As a shipper, having the right packing supplies on hand is crucial to ensure safe and efficient shipping of your products. Proper packaging not only protects the items during transit but also reduces the risk of damage claims, returns, and associated costs. In this article, we will highlight the essential packing supplies every shipper should have readily available to meet various shipping needs.
1. Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes are indispensable for shipping various items. They come in different sizes, shapes, and strengths to accommodate products of all types and sizes for packing supplies. Ensure you have an adequate supply of cardboard boxes suitable for your shipped items, including small, medium, and large sizes, as well as flat-rate and priority mail boxes provided by postal services like USPS. Cardboard boxes provide a stable structure that protects products from damage during shipping, storage, and handling. They can withstand external forces like impact, pressure, and vibrations, ensuring the safety of the items inside. Cardboard boxes are designed to be stacked easily, facilitating efficient use of storage space and reducing the risk of product damage caused by fallen or unstable boxes.
2. Packing Tape
A reliable supply of packing tape is vital for sealing cartons and other packages securely. Opt for strong, durable packing tape with a pressure-sensitive adhesive that can hold up under different weather conditions and handling. Consider purchasing tapes in various widths and colors to match your brand or specific shipping requirements. Packing tape is essential for packing due to its ability to securely close packages, reinforce their structure, provide anti-theft protection, improve aesthetics, offer branding opportunities, and ensure versatile applications.
3. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap offers excellent protection for fragile and delicate items during transit. This flexible, cushioning material comes in rolls and sheets, allowing you to customize the amount needed for each shipment. Make sure to keep different bubble wrap sizes (small, medium, and large bubbles) on hand to provide appropriate cushioning depending on the fragility of the items being shipped.
4. Foam Padding
Foam padding is ideal for protecting delicate and sensitive products, particularly those susceptible to shock, vibration, or temperature changes. Available in various forms such as polyethylene foam (PE), polystyrene foam (EPS), and polyurethane foam (PU), ensure you maintain a diverse selection of foam padding materials in your inventory to cater to varying product needs.
5. Packing Peanuts
Packing peanuts, made from polystyrene or biodegradable materials, are perfect for filling voids and stabilizing contents within packages.
