bulkier products. This structure is ideal for items like jars, bottles, supplements, home goods, and multi-unit kits that need extra bottom strength without using corrugated packaging.

Crash-lock boxes are generally stronger because the bottom forms through interlocking flaps rather than a pre-glued mechanism. Brands choose crash-lock for the heaviest items requiring folding carton packaging, while auto-bottom is ideal for speed and efficiency with medium-weight products.

A sleeve box (or carton sleeve) is a paperboard wrap that slides over an internal tray or primary product container. This style is perfect for brands that want premium presentation, added branding space, or an elevated unboxing experience. Sleeve boxes are common for beauty sets, bakery items, gift packaging, and electronics accessories.

Sleeve boxes use less material than a full box, making them a cost-effective premium option. They allow brands to improve the look and perceived value of existing packaging while keeping material and production costs controlled. Sleeves are also ideal for seasonal versions or limited-edition packaging.

Snap-lock bottom boxes use four interlocking flaps that must be folded into place to form the bottom of the carton. This style provides moderate strength and is more economical than crash-lock or auto-bottom designs. Snap-lock is commonly used for lightweight to medium-weight products in retail, food, and wellness categories.

Snap-lock cartons offer more support than a standard tuck-end box but are not as strong as crash-lock or auto-bottom designs. They work best for items that need stability but are not overly heavy — such as sachets, small bottles, cosmetics, and dry food products.