RSC Box vs Die Cut Box: Which Packaging Fits Your Needs Best

Looking to refine your packaging? What solutions come to your mind when you need to package your products safely and gracefully?

Whether you're in e-commerce or logistics, choosing the right shipping box can cut costs, protect products, and elevate your brand.

There come two titans RSC (Regular Slotted Container) boxes and die-cut boxes.

The big questions about an RSC box vs Die cut box. What's the difference between them? Which is better? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a die cut box compared with an RSC? What should you choose for your products or business?

This guide will break down the pros, cons, and best use cases for both die cut boxes and RSC boxes to help you pack smarter and ship better. Let's get started.

What is the RSC Box?

RSC stands for regular slotted cartons. This RSC box design, made from corrugated cardboard sheets, is a standard shipping boxes that contains four flaps of equal length on top and bottom. The outer flaps face at the center when the box is closed, giving it a versatile look.

You can easily assemble them. All you need is just a packaging tape to close its four flaps. No tool is needed. A flexible and cost-effective packaging solution that offers protection to products during transportation.

What are the Standard RSC Box Dimensions?

RSC box sizes and dimensions do vary. The standard RSC packing carton is:

• 400 x 320 x 180 mm
• 40.0 cm x 32.0 cm x 18.0 cm
• 15.75" x 12.60" x 7.09"

The most common dimensions of RSC boxes are:

Pros of RSC Boxes

RSC boxes offer several advantages. The key benefits are here.

• Cost-effective and affordable option
• Simple and easy to fold up the RSC box and seal it with tape
• Made from corrugated cardboard material, it is strong and durable and provides extreme protection
• Customizable in custom sizes and styles
• Easy to fold and unfold. Ideal for shipping worldwide
• Made from 100% recyclable material, the RSC box is an eco-friendly packaging option

Cons of RSC Boxes

The disadvantages of RSC boxes are here.

• Offers adequate protection to fragile items
• Provides less flexibility for uniquely shaped products
• A significant amount of tape might be needed to ensure a secure seal on both the top and bottom
• Can be weakened or damaged by exposure to water or moisture

Top Examples of RSC Boxes

Some RSC box examples for shipping various products are here.

• Appliances
• Toys
• Office Supplies
• Electronics
• Beverages
• Automotive and industrial products
• Fragile items (need extra protection, like void fillers)

What Are Die Cutting Boxes?

Die-cut boxes are created by cutting corrugated cardboard with a die-cutting machine or press. This process allows for the production of boxes in different sizes and shapes. The resulting boxes have a unique shape that differs from the standard RSC box style. They offer a distinct appearance and may require less tape for closure.

For added protection during the shipment of delicate products, cardboard inserts or dividers can be included within the die-cut box. These inserts and dividers help to secure and buffer the items, reducing the risk of damage during transit. Die-cut boxes are known for their ease of opening and are particularly well-suited for packaging luxury items intended for shipment, whether domestically or internationally.

Pros of Die-Cut Boxes

Die cut boxes offer many advantages. The core benefits are here.

• Time-efficient packaging solution
• Easy to cut into desired shapes and styles
• Provides better protection during storage and  transportation
• Gives a more captivating display
• Suitable for shipping delicate items

Cons of Die-Cutting Boxes

Here are the disadvantages of die-cut boxes.

• Less suitable for materials that require a longer production time
• More expensive than RSC boxes
• Warped blades may cause rough cuts
• Not ideal for all types of packaging materials

Best Examples of Die Cut Boxes

Some die cutting box examples are here.

• Food and beverages
• Apparel
• Cosmetics
• Jewelry items
• Electronics
• Point-of-Sale (POS) Displays

Read More: Packing Slips 101: How to Create an Accurate Shipping Slip

Key Differences Between RSC Box and Die Cut Box

Both RSC boxes and die cut boxes are of great importance in the packaging industry and serve many businesses. However, some differences that make them distinctive are given below in the table.

RSC Box Vs Die Cut Box:  Which Option is Better

Selecting the appropriate packaging is an essential aspect of ensuring that your product is properly preserved.

RSC Style Box

If you need an economical box that is easy to assemble and provides reliable protection for multiple products, the Regular Slotted Container (RSC) box is a suitable choice.

Die Cutting Box

If you require a box with custom sizes, shapes, and graphics, along with enhanced protection, then the die-cut box would be the preferred option. It's important to carefully assess your packaging requirements and budget to make an informed decision about which type of box aligns best with your needs.

Final Thoughts

The RSC boxes and die cut boxes serve packaging purposes and fulfill packaging demands. These box types play a critical role in modern e-commerce logistics. Here at Custom Product Packaging, we understand both types of boxes, an RSC box and die cut box. Having a large team of creative designers and packaging specialists, we aim to produce these boxes with captivating designs and thickness to ensure a smooth shipping experience. Email us at orders@customproductpackaging.com to place an order today!