Not every package can go into the same type of box. For example, a soft t-shirt, a picture frame, and a long poster require different types of protection. Of all the ways to get the most out of your shipping supplies, choosing the right packaging for your items is one of the simplest ways to help ensure that your customer receives their merchandise intact.
Generally speaking, boxes offer the best protection for heavy, hard, or breakable items. Boxes provide rigid walls that protect the contents against dings and pressure. Make sure the bottom of the box can support the weight of the items inside. If the box bends as soon as you lift it, there is a good chance it is not sturdy enough to withstand shipping.
Soft goods, such as clothing and fabrics that do not tend to lose their shape, are usually protected by poly mailers. These products typically fit comfortably inside a poly mailer. Poly mailers are useful to keep on hand because they take up very little storage space and add minimal weight to shipments. However, avoid using poly mailers for items with sharp edges that could puncture the material.
Padded mailers surround smaller items with protective cushioning. They are suitable for products such as phone covers, small jewelry cases, and small books. The padded material provides protection against minor impacts, but it may not prevent crushing if an extremely delicate item is placed under a heavier package.
Flat items that should not bend are typically protected using paperboard mailers. Photos, documents, thin books, and prints are examples of items that may require this level of protection. When selecting a paperboard mailer, choose one that remains firm when gently pressed in the middle. A weak mailer may collapse during transit and cause creases or other damage to the contents.
Rolled items, such as posters, maps, plans, and certain types of fabric, can be protected by placing them inside shipping tubes. Make sure the caps are securely fastened at both ends. The contents should also fit securely inside the tube without excessive movement that could damage the item's edges during transit.
Regardless of which packaging option you choose, size is important. A package that is too small may cause an item to bend, split, or experience unnecessary pressure. On the other hand, a package that is too large may allow the contents to shift during shipping. Always measure the item after applying any necessary wrapping, then select packaging that provides a suitable fit.
In addition to measuring the packaged item, consider the total weight of the contents when determining which packaging option best meets your needs. For instance, a lightweight mailer may adequately protect a single lightweight product but may fail to contain multiple products with a substantially greater combined weight. Items packed together may also require stronger materials or additional internal cushioning compared with individual products shipped separately.
Consider creating a simple reference sheet for your packaging station that lists common products, recommended shipping supplies, suitable package sizes, and any required cushioning. This guide can help new employees understand how to package different products correctly while saving experienced packers time by providing a quick reference for routine decisions.
Choosing shipping supplies is not always about finding the lowest-cost option. The right packaging should protect your customer's order without adding unnecessary dimensions or weight. By matching containers to the products being shipped, you can improve packing efficiency, reduce the risk of damage, and maintain the overall quality of your shipments.
