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Snaplock Bottom
Strong, Practical, and Retail-Ready
Custom Snap Lock Bottom Boxes?
Click. Lock. Done.
Tuck top snap lock bottom boxes, also known as “crash lock” bottom boxes, are folding cartons with a floor formed by interlocking bottom panels during assembly. The tuck panels lock together to create a sturdy floor for the box without the need for glue. Unlike the pre-glued base of an auto lock bottom box, this style takes a few extra seconds to set up—but it’s more economical to manufacture and still provides dependable support for many products.
A Cost-Saving Alternative to Auto Lock Bottom Boxes
Snap lock bottoms are a good choice when you want more strength than a standard tuck end box but at a lower cost than an auto lock bottom. The difference in price comes from the extra manufacturing step needed to glue the base of the auto lock version. Snap lock bottoms work well for light to moderately heavy products, and they sit flat and stable on retail shelves.
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Snaplock Bottom
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✔️Easy Way to Measure
✔️ Paper Thicknesses
✔️ Types of Print Finishes
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Style
Size:
Length
Width
Depth
Height
Options:
UV
Hang Tab
Window
Volume
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18pt total costs
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18pt cost/box
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24pt total costs
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How Did We Come Up With These Costs?
Our Custom Product Box Costs Explained shows exactly what goes into your quote—and how to make the most of your product packaging budget.
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Paper Thickness
Print Finishes
Measure
Reading a Ruler
Paperboard Thickness Chart
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What's a Good Paper Thickness for My Box?
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16pt (0.016″ ≈ slightly thicker than a business card)
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Best for very small product boxes.
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Rule of thumb: footprint (floor of the box) of about 1″ × 1″ or smaller.
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18pt (0.018″ ≈ just under credit-card thickness)
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Strong enough for most cosmetics, food, and shelf packaging.
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Cost-effective and versatile — the “everyday” choice for custom boxes.
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Rule of thumb: footprint of about 2.75″ × 2.75″ or smaller.
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24pt (0.024″ ≈ credit-card thickness)
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Stiffer and more rigid, with a premium feel in hand.
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Ideal for larger, heavier, or higher-end products where strength and presentation matter.
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Rule of thumb: footprint of about 3″ × 3″ or larger.
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Cardstock.... or Paperboard?
The paper behind your packaging matters
You may have seen box specs like “18pt cardstock” online — but not all 18pt paper is created equal.
• Cardstock: A thick paper used for crafts, postcards, and invitations. It’s cheaper and technically works for light packaging — but it lacks the stiffness and durability needed for most product boxes.
• Paperboard: A stiffer material engineered specifically for packaging. It folds cleanly, glues reliably, and holds its shape to protect your product — and your brand — on the shelf.
The key is knowing what you’re buying. In retail, your product box is what closes the sale — so it needs to perform and look its best. That’s why we use a quality paperboard — so your packaging doesn’t just hold together, it helps sell what’s inside.
...And the "Crash"?
A crash lock box gets its name from how the bottom panels lock together to form the bottom of the box.
The side and back bottom panels fold inward and interlock in a woven pattern. Then the front panel (the "tongue") folds down over this base, and is pushed down until it "crashes" through the interlocked weave and into the inside of the box, which locks the floor in place. Don't worry - it's much easier than it sounds.
Why Choose Snap Lock Bottom Boxes?
When you need more than a tuck-end carton—especially for larger length × width footprints—snap-lock bottoms deliver stronger support without the cost of a glued auto-lock base.
Benefits
Snap lock bottom boxes fill the gap between tuck end and auto lock cartons—stronger than a tuck end, but more economical than an auto lock bottom.
Provides better weight support than standard tuck end packaging
Lower manufacturing cost compared to auto lock bottom boxes
Secure interlocking base requires no glue or tape
Flat, stable bottom ideal for retail shelves
Ships and stores flat to save warehouse space
Holds light to moderately heavy products
With packaging inserts and partitions, makes great kit boxes
Custom Options:
Just like its beefier auto lock bottom brother, the snap lock can be equipped with the same features that make packaging easier to use.
Tuck top lids available in straight or reverse styles
Choice of closing panel locks: friction or slit locks
Postal locks on the tuck top lid for added security
Hang tabs for easy retail hanging
Half-moon thumb tabs for easier opening and re-closing
Built-in inside partitions or product inserts for multi-item packaging
Benefits of Working with The Box Co-op
Made in the USA: Faster lead times and reliable quality control
Custom-Only Focus: Every box is made to your product’s unique specs
Retail-Ready Design: Crafted for both shelf appeal and functional strength
Sustainable Options: Recyclable and eco-conscious materials available
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Snap Lock Bottom Boxes Strong Enough for Heavy Items?
They are ideal for light to moderate weight products. For heavier products, we can discuss reinforced structures or inserts.
Do These Boxes Require Glue or Tape?
No. The interlocking flaps create a secure bottom without adhesive.
Can I Get Custom Inserts for Extra Protection?
Yes. We can create paperboard or foam inserts to keep products stable and protected.
Are Snap Lock Bottom Boxes Recyclable?
Yes. All of our paperboard boxes are recyclable, and sustainable stock options are available.