Gable box
18pt SBS, integrated fold-up handle300 minimum · 8 to 10 business daysA gable box is a folding carton with a peaked, barn-roof top that folds up into a built-in carry handle, so there's no separate ribbon or handle attachment needed. We produce them on 18pt SBS from 300 units, ready in about 8 to 10 business days after proof.
When to choose it, and when not to
Choose a gable box for a takeout meal, gift item, or event favor that needs to be carried by hand, where a built-in handle beats adding ribbon or a separate handle to a plain box.
Choose a standard tuck-top carton instead if the product ships or stacks in a case rather than being hand-carried, since the peaked gable top uses more vertical space than a flat-top box and doesn't stack as efficiently.
Specifications
| Board | 18pt SBS paperboard, printed and die cut |
|---|---|
| Handle | Integrated fold-up gable handle, no attachment or hardware |
| Closure | Tab-lock sides, folds flat for storage before use |
| Offset CMYK, matte or gloss finish, foil accents available | |
| Interior | Uncoated, or greaseproof liner for food use |
| Minimum | 300 units |
| Lead time | 8 to 10 business days after proof |
| Prototype | On request; timing confirmed in your quote |
| Sizes we run | 4 x 4 x 5 in (small gift or lunch item) 6 x 6 x 7 in (standard) 8 x 8 x 9 in (larger takeout meal) |
Materials that suit it
Questions people ask
Is the handle strong enough for a heavier item like a meal or a bottle?
The fold-up handle holds typical gift and takeout meal weights well. For a genuinely heavy or liquid-filled item, ask us about board weight and handle reinforcement before you commit to a size.
Does it fold flat for storage before you fill it?
Yes, it ships and stores flat and folds up into shape, including the handle, in one motion when you're ready to use it.
Can the box handle food directly, or does it need a liner?
The board itself isn't inherently greaseproof, so for oily or moist food we'd add a greaseproof liner sheet inside. For dry goods or gift items no liner is needed.
What's the tallest practical size before the handle gets awkward?
Around 9 to 10 inches tall is where the handle still feels proportional and comfortable to carry. Any taller than that and the box starts to feel top-heavy when carried by the fold-up handle alone.
Can I get a different handle shape, like a die-cut cutout instead of the fold-up style?
The classic gable box uses the fold-up peaked handle. A die-cut handle cutout is a different structure, closer to a shopping bag box. Ask us and we can quote that as a separate option.
How does printing work on the peaked top panels?
The peaked top panels take print like any other panel. Just plan your design knowing those panels fold inward to form the handle, so avoid placing critical text right at the fold lines.
How is a gable box different from the take out box?
The gable box is an 18pt SBS carton with a peaked top that folds into a carry handle, printed offset with foil available, with an uncoated interior or a greaseproof liner for food, from 300 units in 8 to 10 business days after proof. The take out box is 18pt natural kraft made for food first: food-contact grade board with a grease-resistant coating inside, lock corners and a tuck top or gable top with a handle, printed flexo, from 200 units in 10 to 12 business days. For a hot meal, the take out box. For a gift, a bakery treat or a lunch kit, the gable box.
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Ready to price your gable box?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Your digital proof follows, usually within one business day of your artwork. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.