The manner in which a package is packaged can determine whether or not the package arrives at its destination intact. There are various types of packaging supplies, but the first packaging decision you must make after deciding which carrier you’re going to use (USPS, UPS, FedEx) is what type of outer packaging your package needs to be in. Each type of outer packaging is better suited to certain purposes than others. 

Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated boxes, commonly referred to as cardboard boxes, are the most popular type of packaging material that people use to ship their packages. They are popular for numerous reasons, some of which are because they provide superior protection against damage, are relatively inexpensive, provide stackability and are relatively lightweight. When using corrugated boxes to ship items, it is best to always use a new box. People who plan on re-using a box should ensure that it is in excellent condition before proceeding. An excellent box has no punctures or tears and all its flaps are intact. Also, determine the strength of the box required. For instance, some heavy or bulky items might require a double-walled box rather than single-wall one. 

Mailing Boxes

Mailing boxes are similar to corrugated boxes in that they are box constructed of cardboard. However, the manner in which mailing boxes are assembled is different from that of corrugated boxes. Mailing boxes fold up and lock themselves shut much like a pizza box instead of having the flaps that fold in the middle and have to be taped shut like corrugated boxes. Mailing boxes are ideal for smaller items or ones that are relatively flat like books. These types of boxes are particularly strong because of their assembly. 

Bubble Mailers and Padded Envelopes

Bubble mailers and padded envelopes are ideal for shipping items that need some degree of cushioning but aren’t extremely fragile. Types of items that are commonly shipped in bubble mailers and padded envelopes include some jewelry, DVDs, CDs. Although bubble mailers and padded envelopes offer great cushioning strength, they offer no stacking strength. Therefore, items that could be crushed and damaged might still need to be packaged in a mailing box or corrugated mailer. 

Mailing Tubes

Mailing tubes are generally used to ship long, narrow items, such as poster, artwork, blueprints, diplomas, calendars and wedding invitations. There are different types of mailing tubes. Tubes with end caps are the most popular types of tubes. They are constructed of cardboard with end caps that seal each end to keep the contents from falling out. Snap seal tubes are extremely similar to tubes with end caps, except that their end caps are already pre-positioned so that they simply snap shut onto the tubes. Telescoping tubes, on the other hand, come with metal end caps and two telescoping pieces that can be adjusted to accommodate for different size items.

The type of packaging material needed to ship an item depends upon numerous factors. Most packaging solutions can be purchased at economically-friendly prices, though.