Guide · 31 Oct 2026
Reverse vs straight tuck end
What changes between RTE and STE: flap direction, the front panel and cost.
Both are tuck end cartons with a tuck flap at the top and the bottom. The difference is which panel each flap hinges on.
Reverse tuck end (RTE)
The top flap hinges on the back panel and tucks toward the front; the bottom flap hinges on the front panel and tucks toward the back. Because the flaps point in opposite directions, the blanks nest closely on a press sheet, which is why RTE is usually the most economical tuck style at volume.
Straight tuck end (STE)
Both flaps hinge on the back panel and tuck toward the front. Nothing hinges on the front panel, so when the carton is opened or displayed the front stays one clean, uninterrupted face. That suits windows, hang tabs and designs that run over the top edge.
Which to choose
| RTE | STE | |
|---|---|---|
| Top flap hinges on | Back panel | Back panel |
| Bottom flap hinges on | Front panel | Back panel |
| Front panel | Has a fold at the bottom edge | Uninterrupted |
| Cost at volume | Usually lowest | Similar, sometimes slightly higher |
| Typical use | Everyday cartons | Windows, hang tabs, display faces |
Download both as free dielines from the dielines page, or go to reverse tuck end and straight tuck end for prices.