TLDR:: 32 ECT and 200# test boxes are both corrugated cardboard boxes used for shipping, but they differ in their strength and durability. 32 ECT boxes are thicker and sturdier, while 200# test boxes are thinner and more lightweight. Understanding the differences between these two types of boxes can help you choose the best option for your shipping needs.
How do you decide which box is the right one for your products? What is the difference between 32 ECT and 200# test boxes? We’ve got the scoop.
A box is just a box, right?
Well, not quite — at least, not when it comes to keeping your products safe and making sure that you don’t pay more for shipping than is necessary. There are many corrugated boxes to choose from when sending your products, but the two favorites are the 32 ECT and the 200# test box. So, how do you decide which one to use?
Keep reading to learn more about how these two packaging options compare — and which one is best suited to your shipping needs.
Strength Testing
The corrugated cardboard industry has two standards for testing the strength of a box: the Mullen Test and the Edge Crush Test.
The Mullen Test measures the bursting strength of corrugated boxes. In other words, it tests the amount of pressure or force needed to rupture the wall of the box. Boxes that pass this standard are rated with the appropriate # or lb designation – 200#, 275#, etc.
The Edge Crush measures the stacking strength of corrugated boxes or the amount of pressure a box can withstand before being crushed. Boxes are rated accordingly with the ECT designation — 32 ECT, 44 ECT, etc.
Which Box Is Best?
In general, the single-walled 200# test box and the 32 ECT corrugated boxes are interchangeable – both have a maximum weight limit of 65 lbs. Because stacking strength has become the most important factor for most warehouses today, many opt for the 32 ECT. If you were considering a double sided corrugated cardboard box, a favorite is the 275# test (or 48 ECT) box which has a maximum weight limit of 100 lbs.
We recommend considering your priorities carefully before selecting your box of choice: if you anticipate that your boxes will experience a great deal of wear and tear, then the best packaging solution for your products may be the 200# box, since the corrugated walls hold up better to rough handling. If your products will be shipped on pallets, then the 32 ECT box will likely be the better packaging choice, since the cardboard performs better when stacked.
The type of box you ultimately decide to use will vary based on the products you are sending and the way you ship them. If you have questions, contact Paper Mart today to speak with our packaging experts, who can help you select the best packaging solution for your specific needs.
Key Takeaways:
- 32 ECT and 200# test refer to the strength and thickness of corrugated cardboard boxes
- 32 ECT (Edge Crush Test) measures the stacking strength of a box, with 32 being a common standard
- 200# test refers to the weight of the paper used to make the box, with 200 being a common grade
- 32 ECT boxes are thicker (1/8″ or 3mm) and more durable than 200# test boxes
- 200# test boxes are thinner (3/32″ or 2mm) and more lightweight than 32 ECT boxes
- 32 ECT boxes are better suited for heavier items or products that require extra protection
- 200# test boxes are ideal for lighter items or when shipping costs are a primary concern
- The choice between 32 ECT and 200# test depends on the product weight, fragility, and shipping requirements
- Both types of boxes are recyclable and commonly used in various industries
Great explanation of the difference between 32 ECT and 200# test boxes!
Your breakdown of Mullen vs. Edge Crush Test makes it much easier for buyers to understand how each standard relates to real-world packaging performance. The point about both 32 ECT and 200# being interchangeable up to 65 lbs — but performing differently depending on stacking vs. handling — is especially useful for people who often get confused between burst strength and stacking strength.
In many industries today, palletized shipping has become standard, so ECT-rated boxes definitely give a more accurate idea of vertical load-bearing strength. On the other hand, for rough supply chains where boxes face impacts or compression from multiple angles, Mullen-rated boxes still have a clear advantage.
Thanks for sharing such a clear and practical comparison — it really helps businesses choose the right corrugated box based on product fragility, weight, and logistics conditions.
Do boxes say the ECT or # on them?
I have 8″ x 10″ wooden plaques with custom medal plate inlays on them, which way 4# each. Cannot decide if 200# test or 32 ECT is the way to go. They are going into boxes that are no more than 12″ deep and will be stacked no more than four boxes high. Which will work best for handling and stacking while protecting the contents.
Hi Ken,
Thank you for your comment!
For inquiries about specific products, please reach out to our dedicated customer service team at info@papermart.com or give us a call at 1-800-788-4800. Our team is available between 6am-5pm PST and will be delighted to assist you!
I will be shipping hard plastic water bottles. Which box is best?
Hi Jared,
Thank you for your comment! For questions about specific products, please reach out to our dedicated customer service team at info@papermart.com or give us a call at 1-800-788-4800. Our team is available between 6am-5pm PST and will be delighted to assist you!
this week I saw 2000# lots of plastics ready for recycle in thick corrugated cardboard on a pallet. What would the nominal strength be of a wall that is about 3/4″ in thickness? Thanks
Hi Kenneth!
Thank you for your comment! For inquiries about specific products, please reach out to our dedicated customer service team at info@papermart.com or give us a call at 1-800-788-4800. Our team is available between 6am-5pm PST and will be delighted to assist you!
Can anyone help with recycled material content percentage in a given board strength like 275DW BC or 350DW BC or ECT 71 DW?
Is there a chart?
Hi Robert! Great question! Recycled material content may fluctuate since it will vary by the supplier and the materials available to them. On average, we’ve seen similar boxes made of 48-50% recycled material content.
For more personalized help, please give us a call at 800.745.8800, ext 2. Our Customer Care team is available Monday through Friday from 6:00AM – 5:00PM PST.
So 200# is the best for mailing，32 ECT is the best for pallet shipping and storage in warehouse?
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