Many of the cardboard-producing paper mills around the world shut down at different points during the COVID-19 pandemic. While plants have come back online, theyre still scrambling to fill a backlog of orders.

Meanwhile, consumer shopping habits altered by the pandemic are also a factor. With most of the world having experienced some sort of lockdown since the beginning of 2020, homebound shoppers have turned to Amazon and other online outlets in increasing numbers for life’s necessities.

Source: Cardboard shortages deal another blow to strained supply chains - Ars Technica

This is a good time to appreciate what you already have.