Market Overview:

The U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market size is estimated to reach $39 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period 2025-2031, according to a recent report published by IndustryARC, titled, “U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market– By Product Type (Single-Wall, Double-Wall, Triple-Wall, Corrugated Sheets and Pads), By Material Type (Virgin Fiber Corrugated Board, Recycled Fiber Corrugated Board, Coated Corrugated Board), By Flute Type (A-Flute, B-Flute, C-Flute, E-Flute, F-Flute), By Printing Technology (Lithography, Flexography, Digital Printing, Rotogravure, Others), By Packaging Design (Regular Slotted Containers (RSC), Die-Cut Boxes, Half-Slotted Containers, Full Overlap Containers (FOL), Others), By Grammage (Up to 300gsm, 300gsm to 400gsm, 400gsm to 500gsm, Above 500gsm), By Application (Shipping and Transportation, Retail Packaging, Industrial Packaging, Consumer Goods Packaging, Others), By End Use Industry (E-Commerce, Food and Beverage, Electronics & Consumer Durables, Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare, Automotive, Personal Care & Cosmetics, Others) - Opportunity Analysis & Industry Forecast, 2025-2031.”

Corrugated packaging is in demand to ship products directly to consumers due to the expansion of e commerce. The market is driven by sustainability trends as recyclable and biodegradable corrugated cardboard matches eco-friendly preferences. The adoption of versatile packaging solutions is driven by customization and branding needs for the purpose of increasing brand visibility. Corrugated packaging is key to processed food industry growth because it ensures safe transportation and storage. As for technological advancements, digital printing which results in better tracking and smart packaging features also increased demand.

Shipping and Transportation Dominated the Market in 2024:

Shipping and Transportation is the largest application in the U.S. corrugated cardboard market due to increasing shipment volumes and strong growth forecasts, driving demand for durable and sustainable packaging solutions. The U.S. Department of Transportation projects total shipments will grow by 37.2%, increasing from 21,072 million tons in 2025 to 28,890 million tons by 2050. Domestic shipments, which account for the majority of the market, are expected to rise by 35.1%, from 18,443 million tons to 24,911 million tons. Export and import volumes are also projected to grow substantially, with exports increasing 56.5%, from 1,379 to 2,158 million tons, and imports rising 45.3%, from 1,250 to 1,821 million tons. Despite ongoing changes in the shipping industry, corrugated cardboard remains indispensable due to its lightweight, durable, and cost-efficient properties, which ensure the safe and reliable transport of goods. The consistent growth of the sector highlights the critical role of corrugated packaging in adapting to evolving logistics and trade infrastructure.

U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market: Key Takeaways 

Processed Food Industry Growth 

The rapid expansion of the processed food industry is a significant driver of the U.S. corrugated cardboard market, as it generates substantial demand for innovative and reliable packaging solutions. According to Ballard Brief, 73% of food items on American grocery store shelves are ultra processed, and that the U.S. is the leader in consumption of these products worldwide. Given this high consumption rate, robust and efficient packaging materials are required to protect, store, and transport these products. Corrugated cardboard is the go-to choice because it is durable, sustainable and cost effective, and is a necessity for food manufacturers. In addition, with the processed food sector growing, fueled by consumer demand for convenience, the requirement for custom branding and functional packaging also grows. As a result, corrugated cardboard is a key element in the growth of the processed food industry and in satisfying changing consumer expectations.

For More Queries About "U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market" @ https://www.industryarc.com/reports/request-quote?id=800861

Customization and Branding 

Customization and branding are the key drivers in the U.S. corrugated cardboard market allowing businesses to differentiate their products and increase customer engagement. According to Sourcepak, custom packaging, is open to businesses of all sizes and offers practical, aesthetic and financial benefits. Using branded packaging is a great way to make products stand out and visual elements like colors can boost recognition by up to 80% and help create an unforgettable first impression, as per Sourcepack. Additionally, custom designs can also be used as a gift box which allows for social media exposure from unboxing videos. 79% of viewers are inclined to explore the products featured in the very high quality and attractive packaging, so the user generated content has a great influence on the consumer behavior. The market is expanding as a result of businesses adopting corrugated cardboard packaging solutions, which are inexpensive and highly customisable due to rising awareness of the advantages of branding and personalization. 

Scope of the Report: 

      Report Metric

                    Details

Base Year Considered

2024

Forecast Period

2025-2031

CAGR

3.6%

Market Size in 2031

$39 Billion

Segments Covered

By Product Type, By Material Type, By Flute Type, By Printing Technology, By Packaging Design, By Grammage, By Application, By End Use Industry

 

Key Market Players

  1. International Paper
  2. WestRock Company
  3. Packaging Corporation of America (PCA)
  4. Georgia-Pacific LLC
  5. Pratt Industries
  6. Smurfit Kappa Group
  7. Acme Corrugated Box Co., Inc.
  8. Graphic Packaging International
  9. Menasha Packaging Company
  10. Greif, Inc.

Recent Developments:

  • In January 2025, International Paper finalized its acquisition of DS Smith, forming a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. This strategic move strengthens its market presence in North America and Europe, enhancing innovation and customer values.
  • In October 2024, Atlantic Packaging Products Ltd. inaugurated a new manufacturing plant in Hamilton, Ontario, to meet growing customer demand across North America. Focused on sustainability, the facility supports local supply chains in the food and beverage sector, creating jobs and enhancing the company’s packaging, printing and recycling capabilities.


U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market: Competitive Landscape

Key companies profiled in the U.S Corrugated Cardboard Market are International Paper, WestRock Company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), Georgia-Pacific LLC, Pratt Industries, Smurfit Kappa Group, Acme Corrugated Box Co., Inc., Graphic Packaging International, Menasha Packaging Company, Greif, Inc. and others.

Related Reports:

Corrugated Boxes Market – The Corrugated Boxes Market size is forecast to reach US$85 billion by 2030 after growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during 2023-2030. This growth is largely fueled by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions across various industries.

Ecommerce Packaging Market – Ecommerce Packaging Market size is estimated to reach $123 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.4% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Key factors driving growth include the increasing adoption of online shopping, which has led to a surge in demand for sustainable and efficient packaging solutions. Additionally, the rise of direct-to-consumer businesses and the need for secure, lightweight, and eco-friendly packaging materials are contributing to market expansion.

Paperboard Packaging Market - The Paperboard Packaging Market size is estimated to reach US$209 billion by 2030, after growing at a CAGR of 4% during the forecast period 2025-2031. The market's rapid growth is attributed to the rising demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions driven by increasing global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, supportive government policies and investments in clean energy technologies are promoting the adoption of sustainable materials like paperboard.

About IndustryARC™:

IndustryARC primarily focuses on Market Research and Consulting Services specific to Cutting Edge Technologies and Newer Application segments of the market. The company’s Custom Research Services are designed to provide insights into the constant flux in the global demand-supply gap of markets.  

IndustryARC’s goal is to provide the right information required by the stakeholder at the right point in time, in a format that assists an intelligent and informed decision-making process.

Contact Us:

Mr. Venkat Reddy

IndustryARC

Email: [email protected]

USA: (+1) 518-282-4727