Unboxing iPhone packaging has a new-level feel – Luxury, Precision, and Simplicity. From the moment you hold the box, you can feel the sturdiness and weight of the packaging with a smooth matte or glossy finish. This experience is more than enough to define “what is a rigid box”.
It’s not just iPhones, but luxury watches, jewelry, cosmetics, perfumes, luxury gifts, and chocolates, all come wrapped elegantly in a rigid box. And so, these types of packaging boxes have a reputation for being called premium packaging.
Let’s delve a little deeper to see what is a rigid box and what makes them reputable packaging.
What is a Rigid Box?
Rigid boxes and folding carton boxes look similar, right? But why do brands choose rigid boxes over folding carton boxes? Here’s the answer.
Folding carton boxes are lightweight and will be collapsible. In contrast, rigid boxes have a sturdy shape and structure with a premium and luxurious look. It has two main components,
- Chipboard Base: Strong board with thickness from 36 to 120 points, which is 2 to 3 millimeters. This makes 4x to 5x thicker than a folding carton box.
- Paper Wrap: A thin, flexible paper layer is wrapped around the chipboard. It’s customizable and features coatings and textured printing to enhance the appeal of the brand.
When you buy Rolex watch boxes, high-end fragrance sets, and smartphone packaging, you see lined interiors that add an extra layer of elegance and protection from dust and scratches.
Types of Rigid Boxes


As you now know “what is a rigid box”, it’s also important to know the types of rigid boxes.
Types | |
Telescopic Lids | Hinged Lids |
Telescopic Lids
These boxes have lids that extend over the base either partially or nearly to the bottom.
Full Telescope Box: The lid covers the base with thumb cuts or semi-circular cutouts to lift the lid easily. The iPhone box is a perfect example with a smooth, airtight lid creating a slow-opening effect. An example of a full telescope box is a drawer-style box. It looks like traditional boxes that have slipcases going over the base of the matches.
Partial Telescope Box: The lid extends only midway down to the base, leaving it partly visible. Think of a shoebox, where the lip has a 1-inch deep lid. Examples of partial telescope boxes include the neck or shoulder that has a dual base, with the inner one higher than the other.
There are cylindrical rigid box styles that have either telescopic or shoulder-neck openings. Bottles, lotions, snacks, and other circular-shaped items can be packed in these packaging.
Hinged Lids
These boxes with a lid attached permanently to the base. Some use a magnetic strip to close while some rely on the weight of the lid.
- The flip-top box is a hinged box type where the lid simply flips open without a lip covering the base. You might have seen premium whiskey brands packed in flip-top boxes.
- Just imagine a hardcover book with a flap that extends beyond the base. The magnetic close box has a hidden magnet that snaps shut the lid. Jewelry usually comes in these hinged lid-type packaging.
- Clamshell Box has a hinged lid with a lip that partially or fully extends over the base. Board games like Monopoly and Scrabble use these types of rigid boxes to stay in place.
- Some boxes come with an inner lining – velvet, cloth, or satin. This gives a premium gift-worthy feel. High-end jewelry brands like Tiffany & Co. use velvet-lined boxes to pack their diamonds and watches.
How are rigid boxes made?

These boxes are made with paperboard that is thick and covered with decorative paper.
- Order Materials
The rigid box material is something to consider. The paper should be smooth or fancy.
You can print designs on smooth paper. Screen printing, offset printing, digital printing, or relief printing can be used to print. Fancy paper needs embossing or spot UV, as printing methods do not suit them.
- Groove
This means making fold lines. Rigid paperboard doesn’t bend easily, so the box is folded using machines that cut grooves.
- Glue
The printed paper is glued to the paperboard, with the grooves facing inside for a smooth outer finish. Magnets are added at this stage if needed.
- Forming the Box
The flat material is folded into a box shape. With the pre-made grooves, this step is easy and gives the box a sturdy, high-end look.
And that’s it—your rigid box is ready!
Different types of finish
There are two different types of finish,
Partial Finish:
Wrap only the inner edge of the box.
One piece of chipboard has fold and crease lines.
The inside chipboard should remain exposed and finished.
Use tape to secure the chipboard before wrapping.
You can apply kraft or white paint to one side of the chipboard.
Full Finish:
Wrapping boxes completely.
The cardboard material will not be revealed.
Each side of the box has a separate piece inside the chipboard.
Do not use tape when wrapping the boxes.
The chipboard is thicker, around 2-3 mm.
It’s laminated with different finishing methods.
Benefits of Custom Rigid Boxes

Why are rigid gift boxes a great option for your business?
Customizable
Custom rigid boxes are a great thing for your marketing strategy. Based on your brand, audience, and aim, you can design your custom rigid boxes. From bright or light colours, fun or professional designs, and large or small sizes, choose what suits you.
Luxury Appeal
Stand out by offering your products in the best packaging. Learn what is a rigid box, and let your customers know what is inside the rigid box. High-end, luxurious, and long-lasting impression every time.
Durability
Want High Protection? These boxes are made with thick, sturdy materials, and provide excellent protection for products, ensuring safe storage and transit.
Eco-friendly Choices
Many custom rigid boxes can be made from recycled or sustainable materials, appealing to eco-conscious customers.
Presentation
Achieve brand loyalty and trustworthiness, by offering a polished, professional look to your product.
Impress Customers with MyBox Expert
Be one of the high-end brands and step into the spot where your brand becomes the talk of the town. Choose rigid packaging from Mybox Expert.
Why?
- MyBox Expert offers fully customizable handmade rigid boxes in various sizes, materials, and finishes.
- These boxes provide both durability and elegance, making them ideal for high-end products.
- Perfect for businesses looking to elevate their brand’s unboxing experience and make a lasting impression.
- Offers bulk options at affordable prices.
Among many rigid box manufacturing spots, Mybox Expert helps you turn your custom packaging to stand out from your competitors. Let your product be someone’s memorable moment of unboxing.
Let’s Wrap Up
What is a rigid box? Now that you know, these high-quality packaging solutions are made from sturdy materials like thick chipboards and customizable finishes. Ideal for high-end products, rigid boxes provide both protection and elegance, offering businesses a chance to make a memorable impression through their packaging.
With a variety of styles and features, rigid boxes are perfect for industries like cosmetics, electronics, and luxury goods.
Make your product the highlight of a memorable unboxing experience. With carefully designed packaging, every moment of your customer’s unboxing journey will feel special and unforgettable. Create an emotional connection with your brand by providing more than just a product—offer a moment that lasts.