In the fast-moving world of e-commerce and logistics, shipping isn’t just about moving a package—it’s about protecting your product, reinforcing your brand, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a large warehouse, having the right shipping supplies is crucial to your operation’s success.
In this blog, we’ll break down the must-have shipping materials, their purposes, and tips for choosing the best ones for your business.
Why Shipping Supplies Matter
Good shipping supplies do more than just pack a product. They:
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Prevent damage during transit
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Improve customer experience with professional packaging
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Support brand identity through custom materials
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Help you meet postal or courier regulations
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Save money by reducing returns and product loss
Essential Shipping Supplies You Need
Here’s a breakdown of the core shipping supplies every business should consider:
1. Shipping Boxes
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Available in various sizes, strengths, and styles (single wall, double wall).
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Choose the right size to minimize empty space and avoid crushing.
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Corrugated cardboard is the most common material.
Tip: Use box size that fits your item snugly to reduce the need for excess filler.
2. Padded Mailers & Envelopes
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Ideal for books, clothing, electronics, and small items.
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Options include bubble mailers, poly mailers, and eco-friendly padded envelopes.
Tip: Use tamper-proof or self-sealing mailers for added security.
3. Packing Tape
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Comes in acrylic, hot melt, and solvent-based adhesives.
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Reinforced or water-activated tape adds strength and security.
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Consider branded tape for a professional appearance.
4. Void Fill & Cushioning Materials
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Bubble wrap: Protects fragile items.
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Air pillows: Lightweight and ideal for filling space.
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Packing peanuts: Great for irregularly shaped items.
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Kraft paper: Eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Tip: Don’t overfill your package—just enough to secure the product.
5. Shipping Labels & Printers
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Thermal printers produce high-quality labels without ink.
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Labels should include clear “To” and “From” information, barcodes, and handling instructions.
Tip: Invest in integrated shipping software to automate and print labels in batches.
6. Stretch Wrap & Strapping
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Keeps items together on pallets.
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Provides water resistance and protects from dirt or tampering.
7. Custom Branded Supplies
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Custom boxes, tape, and tissue paper help build brand loyalty.
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Makes unboxing more memorable, especially for online retailers.
Specialty Supplies (Depending on Your Industry)
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Insulated shippers for perishables and temperature-sensitive goods
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Hazmat packaging for dangerous or regulated materials
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Document pouches for invoices, packing slips, and customs forms
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Tamper-evident seals for high-value or sensitive shipments
Sustainability in Shipping
Eco-conscious customers expect greener packaging. Here’s how to meet the demand:
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Use recycled boxes and biodegradable mailers
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Choose paper-based void fill instead of plastic
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Encourage recyclable packaging with clear labels
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Opt for right-sizing to reduce waste and shipping costs
Shipping Supply Checklist for Businesses
Here’s a basic checklist to get you started:
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Boxes (various sizes)
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Mailers (bubble, poly, or padded)
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Packing tape and dispenser
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Bubble wrap or paper filler
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Shipping labels and printer
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Stretch wrap or shrink wrap
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Scissors or box cutters
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Return labels or stickers
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Document pouches (if needed)
Conclusion
Shipping supplies are more than packaging—they’re an extension of your business. Investing in the right materials improves product safety, saves money, boosts brand reputation, and keeps your customers happy.
