There’s a common misconception that used boxes can’t be as good as new. But that couldn’t be further from the truth… or we wouldn’t exist!

When sourced correctly, used boxes can offer the same strength, reliability, and consistency as new ones, often at a fraction of the cost and with a much smaller environmental footprint.

At Reuseabox, we’ve helped thousands of businesses make the switch to used cardboard packaging easier.

But, along the way, we’ve seen a few common pitfalls that stop businesses from getting the most out of their packaging.

Here’s how to avoid them and why choosing to reuse is one of the smartest moves your business can make.

1. Assuming ‘Used’ Means ‘Low Quality’

This is the biggest myth of all. Many businesses picture damaged, soggy boxes when they hear the word ‘used’. In reality, most used boxes are still in excellent condition, often strong, clean, and used only once.

Within our warehouse, every box goes through a quality check to make sure it meets our standards before being sent out. Many of our customers tell us they can’t tell the difference between used and new, and frankly, as long as what’s inside arrives safely, your customers won’t care what the box looks like.

2. Not Understanding What They’re Buying

It’s easy to focus on price alone but knowing the grade and type of used boxes you’re getting makes all the difference. Some businesses buy mixed batches without checking the details and end up with sizes that don’t quite work.

We make it simple to choose the right box for your needs. Whether you’re shipping small eCommerce parcels or large pallet loads, our team can help you find the best match.

3. Overcomplicating the Switch

Some businesses worry that switching to used boxes will be a hassle or take time to get right. But with the right partner, it’s easy.

We take care of everything, from sourcing to delivery, so you can start reusing boxes straight away. You’ll reduce your packaging spend, cut your carbon footprint, and help stop perfectly good boxes going to waste.

4. Ignoring the Sustainability Story

Used boxes are more than just a cost saving exercise, they tell a powerful story. Every used box reused helps keep cardboard in circulation for longer, which means fewer trees cut down, less waste, and lower emissions.

Reuseabox tracks the environmental savings from every order so you can see your positive impact in real numbers. Many of our customers use this data to boost their sustainability reporting and share it with their own customers.

5. Thinking Used Boxes Don’t Look the Part

Your packaging says a lot about your brand, so it’s understandable that businesses want it to look professional. Some assume that used boxes means compromising on appearance, but that’s not the case.

Many of our used boxes are plain and unbranded. They look great and perform the same as new. And even there is a bit of branding or labels from its previous use on our boxes, we’ve found that the recipient doesn’t really care as long as their goods are in one piece. Because the box will most likely end up in the recycling bin anyway (though we can always hope they get used again).

6. Not Building a Reliable Supply

Used boxes are in high demand, and supply can vary depending on what’s available. Businesses sometimes buy one-off batches instead of setting up a regular supply, which can make stock planning tricky.

We make consistency easy. Our stock holding option means you can reserve the stock in advance, and you can simply call off your next order of used boxes when you need them. This keeps your warehouse stocked and your operations running smoothly, all while reusing more cardboard, more often.

7. Overlooking the Bigger Picture

Buying used boxes isn’t just about saving money or ticking a sustainability box. It’s about rethinking packaging altogether. Seeing waste as a valuable resource that can (and should) be reused.

By becoming part of the Reuseabox community, you’re helping to create a more circular economy. Where materials are kept in use for longer, and businesses of all sizes can make a real difference for people and planet.

Ready to join the Reuseabox community?

Switch to used cardboard boxes today to save money and reduce your environmental impact.

Explore our latest range of used boxes online or get in touch with our team to find the perfect fit for your business. Because it really is a better way to buy cardboard boxes.