When Should I Choose Double-Wall Over Triple-Wall Corrugated Board?
Packaging and crating play a vital role in protecting valuable artworks, fragile artifacts, and high-end collectibles during transport and storage. For professionals handling irreplaceable cultural objects or high-value media, selecting the correct type of corrugated board—especially between double-wall and triple-wall options—is critical. In this in-depth guide, we explore the differences, ideal use cases, and best practices for choosing between double-wall and triple-wall corrugated board.
Union Fine Art Services (https://unionfas.com) brings decades of expertise in museum-quality crating and packaging, providing tailored solutions for art handlers, galleries, collectors, and institutions worldwide.
Understanding Corrugated Board Structure
Corrugated fiberboard consists of one or more layers of fluted (wavy) paper sandwiched between flat linerboards. The configuration of these layers determines the board’s strength, rigidity, and protective capabilities.
- Single-Wall: One fluted layer between two liners.
- Double-Wall: Two fluted layers with three liners.
- Triple-Wall: Three fluted layers with four liners.
The additional layers in double- and triple-wall boards significantly increase compression strength and puncture resistance, making them suitable for heavy, delicate, or high-value contents.
Key Differences Between Double-Wall and Triple-Wall Corrugated Board
| Feature | Double-Wall | Triple-Wall |
| Flute Layers | 2 | 3 |
| Total Layers | 5 (2 flutes + 3 liners) | 7 (3 flutes + 4 liners) |
| Weight Capacity | ~60-100 lbs | ~300-500+ lbs |
| Burst Strength | Moderate | High |
| Stack Strength | Moderate-High | Very High |
| Thickness | ~1/4 inch | ~1/2 inch or more |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
When to Choose Double-Wall Corrugated Board
Double-wall corrugated board is ideal when:
1. The Shipment is Medium-Weight (Up to 100 lbs)
For creating framed artworks, sculptures, or archival items that are moderately heavy, double-wall corrugated provides a balance of durability and cost-effectiveness.
2. Shorter or Controlled Transportation Routes
Double-wall is sufficient for shipments transported via air or local couriers with minimal handling. If artworks are packed and unpacked only a few times, double-wall packaging often provides enough protection.
3. Storage in Climate-Controlled Environments
When materials are stored indoors under controlled temperature and humidity, a double-wall storage system is appropriate due to reduced exposure to environmental stressors.
4. Cost Constraints Are Present
Budget-conscious institutions or artists may benefit from the strength-to-cost ratio of double-wall boards, especially when crating smaller or less fragile items.
5. Custom Inserts Provide Additional Protection
If the crate includes interior foam, corner blocks, or bracing, the need for an ultra-rigid external wall is reduced. Double-wall may suffice as the outer structure.
Union Fine Art Services often recommends double-wall for economy crates and traveling exhibitions where budget and portability matter.
When to Choose Triple-Wall Corrugated Board
Triple-wall corrugated board is the right choice when:
1. Transporting Heavy, Large, or Multi-Component Pieces
Triple-wall boards are engineered to support extreme weights and resist crushing forces, making them ideal for heavy statues, installations, or crates with multiple large items.
2. International or Multi-Modal Transit
For international shipping that involves trucks, aircraft, ships, or warehousing, triple-wall provides greater resilience to stacking, vibration, and environmental impact.
3. Extended Storage or Repeated Handling
Crates that need to be opened, repacked, or moved multiple times during an exhibition tour benefit from the structural integrity of triple-wall board.
4. Increased Risk of Compression or Impact
Triple-wall is ideal for crates placed under other cargo or when rough handling is likely. It withstands edge crush and puncture forces better than a double-wall.
5. Shipping High-Value or Fragile Media
When you’re dealing with museum-grade artwork, antique furniture, or delicate installations, it’s essential to invest in the most robust barrier available.
At Union Fine Art Services, triple-wall is often the go-to for international exhibitions, long-term storage, or artworks of exceptional value.
Practical Considerations for Crating Materials
Choosing between double-wall and triple-wall isn’t just about weight. Consider the following variables:
1. Material of the Artwork
- Mixed media and sculptures may have protruding or fragile sections.
- Paintings on canvas may sag or crack under pressure.
In these cases, stronger boards or internal bracing become necessary.
2. Environmental Exposure
Even corrugated board with multiple walls is susceptible to moisture. A crate exposed to rain, humidity, or marine environments should include vapor barriers, desiccants, or waterproof linings.
3. Longevity of Use
A single-use crate might get by with double-wall, but if you intend to reuse the crate for multiple shows, triple-wall or even hybrid wood-corrugated designs are more economical long-term.
4. Handling and Access
If customs inspections are expected or if you anticipate multiple unpacking cycles, a robust material that withstands wear and tear is preferred.
Union Fine Art Services offers expert consultation on these aspects, tailoring crating materials to the specific needs of the object and transportation route.
Supplementary Materials for Protection
In addition to double-wall or triple-wall corrugated board, crates should integrate:
- Polyethylene or polyurethane foam inserts for shock absorption.
- Barrier films like Tyvek or Marvelseal for humidity protection.
- Shock and tilt indicators to monitor handling.
- ISPM-15 certified wood if pallets or framing are needed.
Union Fine Art Services utilizes a multi-material approach, combining high-performance foam, honeycomb panels, and moisture barriers to create custom solutions.
Real-World Example: Artwork Shipping Case Study
A traveling exhibit of contemporary mixed-media sculpture required shipping across three continents. Union Fine Art Services engineered a crate with triple-wall corrugated sides, laminated wood bases, and customized foam interiors. The crate endured:
- 9 loading/unloading cycles
- Storage in 3 climates
- Vertical compression from stacked cargo
The artworks arrived intact at each location. Despite higher upfront costs, the triple-wall crate saved the institution over $5,000 in prevented damage and repacking.
Summary: Double-Wall vs. Triple-Wall Decision Matrix
| Situation | Recommended Material |
| Lightweight framed art | Double-wall |
| Local, short-term shipping | Double-wall |
| High-value fine art | Triple-wall |
| International freight | Triple-wall |
| Long-term storage | Triple-wall |
| Budget-sensitive project | Double-wall (with foam support) |
| Frequent handling/unpacking | Triple-wall |
Why Partner with Union Fine Art Services?
Union Fine Art Services (https://unionfas.com) brings industry-leading expertise in protective packaging for high-value art and cultural objects. We offer:
- Custom double- and triple-wall crate fabrication
- ISPM-15 compliant crates for global shipping
- On-site condition reporting and packing
- Expert coordination for museum exhibitions and private collectors
Whether you’re shipping a single artwork or an entire collection, UnionFAS engineers the perfect balance of protection, weight, and cost.
Contact us today to speak with our crating specialists and safeguard your next shipment with confidence.