For shipping and packaging purposes, companies require reliable and robust products that guarantee products safely delivered to their customers. Among available choices, Normal Postal Boxes and RETF Boxes are highly favored ones in the industry. Though both of these serve as ideal solutions for packaging, both of them differ with various specifications to support respective shipping and storing purposes.
In this guide, we will see the differences between these two types of boxes, their benefits, and how to select the most appropriate one for your business.
![]() |
 ![]() |
|
Feature |
Normal Postal Boxes |
RETF (Tuck Front) Boxes |
Closure Type |
Flap with tape |
Tuck front, self-locking |
Durability | Moderate | High |
Branding Options |
Stickers, printing |
Full customization |
Aesthetic Appeal |
Basic | Premium |
Protection Level |
Standard |
Enhanced security |
Best for |
General shipping |
Luxury, fragile items |
Need for Tape |
YES |
No |
Eco-Friendly |
Moderate | High |
What Are RETF (Roll End Tuck Front) Boxes?
The RETF box has rounded flaps along the lid that easily fold into the front of the main body. The front flaps are effective in keeping the lid firmly closed, thus avoiding accidental openings. This functionality increases product security during the supply chain process.
Features of RETF Boxes:
-
Tuck Front Closure: The front board tucks in to make the contents neater.
-
Self-Locking Mechanism: In contrast to standard postal boxes, RETF boxes do not require tape, reducing packaging costs and improving appearance.
-
Premium Look: Their sleek and organized look provides superior brand presentation, which makes them ideal for premium packaging.
-
Harder and More Resilient: Typically made with premium corrugated cardboard, these boxes give more protection to fragile or expensive objects.
-
Custom Printing Options: Roll End Tuck Front boxes can be fully customized with logos, colors, and designs to provide a professional look.
Benefits of RETF Boxes:
- Gives an added layer of security with a secure tuck-front design that cannot be accidentally opened.
- Avoids the use of extra packaging tape, giving an environmentally friendly alternative.
- Gives a high-end unboxing experience, which is ideal for subscription boxes, presents, and premium products.
- Gives superior structural integrity, making them best for shipping fragile goods.
- Assists companies to develop a unique brand image by offering high-quality printing and customization of designs.
What Are Normal Postal Boxes?
Normal postal boxes, or standard mailing boxes, are commonly utilized for shipping diverse products. They are made of corrugated cardboard material.
Features of Normal Postal Boxes:
-
Flap Closure: These boxes feature common top and bottom flaps that need to be sealed with packaging tape.
-
Lightweight & Cost-Effective: Regular postal boxes are inexpensive and contribute to low shipping expenses.
-
Versatile Usage:Â Ideal for shipping a range of products, including clothing and books, electronics and accessories, and more.
-
Available in Multiple Sizes:Â Can be fitted to fulfill different packaging needs.
-
Protection:Â Offers fair protection from outside elements such as dust and low-impact shocks but might need extra cushioning for delicate objects.
Benefits of Standard Postal Boxes:
- Perfect for companies seeking an affordable packaging option.
- Similarly available and widely used by online retailers and retail companies.
- Custom branding is possible through stickers or printed designs.
- Suitable for domestic and international shipping.