Abstract: A shipping carton having a force receiving area located adjacent opposing edges of the carton's top and bottom edges. The force receiving area is configured to deform in the presence of an external force and distribute that force through the force receiving area while minimizing the transfer of force directly to the appliance and minimizing damage to the surface panels of the shipping carton.

Abstract: A carton particularly well suited for storing packaged dry goods is designed such that the closure flaps that close a top opening of the carton do not obstruct the loading of goods into the carton through the top opening when the carton is placed on its side. The carton includes a front and rear panel that bow slightly outwardly so as to apply tension to the closure flaps connected to the front and rear panel. This tension prevents the flaps from falling into the opening during loading of the carton. This tension is created by vertical score lines in the front and rear panels as well as their associated closure flaps. In this regard, the mechanism to hold the closure flaps open is integrally formed with the carton.