Contract Packaging
Paperboard Trays
Paperboard Trays Solutions that Create Competitive Advantage
Paperboard trays are an integral part of modern packaging solutions, particularly favored for their versatility, recyclability, and lightweight properties. Here’s an extensive look into paperboard trays, covering their types, key features, benefits, applications, and environmental considerations:
-
01 Types of Paperboard Trays

- Flat Paperboard Trays: These are simple, flat surfaces with raised edges, typically used in food service industries such as cafeterias or fast food outlets for carrying items from the counter to the table.
- Corrugated Paperboard Trays: Featuring a fluted or corrugated paper layer between two liners, these trays offer enhanced structural strength and are ideal for heavier loads, such as carrying canned goods or bottles.
- Molded Paperboard Trays: Made by pressing paper fibers into a mold, these trays can be designed to fit specific items precisely, making them perfect for packaging delicate items like electronics or glassware.
- Die-cut Paperboard Trays: These are cut from a flat paperboard sheet and then folded and glued into the tray shape. They are highly customizable and can be crafted to fit any product size or shape, often used in retail packaging for a variety of products.
- Windowed Paperboard Trays: These trays incorporate a clear plastic or cellulose window, allowing visibility of the product while maintaining the structural integrity of the paperboard. They are commonly used in the packaging of baked goods or ready meals.
-
02 Key Features of Paperboard Trays
- Lightweight: Paperboard trays are light, reducing shipping and handling costs.
- Customizable: They can be easily cut, folded, and printed on, offering vast options for customization and branding.
- Strength: Especially with corrugated types, they provide significant crushing resistance and protection.
- Insulative Properties: Paperboard has natural insulative properties, making it suitable for food packaging that requires temperature control.
-
03 Benefits of Using Paperboard Trays
- Cost-Effective: Production and material costs are relatively low compared to other packaging materials like plastic or metal.
- Sustainable: Most paperboard trays are made from recycled materials and are themselves fully recyclable, supporting circular economy initiatives.
- Consumer Appeal: The natural look and feel of paperboard can enhance the product’s shelf appeal, aligning with consumer preferences towards eco-friendly packaging.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications from food to electronics due to its protective and customizable nature.
-
04 Applications of Paperboard Trays
- Food Packaging: From frozen dinners and bakery products to fresh produce and fast food, paperboard trays are used extensively across the food industry.
- Pharmaceuticals: They provide a safe and stable packaging solution for medicines, where cleanliness and product integrity are critical.
- Cosmetics: Paperboard trays are used in cosmetic packaging for gift sets or multi-pack products, providing an attractive presentation and protection.
- Electronics: Molded paperboard trays are commonly used to hold components securely in place, protecting them during shipping and handling.
- Agriculture: Used for transporting and storing fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring products are ventilated and protected until they reach the consumer.
-
05 Environmental Considerations
- Recyclability: Paperboard trays are typically made from recycled content and are themselves widely recyclable, reducing landfill waste.
- Biodegradability: Unlike plastics, paperboard will naturally decompose, which reduces its environmental impact when not recycled.
- Resource Use: Manufacturing paperboard trays requires less energy and water than plastic production, especially when using post-consumer recycled content.
- Carbon Footprint: The use of local and recycled materials can significantly lower the carbon footprint associated with the production and disposal of paperboard trays.
Your Gateway to Paperboard Trays Solutions
CoPack Connect can connect brands with contract packagers that offer paperboard trays. We make it easy for businesses to find the right manufacturer for their needs and provide the tools and resources they need to manage their paperboard trays projects successfully.
2000+
Manufacturers







