Poly mailers are thin, plastic, lightweight, and durable envelopes that are mainly used to enable shipping of small and medium sized packages. They have thenceforth been regularly used within the field of e-commerce because of their low cost, strength and diverse applications.

Indeed, in this net-driven age of commerce, time sensitive reliable delivery is arguably imperative. Biodegradable poly mailers are the best, cheapest and easily accessible for all people. Because of that there are differences in their individual types of poly mailers and their uses in shipping, one can decide on what to order for shipping.

Why Poly Mailers Are the Future of Packaging

The use of poly mailers is gradually outsoaring other types of methods of storing products in most packaging industries. They provide the highest level of protection and hence guarantee that the items placed inside them will get to the required location safely. They tend to be very light in weight and hence reduces the cost for shipping.

Furthermore, Poly mailers are also incredibly accommodating in that a large variety of goods may be contained within these mailers. Such products include outfits, electronics, books, beauty products among many others. Further, one can find mailers that are environment friendly poly mailers due to the current demand in sustainable packaging materials.

Types of Poly Mailers

Poly mailers are made with different types as a result of market requirements and here are the most popular ones about them:

Layflat Poly Mailers 

Taking lay flat poly mailers for instance, these are the most common mailers because they are simply Zip lock bags without the bubble. Most lay flat poly bags are white or gray in color and make a low cost option for mid weight items. They are meant for clothing items, shoes and other items that can bear a little impact during shipping.

Compostable Poly Mailers 

These types of mailers are composed of materials that are organic in nature and thus it is said that they are environmental friendly. Such solutions enable the companies to decrease the gazexforms policy waste instead of using the traditional poly mailers.

Bubble Mailers

Padded bubble mailers, includes bubble wrap inside the envelope for a little or a lot of protection during shipping. A little bit higher price of these mailers is worth the trouble when transporting those sensitive items, in terms of value even jewelry, electronics and soft or delicate clothing.

Clearview Poly Mailers 

These mailers come with one side clear and product visibility is excellent when delivered. Depending on the kind of order, that type of literature can be sent. Magazines, books advertising publications. It is beneficial because the customer is able to look at the item they ordered as soon as it is shipped.

Tyvek Poly Mailers

Tyvek poly mailers are also more resistant to water damage as they are made of tear resistant Tyvek materials rather than simple poly mailers. They can be used to mail important documents and photographs and other delicate material.

Recycled Poly Mailers

These mailers are manufactured with either paper or plastic that contain 50% to 100% recycled materials. These mailers are ideal for environmental friendly brands that seek to reduce the negative impact on the environment without compromising on the protective nature of the packaging.

Expansion Poly Mailers

Bulky expansion poly mailers are great for packing bulkier items and are strong and resistant to tempering abuse. They are constructed with tear resistible materials and padded at the base, thus perfect for shipping jackets, hooded garments and similar large products.

Biodegradable Poly Mailers

Biodegradable poly mailers do not contain polyethylene instead these mailers are derived from plants. This makes them safe for the environment since they can be composted either at home or commercially and are a great pick for green brands.

Kraft Mailers

Even if they are not, indeed, poly mailers, they reinforce the fact that recycled craft mailers are a much healthy option in comparison to plastic mailers. When used, such mailers are 100% compostable and hence more suitable for environmentally friendly businesses.

Best Uses for Poly Mailers

Poly mailers can be used for shipping reasonably light and less delicate goods. Such mailers include self-seal strip adhesive for securely closing them in order to secure the products while shipping them. Some of the most common these days items sent by poly mailers are:

• Clothes
• Britannica children's toys
• Health and cosmetics (housed in strong packaging)
• Books and printing materials

Prior to settling on the poly mailers, it is important to consider the sensitivity of the item. If it’s a fragile and breakable item, then it would be best to choose a more protective packing material.

Shipping with USPS

Poly mailers are also common with USPS and packages using these materials can be sent using different methods as follows: 

• USPS First Class Mail - Appropriate for parcels not exceeding 13 oz, best on the economical side when sending lightweight materials.
•  USPS Priority Mail - Packages are destined within a maximum of 70 lbs and are forwarded in 1-3 business days. 
• USPS Media Mail - This is a cheap way of transporting books & other media, however not all items will qualify for this postage type.

Sizing Considerations

Selecting the proper dimensions for poly mailers has a significant impact on the entire mail delivery process. Other dimensions common for several items include the following:

• T-shirt: 23 cm x 30 cm
• Two to three shirts: 30 cm x 40 cm
• Jeans: 30x 40 cm or 36 x 48 cm
• Sweater: 30 x 40 cm or 36 x 48 cm
• Socks: 15 cm x 23 cm

This ensures that there is no excess space whereby the items can move and sustain damages while being transported.

Pros and Cons of Using Poly Mailers

Advantages

• Cost Effective: Compared to cardboard boxes, most poly mailers are rather inexpensive and thus reduce the cost of shipping.
• The Strength and Safety: Even though poly mailer cost less than cardboard boxes, there are different types of poly mailers such as bubble mailers and Tyvek that would offer the necessary protection to the items.
• Marketing: Businesses can easily use poly mailers in its marketing strategies by enhancing their appeal with use of colors and imprinted logos.
• Eco caregivers friendly: They are designed with taping strips making it possible for poly mailers to be used again, a feature beloved by green consumers.

Disadvantages

• Limitations for Fragile Items: As one of the most common packaging materials, poly mailers are not appropriate in sending anything extremely fragile, say glass items. You require more hard copy coverings.
• Not Ideal for Multiple Items: They do not work well when packaging multiple items for dispatch unless flat soft objects are used for importation distributization.

Risk of Damage: If not filled properly, the poly mailers are likely to break or tear on processing

Conclusion

Poly mailers offer a versatile and cost-effective solution for businesses engaged in e-commerce. With various types available to suit different shipping needs, they present an excellent alternative to traditional cardboard packaging. By considering the pros and cons, businesses can make informed decisions about using poly mailers for their shipping requirements, especially with an increasing focus on sustainability in packaging choices.

FAQ Section

What is a poly mailer made of?

Poly mailers are typically made from moisture-resistant polyethylene, a type of plastic that is lightweight and durable.

Are poly mailers eco-friendly?

Some poly mailers are made from recycled materials or designed to be compostable and biodegradable, making them more environmentally friendly options compared to traditional plastic mailers.

Can I use poly mailers for fragile items?

Poly mailers are not recommended for fragile items like glass or delicate electronics. Instead, opt for padded mailers or more robust packaging solutions to ensure safe shipping.