Box Strength Basics: BCT and Bursting — What Corrugated Manufacturers Need to Know

Corrugated boxes need to survive stacking and handling. Two common measures you'll hear are BCT (box compression test) and bursting strength. They answer different questions; using the right one improves design and avoids over- or under-specification.

What BCT Measures

BCT is the load a finished box can take in compression — think of boxes stacked in a warehouse or truck. It's measured on the assembled box and reflects the combined effect of board quality, flute, dimensions, and construction. For stacking and logistics, BCT is often the more relevant number.

What Bursting Strength Measures

Bursting strength is usually measured on flat board: pressure applied until the board bursts. It's a material property and is commonly used in specs and standards. It doesn't directly tell you how many kilograms a box will hold when stacked, but it correlates with board quality.

Why the Difference Matters

Choosing the right test for your customer's need avoids over-engineering (cost) or under-engineering (failure). Warehouse stacking is better predicted by BCT; raw material and supplier checks often use bursting. Knowing both helps you quote and produce boxes that meet the actual use case.

Recording and Tracking in Production

If you run multiple grades and customers, keeping specs and test results in one place helps. ERP that ties production orders to materials and specs makes it easier to repeat runs and prove compliance. TIS BOX ERP keeps production, inventory, and costing in sync so you can focus on quality and consistency.