Explore which lunch box forming machines are best for burger boxes, bento trays, food pail containers, and more — with insights from VIE Machinery.
offers advanced paper lunch box machines designed to produce a wide range of food packaging solutions. These include burger boxes, hot-dog trays, one-block boxes, Chinese take-away boxes, fries trays, compartment lunch boxes, and more. Our machines are engineered for versatility, high automation, and reliable output to meet various food service industry needs.
Typical Applications
Burger Boxes & Hot-Dog Boxes
Formed using thermoforming or glue-folding machines, ideal for clamshell and tray shapes.
One-Block Boxes & Chinese Take-Away Boxes
Formed by machines that can shape square or rectangular containers, either compartmented or single block, with heat or glue sealing.
Fries Boxes (Chips Trays)
Compact open-top boxes made by folding and gluing, designed for easy grip and service.
Lunch Boxes & Meal Boxes
Multi-compartment containers suitable for complete meals, made using high-speed compartment forming machines with sealing technology.
Summary Table: Machine Types & Applications
| Box Type | Machine Type | Speed | Material | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burger Box | Thermoforming or Glue Folding | 20–300 pcs/min | PE/PLA-coated Kraft | Clamshell design, sealed edges |
| Hot-Dog Tray | Thermoforming or Folding | Up to 400 pcs/min | PE-coated Paper | Tray shape, open design |
| One-Block Box | Glue Folding | 150–250 pcs/min | Kraft/Coated Paper | Simple structure, sealed folds |
| Food Pail Box | Compartment Forming | Up to 400 pcs/min | Double PE-coated | Folded sides, with/without lid |
| Fries Box | Glue Folding | 100–200 pcs/min | Kraft/Coated Paper | Open-top, easy handling |
| Lunch / Meal Box | Compartment Forming | 300–350 pcs/min | Biodegradable Paper | Multi-sectioned, sealed cover |
Main Types and Features of VIE Machinery Paper Lunch Box Machines
1. Automatic Thermoforming Paper Lunch Box Machines (e.g., VLB Model)
These machines utilize automatic paper feeding, hot air heating, and hot press forming to shape disposable PE-coated paper lunch boxes. Common applications include cake trays, lunch boxes, and food packaging boxes.
- Production Speed: 30–400 pieces/minute
- Max Box Size: Up to 450×450mm
- Output: Single-color, heat-formed containers
2. Multi-Shape Lunch Box Forming Machines (VLB-800 / VLB-1400)
Designed for different shape box, these machine is available to make different shape/size box by change the mold. They feature high-frequency sealing for secure cover application and can also form paper pails and hamburger boxes.
- Production Speed: Up to 400 pcs/min
- Box Types: Compartment trays, pail boxes, hamburger containers
3. Glue-Based Paper Box Making Machines
These machines integrate blank feeding, hot or cold glue application, paper shaping, and folding/sealing into a single streamlined process. Suitable for making various box types including:
- Burger boxes
- Clamshell boxes
- Food containers
- Fries trays
- Production Speed: 60–400 pcs/min depending on box complexity
Material Compatibility
VIE Machinery’s paper lunch box machines are compatible with a wide range of materials, including:
- Coated Kraft paper
- PE-coated and PLA-coated biodegradable paper
- Bagasse (sugarcane pulp paper)
- Recycled cardboard
These materials ensure durable, leak-resistant, and eco-friendly packaging options, in line with growing sustainability demands.
Customization and Flexibilit
Our machines are built for high flexibility and adaptability:
- Mold/Dies Swapping: Customize box shapes/sizes (clamshells, compartments, pails)
- Adjustable Controls: Modify heating, glue application, folding, and production speed
- Printing Options: Add branding, logos, or graphics via integrated or offline printers
- Supports Embossing/Debossing: Add tactile branding elements
Benefits of Using VIE Machinery’s Paper Lunch Box Machines
- ✅ High automation reduces labor costs
- ✅ Fast mold change supports diverse production
- ✅ Compatible with eco-friendly materials
- ✅ Ideal for fast food, catering, takeout, and delivery packaging
- ✅ Fully customizable box designs with consistent quality
Q&A Section
What materials are best for making durable takeaway food boxes?
The most effective materials for strong, eco-conscious food boxes include:
The best materials for making durable takeaway food boxes with a paper lunch box machine are those that combine strength, food safety, leak resistance, and eco-friendliness. Based on current industry standards and material properties, the following are highly recommended:
1. Kraft Paperboard (Strong Cardboard)
Made from strong Kraft paperboard, these boxes are durable, greaseproof, and leak-resistant when combined with a water-based or PE/PLA lining.
Suitable for hot and cold meals including burgers, salads, rice dishes, and desserts.
Often FSC-certified for sustainability and fully compostable or recyclable.
Maintains structural integrity during transport and use, making it ideal for busy food businesses.
Commonly used in eco-friendly takeaway boxes that are biodegradable and compostable.
Example: Kraft paperboard boxes with water-resistant, food-safe linings provide leakproof performance without plastic contamination.
2. PE or PLA Coated Paper
Paper coated with PE (polyethylene) or PLA (biodegradable polylactic acid) provides a moisture and grease barrier essential for containing oily or saucy foods.
PLA coatings are compostable and more environmentally friendly than PE.
These coatings ensure the box remains sturdy and leakproof for hot, cold, or mixed-temperature foods.
Widely used in paper lunch box machines to produce disposable food containers that are both durable and eco-conscious.
3. Bagasse (Sugarcane Pulp)
A natural by-product of sugarcane processing, bagasse is sturdy, biodegradable, and compostable.
It offers excellent durability and heat resistance, making it ideal for hot and cold foods alike.
Used for clamshell meal boxes, leak-proof bowls, and trays.
An innovative, sustainable alternative to traditional paper or plastic packaging.
4. Recycled Cardboard
Contains a high percentage of recycled content, offering a sustainable choice without compromising strength.
Often combined with coatings or linings to improve grease and moisture resistance.
Provides a premium finish and is widely accepted in recycling programs.
Summary Table of Recommended Materials
| Material | Durability | Leak Resistance | Eco-Friendliness | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft Paperboard | High | High (w/ lining) | Compostable/Recyclable | Hot/cold meals |
| PE/PLA Coated Paper | High | Excellent | PLA = Compostable, PE = Recyclable | Saucy foods |
| Bagasse (Sugarcane Pulp) | Very High | Good | 100% Compostable | Clamshells, heat-resistant boxes |
| Recycled Cardboard | Moderate–High | Moderate (w/ coating) | Recyclable | Dry or moderate-moisture foods |
These materials support various processes like thermoforming, folding, and gluing, and maintain integrity during delivery.
Why These Materials Work Best with Paper Lunch Box Machines
They are compatible with thermoforming, folding, and gluing processes used in these machines.
Their coatings and fiber strength allow for precise die-cutting and forming without tearing or deformation.
They meet food safety standards and regulatory requirements for takeaway packaging.
They align with growing consumer demand for sustainable and compostable packaging.
In conclusion, to produce durable, leakproof, and eco-friendly takeaway food boxes using your paper lunch box machine, strong Kraft paperboard with water-based or PE/PLA linings, bagasse pulp, and recycled cardboard with appropriate coatings are the best material choices. These materials ensure product quality, customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility.
How can I customize box sizes and designs using this paper lunch box machine？
Customizing is simple with VIE Machinery Lunch box making machine:
- Change Molds/Dies: Switch easily between box types (e.g., burger, tray, pail)
- Adjust Machine Settings: Fine-tune speed, heating, glue application, folding angles
- Custom Die-Cutting: Create unique shapes with precision
- Integrated Printing: Add full-color branding, logos, and product info
- Embossing Options: Add tactile logos or patterns
- Material Choice: Use Kraft, PE-coated, PLA-coated, or bagasse paper
- Flexible Design: Create compartments, lids, special folds
1.Changing Molds or Dies
Custom Molds: The primary method for customizing box size and shape is by using interchangeable molds or dies. Each mold determines the final dimensions and structure of the box. By commissioning or installing a new mold, you can switch between different box types—such as burger boxes, hot-dog trays, food pail boxes, or compartment meal boxes.
Quick Mold Exchange: Many modern machines are equipped with fast-exchange systems, minimizing downtime when switching between molds for different box designs.
2. Adjusting Machine Settings
Paper Size and Weight: Machines often allow adjustments for paper size (for example, up to 450x450mm) and paper weight (typically 200-400g/m²), letting you select the right material for your custom box.
Control System: Advanced control panels let operators fine-tune parameters such as folding patterns, glue application, heating temperature, and production speed to match the requirements of each design.
3. Custom Die-Cutting
Die-Cutting System: The machine uses a custom-made die to cut the paper into the desired box shape and size. This process ensures precise, uniform results for each box, and the die can be tailored to even complex or unique box structures.
4. Printing and Branding
Integrated Printing: If you need custom graphics, logos, or branding, many machines can be equipped with a printing unit. This allows for direct printing on the box surface before it is formed, supporting full customization of visual design.
Surface Finishes: You can also request embossing or debossing on the box surface by incorporating these features into the mold design, adding tactile branding elements.
5. Material Compatibility
Material Options: Machines are compatible with various materials, including PE-coated kraft paper, biodegradable PLA-coated paper, and sugarcane pulp paper, enabling custom choices for sustainability or food safety.
6. Production Flexibility
Compartment and Structure Customization: For boxes with multiple sections or special features (like partitions for bento boxes), molds can be designed to include these elements, ensuring the finished box meets your specific requirements.
Summary Table: Customization Options
| Customization Aspect | How It’s Achieved | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Box Size & Shape | Change molds/dies | Fast-exchange systems available |
| Box Structure | Custom die-cutting, folding patterns | Supports complex designs |
| Branding/Design | Integrated printing, embossing/debossing | Logos, colors, textures |
| Material Type | Adjustable material feed | Kraft, PE/PLA-coated, pulp |
| Compartments/Features | Mold design with partitions | Multi-section boxes |
| Production Speed | Adjustable via control system | Depends on design complexity |
Quick Setup Process:
- ✅ Share your box specs
- ✅ Receive custom molds from VIE Machinery
- ✅ Install and run test batches
- ✅ Fine-tune for optimal performance
Partner with VIE Machinery Today
Whether you’re scaling your packaging line or developing custom eco-friendly boxes, VIE Machinery delivers efficient, sustainable, and high-speed paper lunch box machine solutions.
📩 Contact us today to request a quote or discuss your packaging goals.
