A FEFCO code identifies a box construction so a buyer and converter can discuss the same basic shape. It does not define the material grade, finished dimensions, tolerances, print, closure or performance requirement. Those belong in the specification alongside the code.
The reference is the FEFCO Code of Designs, 12th edition. Consult its actual drawing when selecting a style or variant; similar commercial names can describe different details.
1. How the Code Works
The familiar four-digit style number begins with a family and identifies a design within it. For example, 0201 belongs to the 02 slotted-box family. The full reference may also identify a version or combination of designs, so retain the complete designation supplied by the converter.
Use a code as a shared starting point for the drawing review. Avoid assuming that every converter interprets an informal name such as “mailer” or “auto-bottom” as the same exact construction.
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Explore supported FEFCO-style structures, then confirm the production drawing with your converter.
Open calculator2. The Major Style Families
| Family | General construction |
|---|---|
| 01 | Commercial sheets and rolls |
| 02 | Slotted boxes |
| 03 | Telescope boxes |
| 04 | Folder boxes and trays |
| 05 | Slide boxes |
| 06 | Rigid boxes |
| 07 | Ready-glued cases |
| 08 | Retail and e-commerce packaging |
| 09 | Interior fitments |
Scroll to compare all columns.
The 12th edition includes the 08 retail and e-commerce family. It should not be omitted simply because an older style summary stops at 07 and 09. A familiar mailer can still belong to the 04 family; the marketing application alone does not determine its code.
3. Common Styles and What to Check
0201: Regular Slotted Container
The regular slotted container, or RSC, has top and bottom flaps with the major flaps meeting at the center. It is a common shipping-case starting point. The Fibre Box Association’s style reference illustrates 0201.
Check the actual flap gap, joint, tape or adhesive closure, and how the case is erected and sealed. The drawing still needs inside dimensions and allowances for the selected board.
0200: Half Slotted Container
This construction has one open end and normally needs a separate cover or another closure solution where containment is required. Specify that second component and the assembled condition rather than pricing the body alone as a complete package.
0203: Full Overlap Slotted Container
Full-overlap major flaps extend across the opening. The extra flap build-up affects closure thickness, material use and dimensions. It does not automatically double the package’s compression strength. Define the assembled closure and test the intended configuration.
0427: Folder-Style Mailer
This style uses a folded construction with an attached lid and locking details. Check the actual drawing against the product fit, assembly sequence, opening experience and sealing requirements. A self-locking shape does not by itself establish tamper evidence or transit security.
For all four styles, confirm the geometry against the official FEFCO drawing. This guide describes selection considerations and does not reproduce a production-ready dieline.
4. The Code Does Not Replace a Specification
A supplier still needs:
- Inside dimensions, dimension order and tolerances.
- Board construction, finished caliper and required test properties.
- Joint type, closure method and assembled flap condition.
- Print, coating, cutouts and other features.
- Packing method and machine restrictions.
- Gross contents mass, load direction and distribution requirements.
- The approved drawing and sample revision.
Outside dimensions cannot always be calculated by adding two calipers to every inside dimension. Flap overlap, local board build-up, folding allowances and closure details vary by style. Use the actual construction for pallet and shipping calculations.
5. FEFCO and Folding Carton Codes
Do not assume every solid-paperboard folding carton is fully specified by a FEFCO corrugated style. ECMA publishes a separate Code of Folding Carton Design Styles. State the code system as well as the design when exchanging specifications.
In PackCalc, Carton Builder and Box Specs support preliminary structure and material decisions. Their output should be reviewed with the converter for production allowances, tooling and qualification. A style choice is a geometry decision, not a certification of a package’s performance.
Continue with corrugated board grades to specify the material and the connected workflow to carry the finished outside dimensions into downstream planning.