Frequently Asked Questions

Packaging products

Who typically buys boxes from American Box?

We sell popular and hard-to-find once-used and new box sizes at great prices to distribution centers, manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers, shipping and logistics companies, and more. Our categories include: Packaging & Shipping Boxes, Gaylords, and Moving Box Packs & Kits.

What other packaging products are available?

In addition to Boxes, we power supply chains of all sizes with wholesale quantities of Mailers and Envelopes, Packaging Supplies, Material Handling Products, Safety Supplies, and other sustainably-sourced packaging solutions. Our customers bundle products for additional savings. 

Why would I purchase used boxes?

Once-used boxes from American Box are carefully inspected and structurally sound boxes that companies have used once and would otherwise dispose of, overordered, or consider obsolete. Our box prices are 30-50% lower than new boxes, with the equivalent quality of a new box. We also sell new boxes at wholesale quantities.

I normally purchase new boxes. What’s your definition of a used box?

For most prospective customers who are buying new boxes, a used box may have a negative connotation. These are not boxes that show up at your door and pile up and are thrown out from e-commerce sites. These are boxes from our supply partners that have been used once, or never used at all. When they arrive at any one of our facilities, an American Box employee hand inspects each box, doing a thorough review to ensure 1) they meet our quality standards, 2) they do not have any rips or holes, 3) they are not wet or contain other residue, and 3) they are structurally sound. If the boxes do not meet our criteria, they are set aside and never make their way to a customer, and are scrapped. We only sell good reusable boxes that are structurally sound and of equivalent quality and strength to a new box. These boxes typically have 4 to 6 more turns of use to them. 

Why do some boxes have printing on them?

At any given time, we have over 5 million boxes in our inventory, many of which have some level of printing on them, as they are once-used boxes. The majority of our customers – large manufacturers, distributors, or retailers – are fine with this, as these boxes are used to pack goods for intercompany transport between fulfillment or distribution centers, so these boxes never touch end users. However, we do have a large inventory of plain brown boxes for customers who prefer no printing. For customers who require printing or unique sized boxes, we can have those boxes made. 

What are the strength qualities of a box?

There are two tests used throughout the corrugated industry to determine strength. The Bursting (Mullen) Test is related to the rough handling durability of corrugated material, as well as the Edge Crush Test (ECT), a newer standard that has achieved widespread acceptance as a true performance test that is directly related to the stacking strength of a carton. See our Corrugated Box Strength Guidelines.

How can I purchase products?

You can conveniently do many things online – purchase products, request quotes and samples, and setup auto-replenishment orders. You can also call customer service at 1-800-970-3777.

Why are your prices so low?

American Box is not a manufacturer; we’re a nationwide distributor that provides wholesale quantities on boxes and other packaging products.

What is your return policy?

Stock items may be returned for credit within 30 days of purchase. All returns are subject to a 15% re- stocking charge, plus any freight associated with the return. Custom items may not be returned for credit. Although American Box takes great care to ensure that shipments are protected, damage in transit does occasionally occur. To receive credit for damaged product, damage must be noted on the bill of lading at time of delivery and put aside for freight carrier review. All damaged goods claims must be made within 7 days of purchase. We have no minimum dollar order. Review our Terms & Conditions

Sustainability programs

Who typically sells boxes to American Box?

We pay to haul and recycle corrugated boxes (and plastic too) to support a company’s environmental sustainability initiatives. American Box has developed strong partnerships with many of the largest pharmaceutical, home goods, and retail brands – providing a second life for once-used cardboard boxes and to save them money on dumpsters, labor, and hauling. Learn more

How does your waste management program work?

Our partners achieve Zero-Waste Sustainability and get paid. We audit, track, and pay them to manage their waste stream, from corrugate, to plastics, metals, food waste, and more. Environmental sustainability is supported by monthly reports. American Box & Recycling is a one-stop-shop for environmental, health & safety (EH&S) managers, plant managers, facility managers, and others responsible for their company’s sustainability initiatives. Learn more

What other sustainability programs do your offer?

Our programs are designed to reduce environmental impact, remove costs, generate revenue, and improve efficiencies. In additional to our Zero-Waste Management program, we offer Cardboard Recycling, Sustainability Reporting, Equipment Optimization, and Green Audits & Certifications. Learn more

What equipment is available?

We have over 30 years of experience as a trusted advisor for partners on equipment to best facilitate optimized sustainability, improved efficiencies, and increased revenue generation within a facility’s waste management operation. Typical equipment packages included horizontal or vertical balers, compactors, and chippers. Through our industry-leading manufacturing partners, we couple innovative equipment and best-in-class training to deliver creative sustainability solutions. American Box & Recycling offers equipment financing or direct purchase options. Contact us for more details