Custom 1-2-3 Bottom Box
The name describes the assembly. Three flaps fold in a set order and the base locks itself square without any glue or tape. It is also called a snap lock or a tuck bottom depending on who you ask, and it sits between a plain tuck end and a glued auto bottom in both cost and strength. We produce a lot of 1-2-3 bottom box work at ZEE Packaging and it suits most retail products comfortably.
Three Folds And It Holds
A 1-2-3 bottom box locks through its own structure.
- Three flaps fold in sequence and interlock
- No glue is applied during production
- No tape is needed at your packing bench
- The base stays square rather than splaying under weight
- It ships completely flat with nothing pre assembled
- Staff learn the fold within a couple of attempts
Most brands choosing a 1-2-3 bottom box want more strength than a tuck end without paying for a glued base.
Where It Sits Against Alternatives
Three options and a clear order between them.
- A plain tuck end is cheapest and weakest
- A 1-2-3 bottom holds considerably more weight
- An auto bottom is strongest and fastest to build
- Auto bottom costs more, since gluing is a separate stage
- This format needs no glue but takes a few seconds longer
- For medium weight retail products it usually hits the balance
- Standard tuck top the everyday 1-2-3 bottom box
- With a tuck and tongue lock top resisting accidental opening
- Window version showing the product through a die cut
- With a die cut insert holding contents steady
- With a hang tab for peg display
- Sleeve over version a printed band around a plain carton
Sizes We Print Regular
Every 1-2-3 bottom box is built to your product, though these run often:
- 3" x 3" x 5" for a candle or jar
- 2" x 2" x 6" for a bottle or tube
- 4" x 4" x 6" for a mid size product
- 6" x 4" x 8" for a larger item
- 2.5" x 2.5" x 4" for small goods
- 5" x 3" x 7" for a boxed set
Send us the filled weight, since the base construction is chosen against the load rather than the footprint.
Board And Print
- SBS C1S at 18pt to 24pt for most applications
- CCNB and duplex where a grey back is acceptable
- Kraft board for a natural or artisan position
- Matte, gloss and soft touch lamination
- Foil, spot UV, emboss and deboss all available
- Food grade certified stock where required
The interlock tightens as weight presses down on it, which is the clever part of this design. It gets more secure under load rather than less.
Materials Worth Choosing
- Recycled board grades, widely available here
- FSC certified stock, certificate available on request
- Soy based ink through the whole run
- No glue or tape used at all in assembly
- Aqueous coating rather than plastic lamination
- Right sizing so no board is wasted per carton
How An Order Runs Through Here
- 100 unit minimum, so a small brand can order properly
- Free 3D mockup and flat proof before anything prints
- Free dieline drawn by our own designer
- Physical sample on request to test the base under load
- Urgent turnaround at 5 to 8 business days
- Free shipping worldwide with nothing hidden
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it different to an auto bottom?
An auto bottom is pre glued and snaps open instantly. This one folds manually and costs less, since there is no gluing stage.
How much weight will it hold?
More than a tuck end by a clear margin. For anything heavy we would move you to a glued auto bottom.
How long does assembly take?
A couple of seconds once learned. Slower than an auto bottom, considerably faster than taping a base.
Does it need glue or tape?
Neither. The three flaps interlock and hold under tension, which is the whole point of the design.
Will the base pop open?
Not when specified correctly. The interlock tightens under weight rather than loosening.
What is the price per unit for a 1-2-3 bottom box?
Rough estimate is $0.18 to $0.55 per unit plain, $0.28 to $0.75 with print and $0.45 to $1.20 with finishing at moderate quantity. Volume moves it. Shipping is included in our price. This is estimate only, so ask our team for a exact quote.
Can it hold a glass jar?
At 20pt or above, yes. Below that the panel bows regardless of the base construction.
