Corrugated Box Compression Calculator

Corrugated box compression (McKee estimate)

Board ECT (kN/m) edge crush test, from your board supplier. Typical 3 to 12.

Board caliper (mm) typical 3 to 8

Box length (mm)

Box width (mm)

Box height (mm)

Filled box weight (kg)

Safety factor 3 short, 4 normal, 5 long humid storage

Boxes per pallet layer, pallet layers

Uses the McKee formula: BCT = 5.87 x ECT x square root of (caliper x perimeter), converted to SI. It is an estimate for a regular slotted box (RSC) in standard conditions. It ignores humidity, long storage, openings, print and handling damage, which is why safety factors of 3 to 6 are used. Always confirm with a lab compression test.