Best Packaging Supplies for Etsy Sellers

Thoughtful packaging supplies for Etsy sellers turn a simple delivery into a memorable unboxing moment. With the right mix of mailers, boxes, tissue paper, stickers, thank‑you cards, and eco‑friendly fillers, you can protect your products, boost your branding, and delight buyers so they happily come back (and leave glowing reviews).

In this guide, you’ll discover practical, budget‑friendly options—from sturdy corrugated boxes and padded mailers to branded labels and rubber stamps—that work for handmade jewelry, clothing, art prints, and more. We’ll also look at planet‑friendly materials and small, low‑cost touches that help your shop stand out. By the end, you’ll know exactly which packaging supplies for Etsy sellers are worth investing in.

What do Etsy sellers actually need for packaging?

Basic supplies every Etsy shop should keep on hand

You do not need a warehouse of fancy packaging to start. A small, well‑chosen set of basics will cover most Etsy orders and keep them safe and cute.

Most shops are well served by keeping these on hand:

Outer packaging: a mix of poly mailers, padded mailers, and a few sizes of cardboard boxes or rigid mailers for flat items. Right‑sized packaging reduces damage and shipping costs.
Inner protection: bubble wrap or foam sheets, tissue paper, and some kind of void fill like kraft paper, crinkle paper, or air pillows. These keep items from rattling around and help prevent breakage.
Basic tools: good packing tape, a tape dispenser, scissors, a box cutter, and a small digital scale so you can weigh parcels accurately before buying labels.
Labels and stickers: shipping labels, “fragile” or “do not bend” stickers for delicate items, and a few branded or thank‑you stickers for a friendly touch.

With that core kit, you can safely ship most handmade, vintage, or craft‑supply orders without overcomplicating things.

How packaging needs change by product type (jewelry, prints, clothing, decor, etc.)

Different Etsy niches have slightly different packaging priorities, so it helps to think in categories:

Jewelry and tiny items: These need small boxes or padded mailers plus individual protection. Many sellers use cotton‑filled jewelry boxes, small organza or kraft pouches, and a layer of bubble wrap or tissue around each piece to prevent tangling and scratching.
Art prints, stickers, and photos: The main risk is bending. Rigid mailers, stay‑flat envelopes, or flat boxes with chipboard backing and a plastic or glassine sleeve work well. Adding “do not bend” labels helps, but the stiff packaging is what really protects the corners.
Clothing and textiles: These are usually not fragile, so focus on keeping them clean, dry, and nicely presented. Many sellers fold items neatly, place them in a clear or compostable bag, then ship in a poly mailer or lightweight box. A bit of tissue paper makes it feel more like a boutique purchase.
Home decor, candles, ceramics, and other fragile goods: Here, protection comes first. Wrap each item in several layers of bubble wrap or foam, cushion all sides with paper or peanuts, and use sturdy corrugated boxes. For very delicate pieces, double‑boxing (a smaller packed box inside a larger one with padding around it) greatly reduces breakage.

Thinking by product type keeps you from over‑packing soft goods or under‑protecting breakables.

One-time tools vs. consumable supplies

It is helpful to separate one‑time investments from ongoing consumables so you can budget and restock smartly.

One‑time or rare purchases are things you buy once and use for months or years:

A reliable digital postal scale
Tape dispenser and scissors
Box cutter and bone folder (for folding boxes cleanly)
Reusable measuring tape for checking box sizes and postage tiers

Consumable supplies are the items you will reorder regularly as your Etsy shop grows:

Mailers, boxes, and rigid envelopes
Bubble wrap, foam sheets, tissue paper, and void fill
Packing tape and labels
Branded stickers, thank‑you cards, and other small inserts

Knowing which is which helps you start lean: invest once in a few solid tools, then test small quantities of consumables until you know what your real order volume and product mix look like.

Best mailers, boxes, and envelopes for Etsy orders

When to use poly mailers vs. cardboard boxes

Poly mailers are perfect for soft, non-fragile items. Use them for clothing, fabric accessories, soft plushies, and other items that will not break if the package is dropped. They are lightweight, which helps keep Etsy shipping costs down, and they take up very little storage space in your packing area. If you choose padded poly mailers, they add a bit of cushioning for things like T‑shirts with pins, small pouches, or knitwear.

Cardboard boxes are better for anything that can bend, crack, or get crushed. Use boxes for ceramics, candles in glass, delicate decor, gift sets, and higher-value orders where presentation and protection both matter. Boxes stack well, look more “giftable,” and give you room for inserts and branding, but they do weigh more than poly mailers.

A simple rule: if you would not be comfortable tossing the naked product across the room, it probably belongs in a box, not a plain poly mailer.

Best box and mailer types for small, lightweight items

For small, lightweight Etsy items, you want packaging that is sturdy but not bulky. Popular choices include:

Mailer boxes (sometimes called shipping boxes): Great for jewelry sets, small candles, pins, and small decor. They open like a little gift box and are easy to brand.
Small corrugated cartons: Ideal when you need a bit more strength, for example for multiple small items shipped together.
Padded mailers: Good for small, slightly delicate items like enamel pins, keychains, or small accessories that need a bit of cushioning but not a full box.

If the item is tiny, consider placing it in a small inner box or jewelry box, then into a padded mailer. This keeps weight low while still feeling special.

Rigid and padded envelopes for art prints, cards, and photos

Art prints, greeting cards, stickers on backing sheets, and photos need bend protection more than thick cushioning. That is where rigid and padded envelopes shine.

Rigid mailers (chipboard or cardboard): Best for flat prints, postcards, and stickers. They resist bending and keep corners crisp. Add a “Do Not Bend” note on the outside and a backing board inside for extra support on larger sizes.
Padded envelopes: Useful for small framed prints, photo sets, or card bundles with embellishments. The padding protects corners and edges from dings while still keeping the package slim.

For larger or high-value prints, you can combine a rigid mailer with an inner sleeve or cello bag to protect against moisture, then add corner protectors or extra board if needed.

Choosing the right size packaging so you’re not shipping “air”

Choosing the right size mailers and boxes is one of the easiest ways to save on shipping and look professional. Aim for packaging that leaves just enough room for your protective materials, with minimal empty space.

If the box is too big, you pay more for both dimensional weight and filler, and the item can rattle around and break. If it is too tight, there is no room for padding. A good rule is to allow about 1 to 2 inches of space around the product for cushioning, then size your box or mailer accordingly.

Keep a small range of “go‑to” sizes that match your most common orders, and test-pack a few sample shipments. When you open the packed box and see mostly product and padding instead of empty corners, you know you are no longer shipping air.

Protective materials to keep your products safe and snug

Bubble wrap, foam sheets, and when to double-box

Bubble wrap and foam sheets are your first line of defense against drops, bumps, and rough handling. Bubble wrap is great for wrapping individual items, especially anything with corners or delicate details. For very fragile pieces, use at least two layers and tape the wrap to itself so it does not unravel in transit.

Foam sheets are thinner and more flexible, so they work well between stacked items, around glossy surfaces that scratch easily, or inside small boxes where bubble wrap feels too bulky. They are perfect for things like coasters, ornaments, and small ceramics.

Double-boxing is worth the extra effort when:

The item is heavy and fragile (candles in glass, large mugs, vases).
There is a lot of empty space around the product.
You are shipping internationally or with a long transit time.

In a double-box setup, the product is wrapped and cushioned inside a snug inner box, then that box is surrounded by at least 2 inches of padding inside a larger outer box.

Paper void fill, crinkle paper, and tissue for cushioning

Paper void fill is ideal for filling empty spaces so items do not rattle around. Regular kraft paper works well when you crumple it loosely and tuck it around the product. It is simple, recyclable, and budget friendly.

Crinkle paper adds both cushioning and a cute, gift-like feel. Use it under and around the item, not just on top. It is especially nice for gift sets, subscription-style boxes, and anything where presentation matters.

Tissue paper is more for light cushioning and presentation than serious impact protection. Wrap clothing, prints in sleeves, or small boxes in tissue to prevent scuffs and to create a “gift unboxing” moment. For breakables, combine tissue with sturdier padding like bubble wrap or paper fill.

Packing peanuts and eco-friendly alternatives

Traditional packing peanuts can protect well, but they are messy and often not recyclable. If you use them, try to reserve them for very fragile, oddly shaped items that need cushioning from every angle.

Eco-friendly alternatives are much more popular now. Options include:

Starch-based peanuts that dissolve in water.
Shredded cardboard or paper from your own offcuts.
Molded paper or cardboard inserts that cradle products.

These choices still provide shock absorption but are easier for customers to dispose of responsibly. Whatever you choose, avoid overfilling the box. The lid should close without forcing it, and the item should not move when you gently shake the package.

Taping, sealing, and reinforcing corners for safe shipping

Even the best padding fails if the box pops open. Use strong packing tape, not office tape. Seal all main seams with at least one strip, then add a second strip on heavier boxes. The classic “H-tape” method works well: tape along the center seam and both edge seams on the top and bottom flaps.

Reinforce corners and weak spots, especially on reused boxes or heavy shipments. Add extra tape where flaps meet and along any tears or dents. For very heavy or fragile orders, you can also:

Add tape bands all the way around the box in both directions.
Place a small piece of tape over any label edges so they do not peel.

A quick final shake test is your best friend. If nothing shifts and all seams feel solid, your Etsy order is much more likely to arrive safe, snug, and ready to delight your customer.

Cute branding touches your Etsy customers will love

Custom logo stickers, stamps, and branded tape

Custom logo stickers, stamps, and branded tape are some of the easiest ways to make your Etsy packaging feel “pro” without committing to fully custom boxes. A simple round logo sticker can seal tissue paper, close a mailer, or decorate the outside of a plain box. Stamps are great if you want flexibility: you can stamp your logo on kraft boxes, paper bags, or even thank-you cards as you need them, instead of ordering big printed runs.

Branded tape is perfect when you ship a lot of boxes. It turns a plain carton into a mini billboard and helps customers spot their happy mail right away. If you are on a tight budget, start with one item (usually stickers) and add others later. Keep your colors, fonts, and logo consistent so every piece of packaging feels like it belongs to the same brand family.

Using tissue paper, ribbon, and twine without breaking the bank

Tissue paper, ribbon, and twine instantly make an order feel like a gift, but they do not have to be expensive. Choose one main color that matches your brand and buy a bulk pack of tissue instead of lots of different patterns. You can dress it up with a logo sticker or stamp instead of paying for custom-printed sheets.

For ribbon and twine, think simple: cotton string, jute twine, or a narrow satin ribbon can look charming and still be affordable. Use short lengths to tie bundles or attach tags rather than wrapping the whole box. If you sell many small items, pre-cut a bunch of pieces while you watch TV so packing stays quick and fun.

Thank-you cards, business cards, and discount inserts

A small thank-you card is one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost branding touches you can add. It can be as simple as a postcard-style card with your logo on one side and a short printed message on the other, plus a quick handwritten name or note for a personal feel.

Business cards work well as tiny info hubs: include your shop URL, social handles, and maybe a QR code that links to your Etsy shop or review page. Discount inserts are great for encouraging repeat orders. Offer a gentle perk like “10% off your next order” or “Free shipping over a certain amount,” and make the code easy to read and remember. Try not to overload the package with too many separate cards; one or two well-designed pieces are enough.

Easy ways to make packaging “Instagrammable” on a budget

To make your Etsy packaging Instagrammable, focus on a few small “wow” moments rather than expensive custom everything. Think about what a customer’s phone camera will see when they open the box: a neat layout, a pop of color, maybe a cute message on top like “You’ve got great taste” or “Happy mail just for you.” Even a simple kraft box with colored tissue, a logo sticker, and a friendly note can photograph beautifully.

You can also:

Print a small card with your hashtag and invite customers to share their unboxing.
Add one fun surprise, like an extra sticker or a tiny sample, tucked under the tissue.
Keep the inside tidy: no messy tape, crumpled paper, or smudged ink.

When everything looks clean, cohesive, and a little bit special, customers are much more likely to snap a photo and show off your shop to their followers, all without you spending a fortune.

Eco-friendly packaging supplies for Etsy sellers

Recycled and recyclable boxes, envelopes, and mailers

For most Etsy sellers, the easiest eco-friendly win is to switch to recycled and recyclable packaging. Look for corrugated boxes, rigid mailers, and kraft envelopes made with a high percentage of post‑consumer recycled content and clearly labeled as curbside recyclable. Many modern shipping boxes now use 90–100% recycled fiber and are certified by third‑party standards like FSC, which helps ensure the paper was sourced and recycled responsibly.

Kraft paper mailers and cardboard envelopes are great for soft goods and flat items. They are lighter than boxes, still protect well, and usually go straight into the paper recycling bin. When possible, choose uncoated or lightly coated paper, since heavy plastic laminates can make recycling harder.

If you do use poly mailers, try to pick ones made from recycled plastic and clearly marked as recyclable through store drop‑off or specialty programs. Some newer poly mailers are made with 100% recycled content and are designed to be recycled again, which keeps plastic in a circular loop instead of sending it to landfill.

Compostable mailers and plant-based packing peanuts

Compostable mailers can be a lovely fit for Etsy shops with a strong eco message, especially for clothing, accessories, and other non‑fragile items. Many are made from plant‑based films or blends of cornstarch and other biopolymers. Before you buy, check whether they are home compostable or industrial compostable only, because most US households do not have access to commercial composting.

Plant‑based packing peanuts are another smart swap. Unlike traditional Styrofoam peanuts, starch‑based versions dissolve in water and break down naturally, while still cushioning fragile goods during shipping. They are often compostable and can go in many organic waste streams, but always confirm the disposal instructions from the manufacturer.

For both compostable mailers and peanuts, avoid mixing them with regular plastic packaging in the same parcel, because that can confuse customers about how to dispose of each material.

Paper tape, washi tape, and plastic-free alternatives

Tape is tiny, but it adds up fast when you ship a lot of Etsy orders. Paper tape made from kraft paper with a plant‑based or water‑activated adhesive is one of the most eco‑friendly options. It bonds strongly to cardboard, is usually plastic‑free, and can be recycled right along with the box.

Water‑activated paper tape creates a very secure seal for heavier boxes, while self‑adhesive kraft tape works well for lighter parcels and is quick to use at a small packing station. Decorative washi tape made from paper can add a cute, branded touch to tissue or small boxes without relying on vinyl or PVC.

You can also reduce tape use by choosing boxes with built‑in locking flaps or mailers with peel‑and‑seal strips. Less tape means less material overall and makes recycling easier for your buyer.

How to tell customers about your sustainable packaging

If you are investing in eco‑friendly packaging supplies, make sure your customers actually know about it. A simple line on your packing slip or thank‑you card like “Shipped in 100% recycled, curbside‑recyclable packaging” helps buyers feel good about their purchase and encourages proper disposal.

You can also:

Add a short “How to recycle or compost this packaging” note on your insert or shop FAQ.
Use small stickers or a stamp that says things like “Plastic‑free packaging” or “Please recycle or reuse this box.”
Mention certifications (for example, “FSC‑certified recycled cardboard”) in your listing descriptions when relevant, so eco‑conscious shoppers can factor that into their decision.

Clear, friendly instructions reduce confusion, cut down on waste, and quietly showcase your Etsy shop’s values without feeling preachy.

Organizing your Etsy packing station so shipping is fast and fun

Must-have tools: scale, measuring tape, printer, dispensers, scissors

A small, well equipped packing station makes shipping feel smooth instead of stressful. The basics are simple, but they save time and prevent costly mistakes.

You will want a digital shipping scale that measures in ounces and pounds so you can enter accurate weights and avoid postage adjustments. A measuring tape or small ruler helps you check box dimensions quickly, especially for larger or oddly shaped orders.

A reliable printer is another must. Many sellers use a basic inkjet or laser printer with full‑page labels, while others prefer a thermal label printer to avoid ink and toner. Either way, keep extra labels and paper nearby so you are not scrambling mid‑packing.

Add a tape dispenser for packing tape, plus a smaller dispenser for washi or branding tape if you use it. A desktop dispenser for shipping labels or fragile stickers is handy too. Round things out with sharp scissors, a box cutter, and a pen or permanent marker for quick notes and address tweaks. With these tools in one spot, you can move from order to ready‑to‑ship in just a few minutes.

Keeping boxes, fillers, and labels within easy reach

A tidy packing station is all about reducing steps. Store your most used box sizes and mailers at arm’s length, and keep rarely used sizes higher up or farther away. Many sellers like a simple shelving unit or cube organizer where each shelf holds one size of box, mailer, or envelope.

Place void fill and cushioning in open bins or baskets so you can grab a handful without wrestling plastic bags. Tissue paper can be stacked flat in a magazine holder or shallow tray. If you use bubble wrap on a roll, mount it on a bar or keep it standing upright so it unrolls easily.

Labels, stickers, and thank‑you cards should live right next to your printer or scale. A small drawer unit or desktop organizer works well: one section for shipping labels, one for logo stickers, one for inserts. Try to set up a left‑to‑right flow: products and inventory on one side, then packing materials, then the scale and printer, and finally a spot for finished parcels. This simple layout keeps you from backtracking and makes batch packing feel almost automatic.

Simple packing checklists to avoid mistakes and missing items

Even careful sellers occasionally forget an item or mix up orders, especially during busy seasons. A short packing checklist keeps your brain calm and your customers happy. It does not need to be fancy. For each order, you can quickly run through:

Correct item and quantity picked
Item inspected (no flaws, dust, or loose threads)
Protective wrap added (tissue, bubble, or padding)
Extras included (thank‑you card, freebie, or care card)
Packing slip or note added (if you use one)
Box or mailer sealed and taped on all seams
Label printed, checked, and firmly attached

You can print this checklist and tape it to the wall, keep a small version on a clipboard, or add it as a reusable template in your order management system. Some sellers like to initial each step on a paper packing slip for large or custom orders.

The goal is not to slow you down, but to create a quick rhythm: pick, protect, personalize, seal, label. Once you get used to following the same steps every time, your packing station feels less like chaos and more like a cheerful little shipping factory you actually enjoy using.

Packaging ideas and supplies by Etsy niche

Packaging ideas for jewelry and tiny delicate items

Jewelry and other tiny pieces feel extra special when they arrive in a little “treasure box.” Start by placing each item in a small box or rigid jewelry mailer with a soft insert like cotton, foam, or a velvet pad so it cannot rattle around. For very delicate chains or earrings, use small grip-seal bags or glassine envelopes inside the box to keep pieces from tangling or scratching.

Wrap the jewelry box in tissue paper, then place it in a padded mailer or small cardboard box with a bit of crinkle paper or shredded kraft around it. If you ship fine or fragile stones, double-boxing with extra padding between the inner and outer box adds a lot of protection for only a little extra cost. A tiny polishing cloth, care card, or branded sticker on the box lid is an easy way to make the unboxing feel luxurious.

Packaging ideas for clothing, accessories, and textiles

Clothing, scarves, tote bags, and other textiles are usually low-risk to ship, so you can keep packaging light and pretty. Fold items neatly, then place them in a clear protective bag or tissue wrap to guard against dust and moisture. Slip that bundle into a poly mailer or lightweight box that fits closely so the garment does not slide around.

If you sell higher-end or giftable pieces, consider branded tissue, a simple belly band, or a reusable fabric bag. For hats, structured bags, or embellished pieces, choose a box tall enough that nothing is crushed, and fill empty space with tissue or kraft paper. Always include a small care card with washing or cleaning instructions so customers know how to look after their new favorite item.

Packaging ideas for prints, stickers, and stationery

Flat paper goods need stiffness and moisture protection more than anything. Slip prints, cards, and sticker sheets into a clear sleeve or glassine bag, then back them with a rigid board such as chipboard or thin foam board. That “sandwich” can go into a rigid or stay-flat mailer clearly marked “Do Not Bend.”

For larger posters or durable prints, you can roll them in tissue and ship in a sturdy mailing tube with padding at both ends so the roll cannot slide. If you sell bundles of stickers or notepads, group them with a paper band or small envelope so customers do not open the mailer to a loose pile of pieces. A branded postcard or mini print tucked in with the order doubles as a thank-you and a sample of your work.

Packaging ideas for candles, ceramics, and other fragile goods

Fragile items like candles in glass, mugs, vases, and small sculptures need snug, shock-absorbing packaging. Wrap each piece individually in tissue and then bubble wrap, paying extra attention to handles, spouts, and edges. Place the wrapped item in a snug inner box with at least an inch of cushioning on all sides using kraft paper, paper-based padding, or biodegradable peanuts so nothing touches the box walls.

For sets, wrap and cushion each item separately, then pack them together in a larger outer box with more padding between pieces. This “box in a box” method greatly reduces breakage for ceramics and glass. Add “Fragile” and “This Side Up” labels, and include a simple care or safety card for candles and breakables. The goal is that if you gently shake the box, you hear no movement at all.

Where to buy affordable packaging supplies for your Etsy shop

Comparing options: Etsy itself, office stores, and wholesale suppliers

You can find good packaging almost anywhere now, but each source has its own sweet spot.

Buying packaging on Etsy is great when you want small quantities, cute designs, or handmade touches. It is perfect for trying different styles of mailers, tissue, or stickers without committing to huge cases. The trade‑off is that the price per piece is usually higher than bulk packaging from traditional suppliers.

Office and big‑box stores are handy when you need something today: a pack of mailers, a roll of tape, or a few boxes. You pay for that convenience, though. Per‑unit prices are often much higher than online bulk options, and the selection of sizes is limited.

Wholesale and online packaging suppliers usually offer the lowest cost per unit, especially once you are shipping regularly. Bulk cartons of mailers or boxes can be 20–30 percent cheaper per piece than small retail packs, and you get consistent quality and sizing for your listings. The downside is higher minimums and shipping fees, so they make the most sense once you know your core product sizes.

A smart path for new Etsy sellers is to mix sources: start with small packs from Etsy or local stores, then move your most‑used sizes to wholesale once you see what actually sells.

Buying in bulk vs. small batches when you’re just starting

Bulk packaging can feel like a bargain, and it often is. Larger cartons of mailer boxes or poly mailers usually come with a noticeable discount per unit, and having plenty of stock on hand means you are not running to the store mid‑launch.

But there are real risks if your Etsy shop is new or still experimenting:

Your branding might change, leaving you with outdated printed boxes or stickers.
Your product line or sizing can shift, and suddenly those 500 perfectly sized boxes do not fit anything you sell.
Big orders tie up cash you might need for materials, ads, or listing fees.

For most beginners, small batches are safer: buy modest packs of 25–100 mailers in 1–3 core sizes, track how quickly you use them, then scale up. Once you see steady monthly order volume and stable product sizes, you can confidently move those specific items to bulk and enjoy the savings.

Hidden costs to watch for (shipping fees, storage space, waste)

The cheapest sticker price on packaging is not always the cheapest overall. A few sneaky costs to watch:

Shipping fees on supplies: Heavy cartons of boxes or bubble mailers can add serious freight charges, especially if they ship from far away or require oversized parcels. Those fees can erase the savings of a slightly lower unit price.
Storage space at home: Cases of boxes, rolls of bubble wrap, and giant bags of peanuts take up closets, garages, and spare rooms. If they get crushed, damp, or dusty, you may end up throwing some away.
Waste from wrong sizes: Buying a lot of one box size before you test it can backfire. Oversized boxes mean you pay to ship extra air and use more filler, and undersized ones may be unusable for your actual products.
Rebranding and product changes: If you rework your logo or switch to new jars, frames, or candle vessels, old custom packaging can become dead stock.

To keep things affordable, calculate your real cost per shipped order: include the packaging price, the shipping fee you paid to get those supplies, and how much of the box or mailer size is actually used. A slightly more expensive but better‑fitting mailer can end up cheaper overall than a bargain box that forces you to ship air and buy extra filler.

Saving on shipping while still using great packaging

How box size and weight affect Etsy shipping costs

Shipping carriers charge you for two things: how heavy your package is and how much space it takes up. On Etsy, that shows up as the weight and dimensions you enter when you buy a label.

For small items, actual weight usually matters most. A tiny box that weighs 2 lb will often cost more than a slightly larger box that weighs 8 oz. Weigh your product plus packaging, then add a small buffer (like 0.5–1 oz) so you do not underpay and risk adjustments.

For bigger parcels, dimensional weight kicks in. Carriers treat a large, mostly empty box as if it weighs more, because it takes up space in the truck. That means an oversized box full of “air” can cost more than a snug, well-fitted one.

To keep Etsy shipping costs down:

Use the smallest box or mailer that safely fits your product and padding.
Avoid deep boxes when a flatter one will do.
Keep heavy items compact so you are not paying extra for unused space.

A quick habit that saves money: after packing, ask yourself, “Could this safely ship in something smaller?” If yes, you are probably overpaying.

Choosing lighter materials that still protect your products

You do not have to choose between “cheap but flimsy” and “heavy but safe.” The sweet spot is lightweight but protective materials.

Good options include:

Poly mailers for soft, non-breakable items like T‑shirts, tote bags, and fabric. Add a thin layer of tissue or a clear bag inside for a nicer unboxing.
Padded mailers with paper or bubble lining for small, semi-fragile items such as enamel pins, keychains, or small accessories.
Single-wall cardboard boxes for most items, reserving thicker double-wall boxes only for very heavy or very fragile products.
Paper-based padding (crinkle paper, kraft paper, honeycomb wrap) instead of layers and layers of heavy cardboard or multiple boxes.

Test your packaging: pack an item, give the box a gentle shake, and drop it from about waist height onto carpet. If nothing moves or breaks, you are likely using enough protection. If it survives easily, try removing a bit of padding or using a smaller box to cut weight.

When to reuse packaging and how to do it neatly and safely

Reusing packaging is great for both your budget and the planet, as long as it still looks intentional and protects the product. Customers are usually happy with reused materials if the package arrives clean, tidy, and clearly labeled.

You can safely reuse:

Sturdy cardboard boxes without tears, dents, or water damage
Clean bubble wrap, air pillows, and paper padding
Padded mailers that are not ripped and can be resealed securely

Before reusing, remove or cover all old labels and barcodes so carriers do not get confused. Use fresh tape on every seam, even if the box was previously taped. If the outside looks a bit worn, add a simple “I reuse packaging to reduce waste” note inside so customers understand the choice.

Skip reusing anything that smells, is dirty, or is too flimsy to survive another trip. A damaged box that leads to a broken item will cost you far more than a new mailer. Reuse thoughtfully, pack neatly, and you will save on shipping while still sending out happy, well-protected orders.