Folding boxes 
Shipping boxes 
Stand-up pouch 
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Roll labels 
Paper cans 
Sample boxes The ECMA catalogue is a collection of codes for the standardisation of folding boxes and die-cut packaging. The abbreviation ECMA stands for ‘European Carton Makers Association’. This is an association of various European companies from the folding box and cardboard industry. The organisation is based in The Hague.
This ECMA catalogue offers the decisive advantage of standardising the various types of Folding boxes. This makes it possible to purchase Folding boxes throughout Europe.
Structure of ECMA code
ECMA codes generally consist of a combination of a letter and a series of numbers. The letter describes the overall design of the folding box. The subsequent number combinations also describe the different box components, such as:
- Bottom type (e.g. insert tab, plug-in bottom, automatic bottom)
- Lid type (e.g. plug-in flap, without lid, wing closure)
- Tab arrangement (e.g. opposite tabs, offset tabs)
Depending on the ECMA code, this code is supplemented by the letters A, M, M/A or M+A. M means that the folding box is assembled manually. A means that the folding box is assembled automatically (e.g. with the aid of a packing machine). M/A means that both options are possible. M+A means that both manual and automatic assembly are required to assemble the box type.
ECMA groups
The ECMA catalogue distinguishes between the following assemblies:
- Group A: Rectangular folding boxes with longitudinal seam gluing
- Group B: Rectangular folding boxes without longitudinal seam gluing, folded
- Group C: Non-rectangular folding boxes with longitudinal seam gluing
- Group D: Non-rectangular folding boxes without longitudinal seam gluing
- Group E: Folding boxes with product reference
- Group F: Other folding boxes
- Group X: Closures and auxiliary devices for all groups
Examples of ECMA codes
Source: European Carton Makers Association
