What is C1S and C2S in Packaging Board?
No matter the product—whether it’s perfume boxes, pharmaceutical boxes, or boxes for retail goods—packaging plays a critical role. Significant time, thought, and investment go into getting packaging right, often at a cost that can exceed the product itself.
The carton board used must not only protect the product but also communicate its message through design, structure, and attention-grabbing graphics. Choosing the correct board is therefore essential to achieving both functional and visual success.
Depending on the design requirements and the desired look and feel of the carton box, carton board can be coated on one side or both sides.
- C1S refers to Coated One Sided board
- C2S refers to Coated Two Sides board
The coating is what allows print to appear sharp, vibrant, and visually impactful – bringing your design to life.
From retail shelves to e-commerce deliveries, carton box packaging is constantly competing for attention. Getting it right is not optional—it is critical to sales success.
How do I choose between C1S and C2S?
Here is a practical guide to help you decide:
1. Design Requirements
C1S (Coated One Side): If the inside of the box is not printed, or if an insert is used to hold the product in place, C1S is typically the best choice. The coated outer surface delivers vibrant print quality, while the uncoated inner surface provides a clean, simple finish.
C2S (Coated Two Sides): If your design extends to the inside of the box and you require the same level of colour vibrancy on both sides, then C2S is the appropriate option. It ensures a consistent, high-quality print finish throughout.
2. Luxury versus Natural Texture
C1S: The uncoated inner box side offers a more natural, slightly textured feel. Many brands use this contrast intentionally, pairing a high-impact printed exterior with a more organic interior.
C2S: With both sides coated, the board has a smooth, refined finish throughout. This enhances the perception of quality and creates a more premium, luxury feel.
3. Structural Rigidity and Strength
C1S: Because one side is uncoated, the board is often slightly firmer, even at the same grammage. This added rigidity can be beneficial for products requiring extra structural support, such as perfume boxes, especially when used with box inserts. Lamination can be added to the outside to provide further strength but often the designer prefers to leave the look natural and uncomplicated.
C2S: As these boards feel a little less rigid than the one side coated boards they are often laminated on the outside, improving durability while enhancing the visual appeal giving a more high end look and feel.
4. Sustainability and Cost
C1S: More cost-effective when printing on one side only. The uncoated inside can also contribute to a more natural or environmentally conscious perception.
C2S: More expensive due to the double coating process. However, it delivers a more premium finish and supports more complex design requirements.
Summary
Carton packaging is a key component of most retail products. Beauty, Pharmaceutical, Health, whether the carton box board is coated on one side or both, the choice of board depends on your design, structural needs, and the overall look and feel you want to achieve.
Understanding the difference between C1S and C2S ensures your packaging not only protects your product but also enhances its presentation and market appeal.
Your Next Carton Packaging Project
Remata Communications and Printers bring years of experience in producing high-quality print and packaging solutions for the South African market and beyond. With full in-house capabilities, your carton box packaging is handled with precision, care, and expertise.
We partner with advertising agencies, print brokers, and leading brands across both print and packaging.
You design it, we print it.
It’s clear why Remata is regarded as a trusted partner in commercial printing and packaging—delivering reliability, quality, and scale across every project.
Call: 011 848 0000
Email: [email protected]
Visit: www.remata.co.za
Our experienced team is ready to partner with you on your next print or packaging project.