Choosing Packing Material

You’re almost ready to send your package. You purchased your label, and you even have the box to ship it in. You only have one task to complete before you’re set–picking out the packing material.

1. Packing Peanuts

While this option seems like it’s the ideal solution because it’s cheap and effective, this isn’t the only solution. Packing peanuts are sloppy for the person on the receiving end. Not to mention, some packing peanuts aren’t eco-friendly. However, if you search, you’re able to find packing peanuts that are biodegradable or recyclable. Keep in mind though, if you have anything that shouldn’t move or is fragile, this isn’t the best option.

2. Air Pillows

If you have fragile items to ship, you may want to wrap them with an air pillow. This type of packaging is basically a bag filled up with air. You can wrap it around fragile items, so they don’t move. You may even package more than one item in the same box using air pillows. They’re much easier to clean up than foam or packing peanuts. Air pillows are able to be recycled with the rest of your plastics. Air pillows, also known as bubble pouches, work well on all sized packages. Keep in mind, the pillows take up a lot of space, and you may need to fill them with air.

3. Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is fun packaging for your receipt. You’re able to wrap fragile items in it to keep them protected. It’s ideal if you’re shipping multiple items because you can wrap each piece separately. Bubble wrap is a recyclable option that you can place with the rest of your plastic recyclables. Bubble wrap works well on packages of all sizes. It’s the only option you can use when you ship in an envelope due to size limitations. You may purchase small, medium or large bubbles.