Knives to Open Taped Cardboard Boxes [Video]
This guide will show you how to use a safety knife to protect both the package contents and yourself
Opening taped cardboard boxes efficiently and safely requires the right tool, a specialized cardboard knife. Whether you're unpacking a single parcel or managing goods in a warehouse, the type of knife you use can make a significant difference. Here are expert tips for using a cardboard cutting knife to ensure safety for both the user and the contents of the box.
Select the Right Knife
Not all knives are suitable for cutting through cardboard. The best knife for cutting cardboard is specifically designed to handle the durable and often sticky nature of taped boxes without causing damage to the contents inside. A cardboard cutter knife typically features a retractable and/or shielded blade to minimize the risk of accidents.
Choosing the best knife for cutting cardboard is crucial. Opt for a safety knife, like a foil or pelican knife, which is designed to cut through tape without damaging the contents inside due to its hidden blade. These knives ensure that the blade does not come into contact with the contents of the box.
Use the knife blade to cut the tape on the side of the box and then you can press the tape over the opening. It’s much more efficient and safer to open taped cardboard compared to other knives. Always cut only the tape to avoid damaging the box’s contents.
The advantage of using a safety knife, foil knife, or pelican knife to open taped cardboard is that you protect the contents when you cut because the knife blade is angled upwards instead of inwards towards the contents of the cardboard. The knife blade thus does not access the contents of the carton.
Another advantage of using a safety knife, foil knife, or pelican knife when opening taped cardboard is that it is safer for the user because you can practically not cut yourself by the safety knife.
When you have removed the contents of the opened box, flip over the box and remove the tape on the underside. Then just fold the cardboard so it takes up minimal space in the recycling bin.
Safe and Efficient Opening Techniques
- Proper Blade Use: Only cut the tape to avoid damaging the box's contents. Position the blade at the side of the box and gently press through the tape.
- User Safety: The design of the cardboard box cutter knife minimizes the risk of injury. Its safety features prevent the blade from accidental exposure.
- Post-Opening: Once the contents are removed, fold the box down to minimize space in the recycling bin by removing the tape on the underside.
To safely open a box:
- Position the box: Ensure the box is stable on a flat surface.
- Correct blade depth: Adjust the blade depth of your best knife to cut cardboard so that it just pierces through the thickness of the cardboard, not any deeper.
- Cut away from your body: Always push the knife away from your body and keep your other hand at a safe distance from the cutting line.
- Follow seams and edges: Start your cut at the seams or where the tape is evident, following along the edges for a clean cut.
How to Open Taped Cardboard in the Best Way
- Use a safety knife, pelican knife or foil knife
- It's faster and more secure, protects the content besides
- Cut and press only the tape
- Cut and press the tape on the underside
- Fold the box and put it in the recycling bin
Recommended Products
For those frequently dealing with taped boxes, here are some highly recommended products:
- Martor SECUMAX 150
- Martor SECUMAX 350
- Klever Kutter
- Klever Exchange
These knives are specifically designed for box opening, offering maximum safety and efficiency.
Opening cardboard boxes doesn't have to be a risky task. By selecting the best knife for cutting cardboard and following these safety tips, you can efficiently and safely unbox any item. Remember, investing in a quality cardboard cutter knife not only enhances safety but also improves your unpacking efficiency.
Sollex is a Swedish supplier of industrial knives and machine blades! We have cutting products with cutting-edge technology and performance that improve manufacturing and converting processes and solve problems. With the right knives and blades, you can get simplified maintenance, time savings, and an improved end product.
You are welcome to contact us with your questions:
Company name: Sollex AB
Customer service and orders: order@sollex.se
Telephone: +4635–15 75 00
Address: Box 5161, 200 71, Malmö, Sweden
FAQ
Q: What type of knife is recommended for safely opening taped cardboard boxes?
A: A specialized safety knife, such as a foil knife or pelican knife (concealed blade cutters), is highly recommended. Their design features a retractable and/or shielded blade to protect both the user and the contents inside the box.
Q: How does a safety knife protect the contents of the cardboard box?
A: The key feature is the concealed blade and hooked knife head. This design ensures the blade only cuts the tape on the surface and does not penetrate deep enough to come into contact with or damage the contents inside the carton.
Q: What are the two primary safety advantages of using a pelican or foil knife?
A: The two advantages are: 1) User safety, as the shielded design makes it practically impossible to accidentally cut oneself, and 2) Content safety, because the concealed blade prevents contact with the product inside the box.
Q: What is the proper technique for minimizing damage when cutting tape on a box?
A: Always position the box on a flat, stable surface, and adjust the blade depth so it just pierces the tape, not the cardboard. Always cut only the tape along the seams or edges, pushing the knife away from your body.
Q: What should be done with the cardboard box after the contents have been removed?
A: To prepare the box for recycling and minimize space, flip the box over and remove the tape on the underside. Then, fold the box flat so it takes up minimal space in the recycling bin.
Q: What specific safety knife models are recommended for frequent box opening?
A: Recommended models include the Martor SECUMAX 150, Martor SECUMAX 350, Klever Kutter, and Klever Exchange, all of which are designed for maximum efficiency and safety when cutting cardboard and tape.
