HSC (Half Slotted Container): Open-Top Corrugated Box Style

What Is an HSC (Half Slotted Container)?

A Half Slotted Container (HSC) is a corrugated box style that features flaps on only one end — typically the bottom — while the opposite end remains open. This design makes the HSC ideal for use as a tray, a base in a lid-and-base packaging system, or a reusable bin in warehouse and assembly environments. The HSC is essentially an RSC with one set of flaps removed.

Like all corrugated box styles, HSCs are specified by their inside dimensions. They are manufactured from a single corrugated blank with scored lines and slots, then joined with a manufacturer’s joint at one seam.

Common Applications for HSC Boxes

HSCs are frequently used in situations where products are loaded from the top and either sealed with a separate lid or left open for easy access. In retail environments, HSCs serve as display trays that can be placed directly on shelves or pallets. In industrial settings, they function as reusable bins for parts storage and order picking along assembly lines.

When paired with a matching HSC lid, the combination creates a telescope-style package that provides excellent stacking strength and product protection. This approach is common for heavier items like appliances, automotive parts, and bulk food products.

HSC vs. RSC: Understanding the Difference

The primary structural difference is simple: an RSC has flaps on top and bottom, while an HSC has flaps on only one end. This makes the HSC less suitable as a standalone shipping container but far more versatile as a tray or open bin. If your application requires a fully enclosed single-piece box, the RSC is typically the better choice. If you need an open container or plan to use a separate lid, the HSC offers a cleaner, more functional solution.

Custom HSC Options from President Container

President Container produces custom HSC boxes in any size and board grade. We can add flexographic printing for branding, or produce unprinted kraft HSCs for industrial use. For retail tray applications, our Artisan Display division can design HSC-based point-of-purchase displays with litho-laminated graphics for maximum shelf impact.