When running a fast food business or launching a new F&B brand, one recurring cost you can’t overlook is packaging especially burger boxes. But how much is a burger box, really?
Prices can vary significantly depending on material, size, design, and quantity. A plain kraft takeaway burger box might cost as little as $0.10, while a fully customized burger box with your logo and brand colors can run up to $0.50 per unit. If you're ordering in bulk or importing directly from manufacturers, costs can go even lower.
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What Is a Burger Box? Types & Common Uses
A burger box is a specialized container designed to hold burgers and other fast food items. These boxes come in various styles and materials, catering to different needs in the food service industry.
Standard burger boxes
- Clamshell: This type features a hinged lid that opens like a clam, providing easy access to the burger while keeping it secure.
- Tuck top: These boxes have flaps that tuck into the box, offering a snug fit for the contents.
- Hinged lid: Similar to clamshells, these boxes have a lid that is attached, making them easy to open and close.
Single burger box vs. double burger box
- Single burger box: Ideal for serving one burger, these boxes are compact and cost-effective.
- Double burger box: Designed to hold two burgers, these boxes are perfect for sharing or larger appetites.
Common uses
Burger boxes are widely used in:
- Fast food restaurants: For quick service and takeaway orders.
- Takeaway and delivery services: To ensure food remains intact during transport.
- Food trucks: Offering a convenient way to serve customers on the go.
Burger Box Pricing Overview: What Affects the Cost?
Understanding the factors that influence the cost of burger boxes can help businesses make informed purchasing decisions.
Material
- Paperboard: Commonly used materials include kraft and white board, which are both affordable and eco-friendly.
- Plastic: Materials like PS and PET are less commonly used now due to environmental concerns.
- Bagasse/sugarcane fiber: An optional mention, this material is biodegradable and suitable for eco-conscious brands.
Size & style
- Small (4”x4”): Suitable for sliders or small burgers.
- Medium (6”x6”): A popular choice for standard burgers.
- Large (8”x8”): Ideal for oversized or gourmet burgers.
- Styles: Clamshell, flat-lid, and drawer-style boxes each offer unique benefits depending on the food being served.
Order quantity (MOQ)
- Retail: Typically, a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 100 pieces is common for retail purchases.
- Wholesale: For larger orders, quantities of 500 to 1,000 pieces are standard.
- Factory price: Bulk orders of 5,000+ pieces can significantly reduce the per-unit cost.
Customization (if applicable)
- Options: Customization can include printed logos, embossing, and different finishes like matte or glossy.
- Cost impact: Customization can increase the price by $0.05 to $0.20 per unit, depending on the complexity.
How Much Is a Burger Box? Price by Category
Basic takeaway burger boxes (kraft paperboard, no print)
- Retail: $0.25–$0.35 per piece on platforms like Amazon.
- Wholesale: $0.10–$0.20 per piece for orders of 500–1,000.
Custom burger boxes with printed branding
- Price range: $0.25–$0.50 per piece.
- MOQ: Usually requires an order of 500–1,000 pieces.
- Factors: Price varies based on colors, finish, and size.
Plastic burger boxes (legacy use)
- Price: $0.08–$0.15 per piece.
- Consideration: Not suitable for eco-focused businesses and being phased out in many regions.
Premium takeaway burger packaging
- Description: Made from thick kraft board with specialty designs.
- Price: $0.30–$0.60 per piece, ideal for upscale brands.
Burger Box Price Comparison: International vs. Local
- Alibaba (China): $0.02–$0.08 per piece for minimum orders of 10,000+.
- US suppliers: $0.10–$0.35 per piece for orders of 500–1,000.
Which Burger Box Is Right for You?
For Fast Food Chains & Takeaway Shops
- Recommendation: Use affordable kraft or white board boxes.
- Size: A 6”x6” size offers the best balance of cost and appearance.
For Startups or Food Trucks
- Advice: Start with no-logo kraft boxes to keep costs low.
- Personalization: Consider adding a branded sticker for a cost-effective way to enhance your brand.
For Restaurants Needing Custom Burger Boxes
- Suggestion: Opt for custom printed boxes to improve brand recall.
- Printing options: Digital printing is suitable for lower MOQs, while offset printing is better for larger orders.
- Supplier partnership: Collaborate with a local box supplier for quicker turnaround times.
How to Save Cost on Burger Boxes
- Bulk purchasing: Buy in cases of 500–1,000 pieces to reduce costs.
- Print simplicity: Reduce print complexity to keep expenses down.
- Local suppliers: Choose local suppliers to minimize shipping costs.
- Avoid over-engineering: Unless aiming for premium positioning, stick to simpler designs.
Summary Table: Burger Box Price Reference
|
Type |
MOQ |
Price/Unit |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kraft takeaway box |
500 |
$0.10–$0.20 |
Best for standard takeaway |
|
Custom printed box |
500–1000 |
$0.25–$0.50 |
Branding & visual impact |
|
Plastic box (old style) |
1,000 |
$0.08–$0.15 |
Low cost, not eco-friendly |
|
Premium box (thick kraft) |
500+ |
$0.30–$0.60 |
Upscale brands or gourmet burger use |
|
Alibaba (bulk import) |
10,000+ |
$0.02–$0.08 |
Factory-direct pricing, high MOQ |
Final Thoughts
In summary, the price of burger boxes can vary significantly based on material, size, order quantity, and customization options. By understanding these factors, you can choose the right type of burger box that fits your budget and business needs.
FAQ Section
What’s the MOQ for custom burger boxes?
Typically, the minimum order quantity for custom burger boxes is around 500 to 1,000 pieces.
Can I get samples before ordering?
Yes, many suppliers offer samples to help you assess the quality before placing a larger order.
What’s the turnaround time for 1,000 pieces?
Turnaround times can vary, but generally, expect around 2-4 weeks for production and delivery.
Can I mix box sizes in one order?
Most suppliers allow mixing sizes in one order, but it's best to confirm with your supplier beforehand.
