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10 Best Cardboard Trays for Every Need in 2025: Top Picks & Reviews
In the ever-evolving world of packaging solutions, the best cardboard trays have become essential for both personal and commercial use in 2025. They are a versatile choice for a variety of applications, from food presentation to organizing items. With the growing need for eco-friendly options, cardboard trays are an excellent alternative to plastic or foam trays, offering sustainability without compromising on functionality. Let’s explore some of the top products available on Amazon and their unique features.
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1. Amazon Basics Cardboard Buffet Trays
Best For: Catering Events and Parties
The Amazon Basics Cardboard Buffet Trays are perfect for larger gatherings and events. These recyclable trays boast a sturdy construction, making them ideal for serving food items ranging from appetizers to desserts.
- 15-Pack 13" X 9" X 3".Package includes 15 pcs karft food seving tray, enough for your various needs.These 2 lb paper food trays are 13" x 9"x 3"
- Made of premium quality kraft paper, durable, eco-friendly, safe to health, perfect restaurant and party supplies. They are made of 350GMS premium, sturdy and durable food grade kraft paper.
- These paper food trays are suitable for birthday,party,wedding,baby shower,festivals,concession stand,school lunches,movie night,BBQ,perfect for holding hot dogs,cookies,fries and other snacks
These trays are manufactured with a sturdy cardboard material that balances flexibility and strength, allowing them to support a significant amount of weight without bending or collapsing. Additionally, they come in a classic black color which offers a sleek aesthetic for any occasion.
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy
- Eco-friendly
- Available in bulk
- Visually appealing design
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Limited color options
2. ULINE Cardboard Trays
Best For: Industrial and Heavy-Duty Use
The ULINE Cardboard Trays are your go-to option for heavy-duty tasks. Made from reinforced cardboard, these trays are perfect for shipping and storing a variety of items.
- 15-Pack 13" X 9" X 3".Package includes 15 pcs karft food seving tray, enough for your various needs.These 2 lb paper food trays are 13" x 9"x 3"
- Made of premium quality kraft paper, durable, eco-friendly, safe to health, perfect restaurant and party supplies. They are made of 350GMS premium, sturdy and durable food grade kraft paper.
- These paper food trays are suitable for birthday,party,wedding,baby shower,festivals,concession stand,school lunches,movie night,BBQ,perfect for holding hot dogs,cookies,fries and other snacks
These trays offer excellent load-bearing capacity while remaining lightweight. They also feature a stackable design, allowing for efficient storage, making them suitable for warehouses or retail environments.
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Stackable design
- Lightweight
- Non-toxic materials
Cons:
- May not be aesthetically pleasing
- Less suitable for food presentation
3. Smartake Bamboo Disposable Trays
Best For: Eco-Conscious Consumers
The Smartake Bamboo Disposable Trays offer a unique twist on traditional cardboard options. These trays are made from bamboo pulp, highlighting the best cardboard trays for sustainability in 2025.
−$3.00
- Bulk Packaging: each package comes with 500 pieces disposable appetizer boats, making it ideal for large parties, events or business functions; The large number of plates ensures you'll never run short during your event and are well prepared even for unexpected guests
- Convenient Size: our disposable serving plate measures approximately 4 x 2.56 inches/ 11.5 x 6.5 cm, making them well sized for serving appetizers, snacks, desserts, appetizers, salads or sushi; You can place a variety of foods without worrying about spillovers, enhancing your party or event's menu with finesse
- Quality Material: the sushi serving tray bamboo is made of reliable wood and bamboo, not easy to break, tear or deform; These materials not only deliver a sleek, stylish and special aesthetic appeal, but are also safe and non toxic, providing you with a practical alternative to plastic, while maintaining a pleasant dining experience
- Easy Clean up: these bamboo appetizer plates are machine pressed and ultrasonically bonded without glue, and designed for simplicity and convenience; After your event, simply dispose of these plates responsibly and avoid the tedious task of washing up; They offer a time saving method of entertaining
- Versatile for Wide Occasions: these bamboo plates disposable seamlessly fit into any setting, such as birthdays, celebrations, dinners, birthdays, family gatherings, dinner, camping, restaurants, BBQs, baby showers, weddings, anniversaries and more, can add a sense of elegance and rustic charm, and also surprise your guests
These biodegradable trays are perfect for food service, picnic outings, or any event that requires convenience without the environmental impact. The rich, natural color of bamboo also elevates food presentation.
Pros:
- 100% biodegradable
- Stylish natural finish
- Excellent for food service
- Non-toxic
Cons:
- More expensive than regular cardboard
- Limited load capacity
4. HiGift 50-Pack Cardboard Trays
Best For: Small Businesses
The HiGift 50-Pack Cardboard Trays are perfect for small businesses or individuals looking to package small items effectively.
- Package includes 50 packs of 4 corner pop up brown kraft paper food trays, sufficient quantity to meet your diverse using needs. Each paperboard food box tray measures approx. 8.7" length x 5.5" width x 2.4" height. The ideal size to give you enough room to place your main course, side dish and drink in one paper container
- Our 4 corner pop up food trays are made of high-class food-grade kraft paper that is not easy to tear or rip, sturdy and chip-resistant, leak-proof and grease-resistant, just enjoy your yummy food without worrying about spillage or grease stains
- DEAYOU kraft paper food trays feature with thoughtful "Pop Up" construction, which are not only perfect for holding pastas, sandwiches, burgers, fries, soda, hot dogs, nachos, tacos, popcorn, sauces, snacks, cookies, cake, ice-cream, single-serve portions of food, but also great for storing small items or being used as food bowls for small pets
- These microwavable kraft food box trays are suitable for holding hot and cold party appetizers and catered foods without causing a mess. They are recyclable and disposable, just throw them away after used, which can make cleaning up after a picnic or party easy, hassle-free and time-saving. Also foldable and space-saving
- Our vintage style disposable brown food holders can nicely bring a rustic classic feeling to your house, pantries, dining rooms, kitchens, office, food trucks, restaurants, birthday parties, weddings, carnivals, picnics, BBQ. They are also convenient to hold your food when you are at stadiums, theaters, concession stands or any indoor and outdoor events
These trays are made from recyclable materials and are designed for single-use, making them ideal for items such as pastries, cupcakes, or chocolates. Their lightweight design ensures they won’t weigh down your products during shipping.
Pros:
- Affordable bulk option
- Lightweight
- Recyclable
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy items
- Single-use only
5. Chef’s Path Clear Plastic Food Trays
Best For: Food Presentation
The Chef’s Path Clear Plastic Food Trays are a hybrid option between cardboard and plastic, designed for moments when visibility is key.
- GREAT VALUE: Ample 6-Tray pack ensures convenience, perfect for gatherings or daily use. Never run out of food trays for party buffet, stay prepared to serve with ease. Enjoy flexibility and style with this convenient supply.
- ELEGANG FOR ALL OCCASIONS: Our exquisite fruit trays for serving for party are the epitome of elegance and sophistication, making serving platters a perfect choice for all occasions, from weddings and parties to intimate gatherings and casual parties its for all your catering supplies buffet display.
- STURDY, DURABLE AND HEAVY DUTY: Plastic serving tray is Crafted to last and endure frequent use, our heavy-duty platters for serving food are impressively sturdy and durable, the disposable serving tray provides a reliable, unbreakable option for any event.
- SAFETY AND HEALTHY: Our party tray crafted from safe, BPA free and healthy materials, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite food without any worrying, providing you with a worry-free large serving platter and enjoyable eating experience.
- 100% CUSTOMER SERVICE SATISFACTION: We value our customers and your shopping experience are very important to us. If you have any unpleasant experience with our plastic serving trays and platters please feel free to contact us. We insure 100% satisfaction.
These trays provide a clear view of the delectable items inside, making them great for catering purposes or dessert displays. While not traditional cardboard, their purpose is to enhance presentation.
Pros:
- Clear visibility
- Suitable for multi-use
- Stylish look for events
Cons:
- Not eco-friendly
- May not be as sturdy as cardboard options
6. Nutricraft Eco-Friendly Cardboard Trays
Best For: Eco-Friendly Events
The Nutricraft Eco-Friendly Cardboard Trays focus entirely on sustainability.
- Material: Made of high quality thickened food grade kraft paper material,safe and reliable use,better choice compared to plastic and foam trays
- Size: The max capacity of these smll paper food trays is 1/2 lb.The size of each paper food tray is 5" x 3.1"/13cm x 8cm,small and easy to carry.PLEASE confirm whether the size of the tray meets your needs before buying
- Grease resistan: The inside of paper food trays features with food grade PE film coating,which has great performance in water and grease resistant,convenient and easy to use, you don't have to worry about sauce spilling or seeping through
- Best for party: These paper food trays are recyclable and disposable.Ideal party supplies for you,no more worrying about washing the dishes,use once and throw them away
- Widely use: These paper food trays are suitable for serving fries, popcorn, taco, bread, barbecue, taco, small cakes, desserts, candies, etc. ideal for food stalls, restaurants, cinemas, shops, supermarkets, Christmas, Halloween, wedding, birthday, event, picnic,also can be applied as food bowl for cats,dogs and more small pets
These trays are produced using post-consumer recycled materials. They are perfect for restaurants and events that lean towards eco-friendliness, ensuring that the best cardboard trays also help the planet.
Pros:
- Made from recycled materials
- Biodegradable
- Solid structure
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost
- Limited design options
7. Stesens Disposable Paper Trays
Best For: Quick Service
For those running food stalls or quick-service concepts, the Stesens Disposable Paper Trays provide a practical solution.
- Product Size:Paper food trays have a maximum capacity of 1/4 lb. Paper food boats measure 2.76” in length at the bottom, 4.13” at the top, 2.95” in width at the top and 0.98” in height
- Quality Material:Food serving boats are made of food grade paper, microwaveable, sturdy and durable,The film inside the paper food boat trays is specifically designed to resist grease and is leak-proof, making it an ideal alternative to traditional disposable food trays
- Widely Use:Small paper food boat are suitable for a variety of food items, including popcorn, desserts, tacos, nachos, small cakes, French fries, chips, salads, fruits, cupcakes, candies, sauces and more
- Various Scenes:250 pack food holder trays are recyclable and ideal for a wide range of events and settings. The disposable design makes clean-up quick and easy, and they are suitable for use in food stalls, restaurants, banquets, parties, catering, family days out, shops, cinemas, hotels, pubs, and offices
- Notes:We value our customers and your shopping experience is very important to us. If for any reason our mini paper food trays don't meet your standards, please feel free to contact us, and we will give you a satisfactory response within 24 hours
Their wide shape and shallow depth allow customers easy access to food items while promoting a casual dining experience.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Lightweight
- Convenient for fast-service meals
Cons:
- Not very durable for heavy items
- Single-use product
8. Pactiv Evergreen Eco-Grade Trays
Best For: Versatile Use
The Pactiv Evergreen Eco-Grade Trays are designed for food services and packaging.
- Sturdy, lightweight foam trays.
- Can be used in blast freezer, refrigerator, for a heated display or at room temperature.
- Rigid construction stands up to rugged handling.
- Designed for in-store use for hand wrapping or wrapping on low tension machines.
These trays are known for their versatility and strength, accommodating various foods without compromising on quality. They are great for outdoor picnics or food delivery.
Pros:
- Versatile design
- Strong and durable
- Eco-friendly materials
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than standard trays
- Limited aesthetics
9. CiboWares Kraft Paper Trays
Best For: Casual Gatherings
The CiboWares Kraft Paper Trays are excellent for informal parties and family gatherings.
- Package of 100ct 2lb Natural Kraft Eco Friendly Paper Food Trays. A must have for your next outdoor event such as a BBQ, picnic , work event, concession stand or outdoor party
- The ideal paper food tray for environmentally conscious consumers. Made with all-natural kraft paperboard material that is sourced from sustainably managed forests and contains at least 18% recycled wood fiber content. Trays are made Chroline Free
- The perfect size trays for tacos, veggies, candy, desserts, sandwiches, hot dogs, nachos , fries and all other snacks
- A great way to control portions to help with profits at your concession stand or food truck. Can take on any hot or cold meal without having to worry about any mess or leakage
- Forget about cleanup or having to wash dishses after an event. Our paper trays are disposalbe and environmentally friendly
These trays are made from sturdy kraft paper and offer a rustic look that complements casual dining well. They are also disposable, which adds convenience after the gathering.
Pros:
- Rustic appearance
- Sturdy construction
- Affordable option for large gatherings
Cons:
- Not machine washable
- May soak through if used for wet foods
10. DUEBEL Cardboard Snack Trays
Best For: Snacks and Appetizers
The DUEBEL Cardboard Snack Trays are specifically designed for snacks, making them an ideal choice for serving appetizers and finger foods during parties.
- Adequate amount: you will receive 100 pieces of cardboard trays, enough to meet your different needs, and each disposable food tray is about 8.7 x 5.5 x 2.4 inches, proper size allows you enough room to pack the main course, side dishes and drinks in a carton
- Reliable material: our cardboard box trays are made of quality kraft material, not easy to tear or deform, no leakage and grease resistant, reliable and sturdy, these popcorn carrying trays can support you to enjoy delicious food without worrying about oil spills
- Pop up design and universal use: these stadium paper trays have a pop up design and are easy to use, cardboard snack trays can not only be applied to hold sandwiches, burgers, fries, hot dogs, nachos, tacos, popcorn, snacks, cookies, cakes, ice cream, etc., but also for storing small items or being applied as a bowl for pets
- Collapsible and easy to apply: these cardboard food trays are suitable for loading hot and cold catering foods; These snack tray boxes are disposable, so they're easier, less time consuming, and less cumbersome to clean up after a picnic or party; Also collapsible design saves storage space and is easy to store and carry
- Multiple uses: these concessions stand decorations are ideal supplies that can bring a rustic feel to your home, pantry, dining room, kitchen, office, food truck, dining room, birthday party, wedding, carnival, picnic, barbecue; Paper food trays also make it easy to keep your food while you're at a stadium, theater, concession stand, or any indoor and outdoor event
Their design allows for easy handling and minimal mess, ensuring a pleasant eating experience.
Pros:
- Perfect for snack portions
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Eco-friendly materials used
Cons:
- Not suitable for liquids
- Limited size options
With this comprehensive guide, you should be well-equipped to select the best cardboard trays for your needs in 2025. From casual gatherings to professional environments, there are plenty of options available on Amazon to suit every circumstance, all while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.
Buying Guide for Cardboard Trays
Cardboard trays are versatile and economical solutions for various needs, from packaging and transporting items to organizing and promoting products. When selecting the right cardboard tray, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best option for your specific requirements.
1. Purpose of Use
- Food Service: Look for trays that are food-safe and capable of handling wet or greasy items, such as takeout containers or baked goods.
- Retail Display: Opt for trays designed for showcasing products attractively in stores.
- Shipping and Storage: Ensure the trays are sturdy enough to hold weight during transport or storage.
2. Material Quality
- Thickness: Consider the GSM (grams per square meter) rating to determine the strength and durability of the cardboard.
- Coating: Some trays come with moisture-resistant or greaseproof coatings, ideal for food items.
3. Size and Dimensions
- Standard Sizes: If you’re packaging specific products, check dimensions to ensure a good fit.
- Custom Sizes: If standard sizes don’t meet your needs, consider custom-made trays.
4. Design and Style
- Flat vs. Compartmentalized: Determine if you need a flat tray or one with compartments for organizing items.
- Printed or Plain: Decide whether you want printed designs for branding or plain options for minimalistic presentation.
5. Eco-Friendliness
- Recycled Materials: Look for trays made from recycled cardboard, which are more environmentally friendly.
- Biodegradable Options: Consider trays that break down easily in the environment if sustainability is a priority.
6. Load Capacity
- Assess the weight capacity required for your items to ensure that the trays can safely hold them without collapsing.
7. Quantity and Cost
- Bulk Purchases vs. Small Quantities: Determine how many trays you need. Buying in bulk may reduce the cost per unit.
- Budget: Compare prices from various suppliers, ensuring you get the best value for your chosen quality.
8. Supplier Reputation
- Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the reliability and quality of trays from different suppliers.
- Customer Service: Opt for suppliers that offer good customer support in case of issues with your order.
9. Shipping and Delivery
- Shipping Costs: Factor in shipping fees if ordering online.
- Delivery Time: Ensure the delivery time fits your needs, especially if you have a tight schedule.
10. Regulatory Compliance
- For food-related uses, ensure that the trays comply with local health regulations and safety standards.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cardboard tray involves considering various factors such as purpose, material quality, size, design, and environmental impact. By assessing these factors and comparing suppliers, you can find the perfect trays to meet your needs, ensuring they serve their intended purpose effectively and efficiently.
