Steps and equipment for box packing

Packing goods into boxes with case packing machines begins with a case erector. The case erector shapes a box from a flat blank and seals the bottom. The box is then filled, either manually or by machine. A case sealer closes and tapes the top of the box.

You can choose between semi-automatic machines, where an operator works with the equipment, or automatic machines, which run independently after setup. FLEX BOX and FLEX TAPE are semi-automatic. AUTOBOX10, AUTOBOX, TOP TAPE, AUTO-TAPE, and AUTO&FOLD-5050 are automatic.

The case sealer is used to close and tape the top of each box. Roller conveyors connect the machines and move boxes from one station to the next, reducing manual handling. For example, after a case erector forms and tapes the bottom, the box moves by conveyor to the filling area, then to the case sealer, and finally to the palletizing area. Each machine is set up for its specific function, so the process flows smoothly from start to finish.

Semi-automatic machines like FLEX BOX and FLEX TAPE require an operator at each box, so someone is always present to load, hold, or guide the box through the machine. Automatic machines such as AUTOBOX10, AUTOBOX, TOP TAPE, AUTO-TAPE, and AUTO&FOLD-5050 operate on their own once set up. The speed of your line depends on the slowest step, which is often the filling. If filling is done by hand, the output matches the operator’s pace. If automated, the machines can run at their rated speeds.

Case erector models for boxes

AUTOBOX10 is an automatic case erector that processes 10–15 boxes per minute, up to 720 per hour. It handles boxes 200–500 mm long, 200–400 mm wide, and 150–350 mm high. The machine picks a flat blank from its magazine, opens it, folds the bottom flaps, and applies tape to the bottom. It is pneumatic and can store up to 10 carton sizes.

AUTOBOX is an automatic case erector for 16 boxes per minute, controlled by a Siemens PLC. FLEX BOX is a semi-automatic case erector that works with an operator.

Since the AUTOBOX10 is pneumatic, it requires a compressed air supply. It can store up to 10 carton sizes, so if you switch between standard sizes, you can recall a saved setting instead of adjusting from scratch. This saves time during changeovers and helps prevent setup errors.

With any case erector, the blanks must be dry and flat. Damp or bent blanks may not open correctly, which can stop the line or cause jams. Blanks stored in humid conditions can warp, and the erector may then fail to pick or open them.

Case packing machine comparison table

The table below lists the main specifications and settings for each case packing machine. Compare output, carton size range, tape width, and features.

To use the comparison table, start by checking the type of machine: case erector or case sealer, and whether it is semi-automatic or automatic. Next, review the output per minute and the carton size range. Then check the tape width each machine uses. For example, if you need to seal boxes with 48 mm tape, make sure the machine supports this width. If a model does not list a specific figure, such as output or size range, you can find these details on the product page. This helps you choose the right machine for your boxes and production needs.

Case sealer and box taping machine options

FLEX TAPE is a semi-automatic case sealer for tape 48–72 mm, Kraft or BOPP. TOP TAPE and AUTO-TAPE are automatic case sealers for tape 48–72 mm, Kraft or BOPP. AUTO&FOLD-5050 is an automatic box taping machine that folds the top flaps and adjusts to carton width and height automatically.

FLEX TAPE is a semi-automatic case sealer, so an operator guides each box through the taping process. TOP TAPE and AUTO-TAPE are automatic case sealers, which close and tape the tops of boxes automatically once they are placed on the infeed. All three models use tape 48–72 mm wide, and you can choose either Kraft (paper) or BOPP (plastic) tape, depending on your needs or shipping requirements.

The AUTO&FOLD-5050 is an automatic box taping machine that closes the top flaps in a set order: first the front, then the rear, then the sides. It adjusts to the box width and height using air cylinders, so it can handle mixed carton sizes without manual adjustment. The box length is set with a micro switch. This is useful on lines where carton sizes change often, as the machine adapts automatically and reduces the risk of taping errors or jams from incorrect settings.

The AUTO&FOLD-5050 is designed for boxes measuring 200–600 mm in length, 150–500 mm in width, and 150–500 mm in height. It uses tape that is 48–60 mm wide, either Kraft or BOPP, and operates at a belt speed of 16 m/min. The table height can be adjusted from 600 to 850 mm to fit your packing line. It runs on 220 V power and requires compressed air. In daily use, keeping spare rolls of tape at the sealer allows for quick changes—usually taking only a minute. If the tape runs out and no spare is nearby, the line may stop while an operator looks for a new roll.

Roller conveyor options for case packing machines

The Extend stainless steel roller conveyor is 550 mm wide and can be adjusted from 1200 to 5000 mm in length. This flexibility lets you set the conveyor to match the distance between machines or workstations. For example, if you rearrange your packing area, you can change the conveyor length to fit the new setup. The stainless steel build is ideal for warehouse and production settings where durability and easy cleaning are important.

The flexible conveyor is 460 mm wide, with a length that adjusts from 1200 to 4800 mm and a height from 600 to 1000 mm. You can extend, shorten, or curve it around corners to fit your space. This is helpful if your packing line changes direction or if you need to move boxes around obstacles. For instance, on a busy production floor, you might curve the conveyor to move boxes from the sealer to the palletizing area, saving space and reducing manual handling.

The powered flex conveyor is available in 4 m or 6 m lengths and moves boxes at 15 m/min. Unlike gravity or manual roller conveyors, it moves boxes automatically, so you do not need to tilt the line or push boxes by hand. The LOADER UL1790 is made for loading and unloading trucks, with a belt conveyor 790 cm long and a roller conveyor 1000 cm long, both 80 cm wide. This setup reaches into the truck so boxes can be loaded or unloaded directly, reducing manual lifting and speeding up the process.

Parcel tape for case sealers

BOPP parcel tape is 48 mm wide and comes in 66 m rolls, available in brown or transparent. It is supplied by the box (72 rolls) or by the pallet (3024 rolls). FLEX TAPE, TOP TAPE, and AUTO-TAPE use tape 48–72 mm wide, Kraft or BOPP. The AUTO&FOLD-5050 uses tape 48–60 mm, Kraft or BOPP.

BOPP tape is made from plastic, while Kraft tape is paper-based. FLEX TAPE, TOP TAPE, and AUTO-TAPE accept tape widths from 48 to 72 mm, and the AUTO&FOLD-5050 uses tape 48–60 mm. The 48 mm BOPP tape fits all four models, so you can standardize on one tape size if you use several machines. Using the correct tape width for your sealer helps prevent jams and poor seals, which could cause boxes to open during handling.

Semi-automatic or automatic end of line packaging equipment

A semi-automatic machine like FLEX BOX or FLEX TAPE requires an operator at each box. This setup is best for lower output and frequent changes in carton size. For example, FLEX BOX is a semi-automatic case erector, and FLEX TAPE is a semi-automatic case sealer for tape 48–72 mm, Kraft or BOPP.

Automatic machines such as AUTOBOX10, AUTOBOX, TOP TAPE, AUTO-TAPE, and AUTO&FOLD-5050 operate on their own once set up. If your case packing line needs a steady flow of boxes, an automatic model can form or seal each box consistently without an operator at every step. AUTOBOX10 can handle 10–15 boxes per minute.

To decide between semi-automatic and automatic, count how many boxes you pack per hour now and during your busiest times. Compare this to the output numbers in the comparison table. For example, if your peak is 600 boxes per hour, a machine rated for 10–15 boxes per minute can keep up. If your output is much lower, a semi-automatic model may be enough, especially if you change carton sizes several times a day.

Problems can occur if the machine’s output does not match the rest of your line. If an automatic sealer is set too fast for the filling step, boxes may pile up and cause jams. If a semi-automatic machine is too slow, you might see a backlog at the packing station. Matching the machine to your actual and peak output helps keep your line running smoothly and avoids these issues.

Packing a single carton size or mixed sizes

If you pack one carton size in long runs, a machine set for that size can run the whole batch without needing to change settings, so you only spend time setting the size once.

When you need to pack mixed carton sizes, a machine that adjusts itself is more efficient. The AUTO&FOLD-5050 automatically sets width and height with air cylinders and uses a micro switch to set carton length. The AUTOBOX10 can store up to 10 carton sizes, so you can recall a size you use often instead of setting it from scratch.

To cut down on changeovers, group your orders by carton size when possible. For example, if you have several products that fit the same carton, run them together before switching to a different size. This keeps the machine on one setting longer and reduces time spent adjusting. Each changeover is a chance for mistakes, like setting the wrong size, which can cause jams or poor sealing.

What determines the price of case packing machines

The price depends on whether the machine is semi-automatic or automatic, its output per minute, whether it adjusts sizes automatically, and if it folds the flaps. Tape is the main ongoing cost. Each model’s price is shown on its product card.

Tape is sold by the box or by the pallet, depending on your needs. If a machine requires compressed air, the cost of running your compressor is part of the ongoing expense. Product cards have a Get offer button for a quote, such as for a sealer with a tape supply, and an Add to inquiry button to collect several products into one request. This makes it easier to compare options and plan your purchase.

What to check before buying case packing machines

Before buying case packing machines, check your carton sizes, how many boxes you pack per hour, and whether you pack one size or many. The tape type is important: FLEX TAPE, TOP TAPE, and AUTO-TAPE use tape 48–72 mm, Kraft or BOPP, while AUTO&FOLD-5050 uses tape 48–60 mm, Kraft or BOPP.

Before you order, list the carton sizes you use and how many of each you pack daily. Compare these to the box ranges in the comparison table to make sure your sizes fit the machines. For example, if your largest carton is 500 × 400 × 350 mm, check that it is within the range for the case erector and sealer you want. This helps you avoid buying a machine that cannot handle your main carton.

Check that you have compressed air available if you plan to use a machine that needs it, such as AUTOBOX10 or AUTO&FOLD-5050. Measure the space for conveyors and plan the flow of boxes from filling to stacking on the pallet. For example, if your packing area is narrow, a flexible conveyor can be bent to fit the space and connect your machines without blocking walkways.

After boxes are stacked on a pallet, plan how you will secure them for transport. A pallet wrapping machine or hand film is often used to keep the load together. This step is important to prevent boxes from shifting or falling during shipping. Planning the full process from carton forming to pallet wrapping helps avoid delays and keeps your goods safe in transit.

Questions about case packing machines

Should I choose a semi-automatic or automatic case packing machine?

Semi-automatic machines like FLEX BOX and FLEX TAPE require an operator. Automatic machines such as AUTOBOX10, AUTOBOX, TOP TAPE, AUTO-TAPE, and AUTO&FOLD-5050 run on their own once set up.

Which tape can I use with the case sealers?

FLEX TAPE, TOP TAPE, and AUTO-TAPE use tape 48–72 mm, Kraft or BOPP. AUTO&FOLD-5050 uses tape 48–60 mm, Kraft or BOPP.

Can the machines handle mixed carton sizes?

AUTOBOX10 can store up to 10 carton sizes. AUTO&FOLD-5050 automatically adjusts width and height with air cylinders and sets carton length with a micro switch.

Which machines require compressed air?

The AUTOBOX10 and AUTO&FOLD-5050 require compressed air. For all other machines, you can find the supply requirements on their individual product pages.