What Are Multi-Depth Boxes?
Multi-depth boxes (also called variable depth boxes or adjustable height boxes) are corrugated shipping boxes with pre-scored grooves on all four sides. These score lines allow you to trim the box down to your desired height without special equipment—just cut along the score line with a utility knife.
Instead of stocking multiple box sizes for different product heights, you keep one multi-depth box that adapts to fit. This saves warehouse space, reduces inventory complexity, and helps you avoid dimensional weight surcharges.
How Multi-Depth Boxes Save You Money
1. Lower Dimensional Weight Charges
Carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS charge based on dimensional weight (length × width × height ÷ 166 for domestic shipments). Using a box that's too tall for your product means you're paying to ship air. Multi-depth boxes eliminate wasted vertical space, reducing your dim weight costs on every shipment.
2. Reduce Box Inventory SKUs
Instead of ordering five different box heights, you order one multi-depth box. This frees up warehouse space, simplifies procurement, and reduces the risk of running out of the right size at the wrong time.
3. Less Void Fill Required
When your box fits your product snugly, you use less packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or air pillows. That saves on material costs and speeds up your packing process.
How to Use Multi-Depth Boxes
- Measure your product height – Determine how tall your packed item will be
- Find the nearest score line – Multi-depth boxes have score marks every 1-2 inches
- Cut along the score – Use a box cutter or utility knife to trim all four sides
- Fold down and seal – Close the box and tape as usual
Pro tip: Mark common heights on your packing station wall for faster cutting.
Specifications
- Material: 200#/ECT-32 kraft corrugated cardboard
- Edge crush test (ECT): 32 lbs per inch
- Color: Natural brown kraft
- Score intervals: Typically every 1-2 inches (varies by box size)
- Closure: Standard RSC (Regular Slotted Container) flaps
Common Applications
- Ecommerce fulfillment – Ship varying product sizes without stocking 20 box sizes
- Warehouse distribution – Streamline inventory for B2B and B2C shipments
- Subscription boxes – Adjust box height based on monthly product selection
- Electronics shipping – Protect devices while minimizing box size
- Apparel and soft goods – Match box height to folded garment thickness
Multi-Depth vs. Standard Boxes: Which Should You Use?
| Feature |
Multi-Depth Boxes |
Standard Boxes |
| Height flexibility |
✅ Adjustable (3-5 heights per box) |
❌ Fixed height |
| Inventory complexity |
✅ Fewer SKUs to manage |
❌ Need multiple sizes |
| Packing speed |
⚠️ Requires cutting (adds 10-15 seconds) |
✅ Immediate use |
| Cost per box |
⚠️ Slightly higher unit cost |
✅ Lower unit cost |
| Shipping cost savings |
✅ Reduces dim weight charges |
❌ May oversized for product |
Bottom line: If you ship products with varying heights and want to minimize dimensional weight charges, multi-depth boxes pay for themselves in shipping savings. If you ship the same product size repeatedly, standard boxes are more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a multi-depth box?A multi-depth box is a corrugated shipping box with pre-scored score lines on all four sides so you can cut it down to a shorter height. "Multi-depth," "variable depth," and "adjustable height" all describe the same product. Prism Pak multi-depth boxes are 200#/ECT-32 kraft corrugated with standard RSC flaps. How many different heights can I get from one multi-depth box?Typically 3 to 5 heights per box, depending on box size and score interval. For example, a 12" tall multi-depth box scored every 2" gives you 12", 10", 8", 6", and 4" height options from a single SKU. Do you need a special tool to cut multi-depth boxes?No special tool is required — a standard box cutter or utility knife is all you need. The pre-scored grooves guide the blade for a clean, straight cut on all four sides, and cutting adds only about 10-15 seconds per box. Are multi-depth boxes as strong as regular shipping boxes?Yes. Multi-depth boxes are made from the same 200#/ECT-32 kraft corrugated used in standard shipping boxes, rated at a 32 lb per inch edge crush test. The score lines do not compromise structural integrity when the box is properly closed and sealed. Can you print on multi-depth boxes?Yes, but keep any printed design above the highest score line so it stays visible at every height the box can be cut to. Many shippers use plain kraft multi-depth boxes and apply printed labels or stickers after cutting instead. How much can you save on shipping with multi-depth boxes?Cutting 2 to 4 inches off box height typically reduces dimensional weight charges by roughly 15-30% per shipment. Carriers calculate dim weight as length × width × height ÷ 166 for domestic shipments, so removing unused vertical space directly lowers the billed weight. Actual savings depend on your product size and volume. Who uses multi-depth boxes?Ecommerce sellers, fulfillment centers, warehouse distributors, subscription box companies, and electronics and apparel shippers use multi-depth boxes. They are the best fit for anyone shipping products of varying heights who wants to cut both box SKU count and dimensional weight charges. Order Multi-Depth Boxes from Prism Pak
Prism Pak stocks a wide range of multi-depth boxes in popular sizes for ecommerce and warehouse shipping. We offer:
- ✅ Wholesale pricing – Volume discounts available
- ✅ Fast shipping – In-stock items ship same or next business day
- ✅ Quality materials – 200#/ECT-32 kraft corrugated for reliable protection
- ✅ Expert support – Not sure which size you need? Call us at 1-800-774-7625
Ready to reduce your shipping costs? Browse our multi-depth boxes above or for a custom quote on bulk orders.
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