FEFCO is a term often referred to in the corrugated packaging industry and can refer to the both the organisation and the code created to standardise many of the most common box and packaging solutions across Europe.

A useful tool for corrugated packaging professionals, packaging purchasers and those sourcing corrugated often refer to them as well, particularly when referring to standard boxes and solutions they regularly use in their own operations.

As we launch our FEFCO Friday on LinkedIn, a short campaign to showcase some of the boxes we create for our customers, here’s some background on who FEFCO are, why it was established and why over seven decades later it’s still got a role in our everyday operations.

What is FEFCO?

FEFCO stands for the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers. It is a non-profit organisation that represents the interests of the corrugated packaging industry across Europe. Established in 1952, FEFCO works to promote the use of corrugated board, set industry standards, and provide technical guidance to its members. The organisation is also involved in research, environmental initiatives, and the development of best practices to support sustainability and innovation within the sector.

How does FEFCO support the 21^st century corrugated packaging sector?

FEFCO supports the corrugated packaging industry in several ways. It acts as a central platform for sharing technical expertise, offering guidance on production processes, and developing standard codes for packaging design. Additionally, FEFCO actively engages in advocacy, representing the industry’s interests to European institutions, and collaborates on research projects that advance sustainability and innovation.

It provides up-to-date information on market trends, regulations, and environmental matters and helps its members remain competitive and forward-thinking within the evolving packaging landscape.

Common FEFCO codes

Some of the most common FEFCO codes are widely recognised throughout the corrugated packaging industry to identify specific box styles and designs. For example, FEFCO 0201 refers to the standard slotted box, the most common box in the world, often used for shipping and storage. It has flaps of equal length that meet in the middle when closed and can be taped in place to secure. It is an efficient and cost-effective packaging solution for a wide range of products and industry sectors and can be manufactured in a wide range of board grades depending on the products contained within.

0216 has a glued seam with crash lock base. Available in a variety of size the box has a tuck in top which doesn’t require any additional sealing. It can be made tamper evident too. Typically, it lends itself to single wall board however it can be done in heavier duty material to suit a wider range of industries.

0300/0301 is a general use box and lid which is easy to assemble and has flaps of equal length that meet in the centre of the box. It’s widely used for general purpose packaging and can be corner stapled or taped by either the manufacturer or the customer. It can be very strong when correct board grades are specified.

0427 is one-piece box with fold over sides and tuck-in lid that can be made tamper evident. It can be suitable for ecommerce with the addition of tear strips and double-sided tape.  It’s easy to assemble but hugely durable and gives great protection to products. It lends itself well to board grades up to 5mm thick but can be utilised successfully in other board grades.

In conclusion, these codes help streamline communication and ensure consistency in packaging design across Europe and continue to be a well referenced team every day by our team, our suppliers and our customers.

To download the 12^th edition of the FEFCO code – https://www.fefco.org/sites/default/files/files/styles/thumbnail/public/FEFCO%20Code_WEBprotected.pdf or, to discuss all your corrugated requirements whether you know a FEFCO code or not, simply get in touch with the team and we’ll be happy to help.