In corrugated manufacturing, “quality” is often thrown around as a blanket term. But what does it really mean? If your team can’t define, measure, or prove it, chances are your customer can’t either.
In corrugated manufacturing, “quality” is often thrown around as a blanket term.
But what does it really mean? If your team can’t define, measure, or prove it, chances are your customer can’t either.
That’s a risk you can’t afford.
To truly deliver on expectations, it’s time to stop saying “quality” and start using terms that communicate what you’re actually achieving on the plant floor.
Contents
- Why ‘Quality’ Isn’t Enough
- The Three Pillars That Should Replace ‘Quality’
- What This Means in Practice
- Final Thought
Why ‘Quality’ Isn’t Enough
Corrugated board is often treated as a commodity, which means your reputation hinges on consistency, reliability, and performance. Vague claims like “we make high-quality board” don’t stand out — and don’t build trust.
Instead, manufacturers need to:
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Define clear customer expectations
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Translate them into measurable performance targets
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Align production, quality, and sales teams around shared language
The Three Pillars That Should Replace ‘Quality’
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — just be more precise. We recommend replacing “quality” with these three measurable attributes:
1. Consistency
Can you repeat the result, run after run?
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Moisture control
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Caliper and flatness
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Warp and bond integrity
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Machine performance stability
All of these can be tracked, logged, and agreed with customers.
2. Conformance
Does the board match the required specifications?
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Correct board grade and flute profile
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Surface properties for converting or printing
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Compression strength, durability, and load performance
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Accurate stacking and fit-for-purpose packaging
Conformance prevents surprises downstream — in conversion, logistics, and end-use.
3. Accuracy
Can you prove what you delivered?
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ECT, crush, burst test results
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Glue, moisture, or temperature alignment to process settings
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Digital and lab data traceability
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Standards-based verification (e.g., FEFCO, BRCGS)
Accuracy builds credibility with traceable data and fewer disputes.
What This Means in Practice
When you move away from vague terms like “quality” and focus on consistency, conformance, and accuracy, you can:
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Reduce rework, waste, and customer complaints
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Standardise internal KPIs across teams
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Speak the same language from sales through to shipping
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Provide proof of performance backed by data
Final Thought
As Deming said:
“If you can’t describe what you’re doing as a process, you don’t know what you’re doing.”
So the next time you're tempted to say, "We make high-quality board," stop. Instead, talk about what you consistently deliver, how you conform to spec, and how accurate your process is.
That’s what your customers care about.
