Corrugated Box Export From India: HS Code, Export Process, Market & Industry Guide
The corrugated box export from India has grown significantly as global demand for eco-friendly, durable, and cost-efficient packaging continues to rise. From food products to electronics, garments to industrial machinery, corrugated packaging plays a vital role in global trade. With India’s strong manufacturing base and rising production capacity, the country has emerged as a leading exporter catering to markets such as the USA, Germany, UK, UAE, and Southeast Asia.
This article provides a complete overview of the export of corrugated boxes from India, the industry structure, HS code, export processes, and market opportunities worldwide.
Overview of the Corrugated Box Industry in India
The corrugated box industry in India is one of the fastest-growing segments in the Indian packaging sector. Growth is driven by:
Rapid expansion of e-commerce
Increasing exports of consumer and industrial goods
Higher adoption of sustainable packaging
Entry of advanced packaging technologies
India has thousands of small, medium, and large corrugated box manufacturing companies spread across states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Many exporters supply a wide range of cartons, kraft paper boxes, die-cut boxes, heavy-duty boxes, and custom-printed packaging grades.
India Corrugated Boxes Market and Global Demand
The demand for corrugated packaging has increased across various industries such as FMCG, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and automotive. According to industry research, the India corrugated paperboard boxes market is expanding rapidly as more companies shift towards recyclable packaging.
Along with domestic consumption, the country is witnessing high demand from international markets. The India corrugated packaging market is supported by:
Growth of global e-commerce
Ban on plastic packaging in many countries
Higher preference for kraft and corrugated fiber packaging
Cost-efficient production capacity in India
On the global side, the Germany corrugated boxes market is one of the biggest importers due to strong demand from retail, machinery, and logistics industries. Indian exporters are increasingly targeting European buyers because of their sustainability goals and growing need for durable corrugated materials.
Why Corrugated Box Export Is Growing From India
The corrugated box export sector is expanding because of several advantages India offers:
1. Cost-Effective Manufacturing
India’s kraft paper production and labour advantages help keep manufacturing costs competitive.
2. High Production Capacity
Advanced Indian factories produce millions of corrugated boxes every month, enabling bulk exports.
3. Skilled Packaging Workforce
Strong design and engineering capabilities support better customization, printing, and structural design.
4. Eco-Friendly Global Demand
Corrugated packaging fits perfectly into global sustainability and recycling standards.
This makes India a preferred global supplier for businesses looking to export corrugated boxes from reliable sources.
HS Code for Corrugated Box Export
Every exporter must classify products correctly. The corrugated box HS code is:
HS Code: 4819 – Cartons, Boxes, Cases, Bags, and Other Packing Containers of Paper, Paperboard, Cellulose
This code is used for all types of corrugated and paperboard packaging items exported from India.
Corrugated Box Export Process From India (Including Tamil Nadu)
Many exporters, especially from South India, want to understand the corrugated box export process from Tamil Nadu. The process is similar across all states. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
Ensure that corrugated boxes meet buyer specifications—dimensions, strength (GSM & BF), printing quality, and moisture resistance.
IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
Certificate of origin (if required)
3. Packaging and Labeling
Boxes must be properly strapped, shrink-wrapped, and palletized to meet buyer standards.
Exporters can ship through major ports such as Chennai, Tuticorin, Mundra, Nhava Sheva, Visakhapatnam, and Kolkata.
Customs verifies the HS code, product description, and export declaration.
Export is typically done through sea freight in 20- or 40-ft containers to global destinations.
Tamil Nadu, being a major kraft paper and packaging hub, is one of the biggest contributors to export corrugated boxes internationally.
Corrugated Box Business in India: Opportunities for New Exporters
The corrugated box business in India is ideal for both new entrepreneurs and established manufacturers due to:
1. Rising Demand From E-Commerce and FMCG
Brands require strong, lightweight packaging for shipping.
2. Rapid Growth in Agricultural Packaging
Vegetables, fruits, and farm products increasingly use corrugated cartons for export.
3. High Global Demand for Eco-Friendly Packaging
Countries like Germany, UAE, USA, UK, and Australia look for sustainable packaging solutions.
4. Government Support for Exporters
Incentives, subsidies, and simplified export processes support industry growth.
India’s domestic packaging demand ensures stable business even for those starting small.
Exporters can increase their presence globally by analyzing trade patterns using reliable export data and market insights.
India Corrugated Packaging Market: Key Growth Drivers
Increased adoption of kraft paper packaging
Shift from plastic to corrugated materials
Growing exports of industrial machinery
Demand from e-commerce giants
Rapid logistics and warehousing expansion
The country’s production capacity ensures that the India corrugated boxes market can serve both domestic and global buyers consistently.
Role of Export Data in Corrugated Box Business
Businesses involved in corrugated box export can benefit greatly from analyzing verified trade data. With the help of a trusted import data provider, companies can:
Identify active global buyers
Understand country-wise demand
Explore new international markets
Get HS code-wise shipment details
Using accurate data helps exporters expand faster and negotiate better deals.
Global Corrugated Box Market Trends
1. Germany Corrugated Boxes Market
Germany’s preference for renewable packaging, high industrial exports, and strict recycling rules drive continuous demand for corrugated cartons. Indian exporters supply significant volumes to Europe, meeting strict compliance norms.
2. Asia-Pacific Corrugated Packaging Surge
Countries such as Japan, China, South Korea, and Malaysia demand high-quality corrugated packaging for consumer goods.
3. Middle East & Africa Growth
Strong retail expansion and economic diversification create large opportunities for Indian suppliers.
The export of corrugated boxes from India continues to grow as global markets shift toward sustainable, cost-efficient packaging. With strong domestic production, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and increasing global demand, India remains one of the top suppliers of corrugated packaging to the world.
Whether you are a manufacturer, exporter, or new entrepreneur entering the corrugated box business in India, understanding HS codes, export procedures, and market trends is essential for scaling your business. Using accurate trade insights from a reliable import data provider can further enhance market opportunities and help exporters find genuine overseas buyers.
