Quick Overview
- 1#1: ArtiosCAD - Industry-leading 2D/3D CAD software for structural packaging design, optimization, and production including corrugated boxes.
- 2#2: Impact - Comprehensive CAD/CAM system for rapid design, engineering, and manufacturing of corrugated and folding carton packaging.
- 3#3: Kiwiplan - Advanced production planning, scheduling, and optimization software tailored for corrugated box manufacturing operations.
- 4#4: PolyPM - Integrated ERP and business management suite designed specifically for the flexible packaging and corrugated industry.
- 5#5: Erpack - Complete ERP solution for corrugated packaging manufacturers handling estimating, production, inventory, and customer management.
- 6#6: MDS One - Corrugator-focused production management and control software for real-time monitoring and optimization of corrugated board production.
- 7#7: Axis - Modular ERP software for corrugated sheet plants and integrated operations, covering sales, production, and logistics.
- 8#8: Packsize Design Suite - Cloud-based right-sizing and design software for on-demand custom corrugated box manufacturing and supply chain optimization.
- 9#9: Packly - Online platform for designing, prototyping, and ordering custom corrugated packaging with instant quotes and 3D previews.
- 10#10: PackDesign - CAD software for parametric design and production of folding cartons and corrugated packaging structures.
We ranked these tools based on robust feature sets, consistent performance, user-friendly interfaces, and measurable value, ensuring each entry meets the highest standards of functionality for corrugated packaging workflows.
Comparison Table
Explore a detailed comparison of leading corrugated software tools, featuring ArtiosCAD, Impact, Kiwiplan, PolyPM, Erpack and more. This table outlines key features, workflow strengths, and practical applications to help identify the ideal solution for your specific needs. From design capabilities to production integration, gain insights to streamline operations effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ArtiosCAD Industry-leading 2D/3D CAD software for structural packaging design, optimization, and production including corrugated boxes. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Impact Comprehensive CAD/CAM system for rapid design, engineering, and manufacturing of corrugated and folding carton packaging. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Kiwiplan Advanced production planning, scheduling, and optimization software tailored for corrugated box manufacturing operations. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | PolyPM Integrated ERP and business management suite designed specifically for the flexible packaging and corrugated industry. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Erpack Complete ERP solution for corrugated packaging manufacturers handling estimating, production, inventory, and customer management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | MDS One Corrugator-focused production management and control software for real-time monitoring and optimization of corrugated board production. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Axis Modular ERP software for corrugated sheet plants and integrated operations, covering sales, production, and logistics. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Packsize Design Suite Cloud-based right-sizing and design software for on-demand custom corrugated box manufacturing and supply chain optimization. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Packly Online platform for designing, prototyping, and ordering custom corrugated packaging with instant quotes and 3D previews. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | PackDesign CAD software for parametric design and production of folding cartons and corrugated packaging structures. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.2/10 |
Industry-leading 2D/3D CAD software for structural packaging design, optimization, and production including corrugated boxes.
Comprehensive CAD/CAM system for rapid design, engineering, and manufacturing of corrugated and folding carton packaging.
Advanced production planning, scheduling, and optimization software tailored for corrugated box manufacturing operations.
Integrated ERP and business management suite designed specifically for the flexible packaging and corrugated industry.
Complete ERP solution for corrugated packaging manufacturers handling estimating, production, inventory, and customer management.
Corrugator-focused production management and control software for real-time monitoring and optimization of corrugated board production.
Modular ERP software for corrugated sheet plants and integrated operations, covering sales, production, and logistics.
Cloud-based right-sizing and design software for on-demand custom corrugated box manufacturing and supply chain optimization.
Online platform for designing, prototyping, and ordering custom corrugated packaging with instant quotes and 3D previews.
CAD software for parametric design and production of folding cartons and corrugated packaging structures.
ArtiosCAD
specializedIndustry-leading 2D/3D CAD software for structural packaging design, optimization, and production including corrugated boxes.
Advanced corrugated-specific rule-based automation and the world's largest validated library of production-ready designs
ArtiosCAD from Esko is the industry-leading CAD software for structural packaging design, with specialized modules excelling in corrugated applications like boxes, displays, and point-of-purchase structures. It offers precise 2D drafting, 3D visualization, parametric modeling, and automation to streamline design-to-production workflows. The software includes vast libraries of validated designs, rule-based intelligence, and seamless integration with cutting, creasing, and printing systems for error-free manufacturing.
Pros
- Unmatched precision in corrugated flute modeling, stacking, and die-cut optimization
- Extensive automation with rule packs and parametric design reducing manual errors
- Seamless integration with Esko's prepress and production ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring dedicated training for full mastery
- High upfront cost and hardware demands for optimal performance
- Limited free trial or demo access for casual evaluation
Best For
Established corrugated packaging designers and manufacturers seeking enterprise-grade tools for high-volume, production-accurate structural design.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$15,000-$25,000 per seat plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription tiers from $3,000/year.
Impact
specializedComprehensive CAD/CAM system for rapid design, engineering, and manufacturing of corrugated and folding carton packaging.
Advanced dynamic scheduling engine that automatically optimizes plate usage, knife layouts, and production runs for maximum efficiency
Impact by Arden Software is a comprehensive ERP solution tailored specifically for the corrugated packaging industry, managing everything from customer quoting and order processing to production scheduling, inventory management, and financials. It optimizes corrugated manufacturing workflows by integrating design tools, real-time production tracking, and waste minimization features. Designed for box plants and sheet feeders, it provides end-to-end visibility to enhance efficiency and profitability.
Pros
- Industry-specific modules for corrugated estimating, knife planning, and scheduling
- Strong customization and reporting capabilities
- Seamless integration with CAD/CAM and machinery for real-time data
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Custom pricing can be opaque and high for smaller operations
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated manufacturers seeking a robust, all-in-one ERP to optimize production and reduce waste.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules, users, and deployment; typically annual subscriptions starting around $50,000+ with implementation fees.
Kiwiplan
enterpriseAdvanced production planning, scheduling, and optimization software tailored for corrugated box manufacturing operations.
KiwiOptimizer – patented 3D trim optimization engine delivering industry-leading sheet yield rates up to 98%.
Kiwiplan is a specialized advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software tailored for the corrugated packaging industry, optimizing production from order entry to delivery. It excels in trim optimization, resource scheduling, and waste minimization for corrugators and converters. The platform integrates with ERP systems and machine controls to provide real-time visibility and efficiency gains.
Pros
- Superior trim optimization algorithms that significantly reduce material waste
- Real-time scheduling and production visibility across multiple plants
- Strong integrations with corrugators, ERP, and MES systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires extensive training for full utilization
- High upfront implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large corrugated manufacturers with complex, high-volume production needing advanced optimization to cut costs and improve throughput.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for core modules, plus implementation fees.
PolyPM
enterpriseIntegrated ERP and business management suite designed specifically for the flexible packaging and corrugated industry.
Advanced Product Data Management (PDM) with automated BOM generation and version control for complex corrugated designs
PolyPM by Polygonal Systems is a specialized ERP solution tailored for the corrugated packaging industry, providing comprehensive tools for product lifecycle management from quoting and order entry to production planning, inventory tracking, and shipping. It excels in handling corrugated-specific processes like die cutting, printing, and flute calculations, with strong integration for shop floor control. Designed for converters of all sizes, it centralizes data to reduce errors and optimize operations in a niche market.
Pros
- Deeply tailored features for corrugated workflows, including die inventory, plate management, and precise estimating
- Robust reporting and analytics for production efficiency and cost control
- Scalable for growing operations with modular add-ons
Cons
- Outdated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High initial setup and implementation costs
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated converters needing an all-in-one system for production and inventory management without heavy reliance on custom development.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at $20,000+ for base license, plus per-user fees and annual maintenance (typically 15-20% of license cost); modular pricing available.
Erpack
enterpriseComplete ERP solution for corrugated packaging manufacturers handling estimating, production, inventory, and customer management.
Advanced corrugator trim and nesting optimization for minimal waste and maximum yield
Erpack is a comprehensive ERP software tailored specifically for the corrugated packaging industry, managing end-to-end operations from sales orders and production planning to inventory control and financials. It excels in optimizing corrugated sheet production, minimizing waste through advanced algorithms, and handling complex order specifications like die-cutting and printing. With modules for purchasing, quality control, and reporting, it provides corrugators with industry-specific tools to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific features for corrugator optimization and waste reduction
- Robust production planning and scheduling tools
- Comprehensive integration across sales, inventory, and financial modules
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- User interface feels dated compared to modern cloud ERPs
- Customization requires vendor support
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated box manufacturers needing specialized ERP for production-heavy operations.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $5,000/month for mid-sized deployments, with perpetual license options available.
MDS One
enterpriseCorrugator-focused production management and control software for real-time monitoring and optimization of corrugated board production.
Corrugator Optimizer for intelligent scheduling that dynamically balances orders to minimize trim waste and board usage.
MDS One from MDSI is a comprehensive ERP system tailored specifically for corrugated packaging manufacturers, streamlining operations from order management and production scheduling to inventory control, shipping, and financials. It integrates deeply with plant floor equipment like corrugators and converters for real-time data capture and optimization. The software emphasizes waste reduction, just-in-time production, and detailed reporting to enhance efficiency in the corrugated industry.
Pros
- Industry-specific functionality for corrugators including advanced scheduling and waste tracking
- Seamless integration with manufacturing equipment for real-time production data
- Comprehensive modules covering CRM, inventory, and financials in one platform
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense feature set and older interface elements
- Lengthy implementation process requiring significant customization
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small operations without scalability discounts
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated box and sheet plants needing a robust, vertically integrated ERP to manage complex production workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically perpetual licenses starting at $50,000+ plus annual maintenance, or cloud subscriptions around $200-500/user/month depending on modules.
Axis
enterpriseModular ERP software for corrugated sheet plants and integrated operations, covering sales, production, and logistics.
Advanced production scheduling engine with corrugator optimization and real-time capacity planning
Axis by AAG-IT is a comprehensive ERP solution tailored specifically for the corrugated packaging industry, handling everything from customer quoting and order management to production scheduling, inventory control, and shipping. It integrates key processes like die inventory, plate management, and waste tracking to optimize operations in corrugated manufacturing. The software provides real-time reporting and analytics to help businesses reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Deeply specialized for corrugated workflows including die and plate management
- Strong integration across production, inventory, and financial modules
- Reliable real-time reporting and customizable dashboards
Cons
- Outdated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated manufacturers needing a robust, industry-specific ERP with end-to-end process integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing based on modules and users; typically $10,000+ annually plus implementation fees—contact vendor for quote.
Packsize Design Suite
specializedCloud-based right-sizing and design software for on-demand custom corrugated box manufacturing and supply chain optimization.
Instant 'Perfect Fit' design engine that auto-generates manufacturable corrugated boxes from any product dimensions
Packsize Design Suite is a cloud-based platform specialized in designing custom corrugated boxes for on-demand packaging. Users input product dimensions to generate optimized, right-sized box designs that reduce material waste and shipping costs. It integrates directly with Packsize's manufacturing ecosystem for seamless production and scalability.
Pros
- Rapid generation of custom corrugated designs from product specs
- Strong material optimization for cost savings
- Seamless integration with Packsize manufacturing
Cons
- Best suited for Packsize ecosystem users, limited standalone flexibility
- Pricing requires custom quotes, not transparent
- Learning curve for non-packaging experts
Best For
Packaging managers at e-commerce or manufacturing firms integrated with Packsize services seeking efficient right-sizing.
Pricing
Bundled with Packsize services or machines; custom enterprise quotes starting around $500/month, contact for details.
Packly
specializedOnline platform for designing, prototyping, and ordering custom corrugated packaging with instant quotes and 3D previews.
Real-time 3D pricing simulator that updates quotes instantly as designs change
Packly (pack.ly) is a web-based platform specializing in custom corrugated packaging design, allowing users to create 3D models of boxes, displays, and inserts using drag-and-drop tools and pre-built templates. It offers instant quotes, structural validation, and direct ordering from partnered manufacturers for prototypes to production runs. Primarily aimed at brands and e-commerce, it simplifies corrugated packaging creation without needing advanced CAD software.
Pros
- Intuitive 3D design editor with real-time rendering
- Instant pricing and low-MOQ production options
- Extensive library of corrugated templates and validations
Cons
- Limited advanced tools for complex die-cut or structural engineering
- Higher per-unit costs for large-scale production
- No deep integrations with corrugated ERP or inventory systems
Best For
Small to medium e-commerce brands and marketers needing quick, custom corrugated prototypes without in-house design expertise.
Pricing
Free design tool; production starts at $0.50-$5 per unit based on size, quantity (MOQ 1+), and specs, with volume discounts.
PackDesign
specializedCAD software for parametric design and production of folding cartons and corrugated packaging structures.
Parametric design engine with corrugated-specific folding and stacking simulations for error-free production
PackDesign by Artsoft is a specialized CAD software designed for creating precise designs of corrugated packaging, including boxes, trays, and displays. It features parametric modeling, 3D visualization, and automated generation of production files like die-cuts and stacking data. Tailored for the corrugated industry, it accounts for material properties to ensure manufacturability and efficiency.
Pros
- Highly specialized for corrugated board with accurate material simulation
- Extensive parametric library for quick standard design variations
- Strong output for production including nesting and BOMs
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to traditional CAD interface
- Limited integration with modern ERP or cloud systems
- Outdated UI compared to newer competitors
Best For
Mid-sized corrugated packaging manufacturers needing robust, industry-specific design tools for custom production.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at approximately €4,000-€6,000 plus annual maintenance; custom quotes for modules and support.
Conclusion
The reviewed corrugated software tools reflect a range of strengths in design, production, and management, with ArtiosCAD leading as the top choice, offering industry-leading 2D/3D CAD for structural optimization. Impact and Kiwiplan follow, providing robust solutions for quick design and production planning, each suited to specific operational needs. Together, they highlight the industry's shift toward efficiency and innovation.
Don't miss out on enhancing your corrugated packaging workflow—explore ArtiosCAD, the top-ranked tool, and experience seamless design and production advantages.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison