Packaging Comparisons
Rigid Boxes vs Folding Cartons vs Tubes: Candle Packaging Compared (2026)
Cubit Packaging Team
May 22, 2026
1 min read
Three Candle Packaging Formats, Three Price Points
Your candle packaging decision comes down to two questions: Is this a gift or a self-purchase? And what's your retail price?
Comparison Table
| Factor | Rigid Box | Folding Carton | Tube |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best candle type | Jar candles (gift) | Jar candles (retail) | Pillar/taper candles |
| Gift appeal | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Glass protection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (with insert) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (with insert) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (snug fit) |
| Cost (5K qty) | $2.80-$6.00 | $0.60-$1.80 | $0.80-$2.00 |
| Retail price sweet spot | $35+ | $12-$35 | $15-$30 |
Gift vs. Self-Purchase Strategy
35% of candle sales are gifts. Smart brands package accordingly: rigid boxes for their "gift" SKUs, folding cartons for their everyday retail line. Same candle, different packaging, different shelf placement, different margin structure.
Compare candle packaging options or browse candle packaging.
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