Custom Gable Boxes: The Complete Guide to Food-Grade, Gift & Party Packaging (2026)

Key Takeaways

• Gable boxes start at $0.40 per unit for standard kraft, with full-color printed options from $0.65/unit
• The built-in carry handle is the defining feature — it eliminates the need for separate bags, reducing packaging costs by 15–20%
• Food-grade gable boxes require FDA-compliant coatings (PE or water-based) to prevent grease and moisture bleed-through
• MOQ is 500 units with full-color digital printing; offset starts at 2,000 units
• Cubit gable boxes are available in kraft, white SBS, and colored board with window die-cut options

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What Are Gable Boxes?

Gable boxes — also called gable-top boxes or carry-out boxes — are single-piece packaging containers with a distinctive peaked handle on top. The self-locking handle folds flat for shipping and pops up when assembled, creating a convenient carry container without tape, glue, or separate bags.

Originally popularized by the Chinese takeout industry in the 1970s, gable boxes have evolved into one of the most versatile packaging formats in the market. Today, they are used by bakeries, restaurants, gift shops, party planners, and retail brands worldwide.

The global food service packaging market, where gable boxes hold significant share, reached $82.3 billion in 2025 (Markets and Markets), with carry-out and delivery containers growing at 6.8% CAGR driven by the restaurant delivery economy.

Types of Gable Boxes

Kraft Gable Boxes

Natural brown kraft gable boxes deliver a rustic, eco-friendly aesthetic. Made from 300–350gsm kraft board, they are fully recyclable and compostable.

Material: 300–350gsm natural kraft board Look: Natural brown, uncoated Best for: Bakeries, farmers markets, artisan food, eco-conscious brands Price: $0.40–$0.85 per box

White SBS Gable Boxes

White SBS (Solid Bleached Sulfate) gable boxes provide a clean, premium canvas for full-color printing. The bright white surface delivers maximum color vibrancy and contrast.

Material: 300–350gsm C1S white board Look: Bright white, smooth finish Best for: Gift packaging, retail, cosmetics, premium food Price: $0.50–$1.00 per box

Window Gable Boxes

Window gable boxes feature a die-cut opening with food-safe clear PET film, allowing customers to see the product inside. Window placement can be on the front face, side panels, or the gable itself.

Window material: PET clear film (food-safe) Window shapes: Rectangle, oval, circle, custom die-cut Best for: Bakeries (cupcakes, cookies), confectionery, gift items Price: +$0.10–$0.15 per box (window addition)

Grease-Resistant Gable Boxes

For fried food, pizza, and oily baked goods, grease-resistant gable boxes include an interior PE coating or water-based grease barrier that prevents oil staining and structural weakening.

Coating: PE lamination or water-based grease barrier Grease resistance: Passes Kit Test rating of 8+ (TAPPI T559) Best for: Fried chicken, pizza slices, donuts, greasy baked goods Price: +$0.08–$0.12 per box (coating addition)

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Gable Box Sizes & Applications

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Printing & Finishing Options

Full-Color Digital Printing

Up to 6 colors on all exterior surfaces. No plate costs, ideal for runs under 2,000 units. Supports variable data (custom names, event dates).

Offset Lithography

Premium print quality with Pantone spot color matching. Requires plates ($150–$250 each). Economical at 2,000+ units.

Available Finishes

• Matte lamination — Soft-touch premium feel
• Gloss lamination — High-shine, vibrant colors
• Spot UV — Selective glossy highlights on matte base
• Foil stamping — Metallic gold or silver accents
• Embossing — Raised texture for logos and text

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Industry Applications

Bakeries & Confectioneries

Gable boxes are the bakery standard for cupcakes, cookies, cake slices, and pastries. The handle eliminates the need for bags, and window options let customers preview their treats.

Restaurant Takeout

The original gable box use case. Perfect for single-portion meals, appetizer samplers, and dessert take-home boxes. Grease-resistant coating available.

Weddings & Events

Custom printed gable boxes serve as favor boxes, welcome gifts, and bridesmaid/groomsmen boxes. Variable data printing allows personalization with guest names.

Retail & Gift

Boutique retailers use gable boxes as premium shopping containers that double as gift packaging. The handle eliminates the need for gift bags.

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How to Order Custom Gable Boxes

Step 1: Choose Size & Material

Select from standard sizes or specify custom dimensions. Choose kraft, white SBS, or colored board.

Step 2: Add Features

Select window die-cuts, grease-resistant coating, and handle reinforcement as needed.

Step 3: Upload Artwork

Submit print-ready files (PDF, AI at 300 DPI with 1/8" bleed). Free design service available.

Step 4: Production

7–10 day standard production. Free shipping on all orders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are gable boxes food safe?

Yes. All Cubit gable boxes use FDA-compliant materials. For direct food contact (without separate liners), we offer PE-coated and water-based grease-resistant interiors that meet FDA 21 CFR 176.170 requirements for food contact surfaces.

What is the minimum order for custom gable boxes?

Our minimum order is 500 units for digitally printed custom gable boxes. This includes full-color printing on all exterior surfaces with no plate fees. Offset printing starts at 2,000 units.

Can gable boxes be used for hot food?

Standard gable boxes can handle warm food (up to 60°C/140°F). For hot food above 60°C, we recommend PE-coated interiors which resist heat up to 100°C. Gable boxes are not oven-safe or microwave-safe.

Do you offer eco-friendly gable boxes?

Yes. Our kraft gable boxes are made from FSC-certified, 100% recyclable, and compostable materials. We also offer boxes made from 100% recycled paperboard and print with soy-based inks that meet EPA standards for low VOC emissions.

How do gable boxes ship flat?

Gable boxes arrive flat-packed and pop up into shape in seconds — no tape or glue required. The self-locking handle mechanism ensures the box holds its form securely. Flat shipping reduces storage space by 85% compared to pre-assembled containers.

Can I get custom shapes or sizes?

Yes. While we offer 5 standard sizes, we can produce any custom dimension. Custom sizes require a die ($75–$150 one-time cost) and minimum 500 units. Our structural designers will optimize your custom size for maximum material efficiency.