Everyone did lots of online shopping last year because of the pandemic. Even though vaccinations are rolling out, online shopping doesn’t seem to be slowing down. For this reason, online apparel companies need to focus on how to effectively ship their products. There are special considerations for shipping clothing as opposed to other items. Here are some of the best ways to package clothing for shipping, and some pro tips every business owner should know.
Poly Mailers Over Boxes
There’s nothing more thrilling than seeing a bunch of boxes on your front porch when you get home—it’s like Christmas morning. However, these boxes are incredibly wasteful. It’s rare for them to be filled to the brim with items, so there’s no need to use a box that’s going to get thrown in the garbage. Instead, you should use poly mailers for shipping clothing from your store.
Poly mailers lay flat and take up much less room than traditional boxes. Since they’re tinier, they’re less wasteful and better for the environment. Now, you may be thinking that you can’t fit as much in a poly mailer as you could a traditional box—this sentiment couldn’t be further from the truth. PackagingSuppliesByMail.com has bulk shipping envelopes that you can fill to the brim, so you don’t have to worry about not fitting everything in there.A bonus is that it’ll be a more cost-effective way to ship a poly mailer than it’d be to ship a box. It’s the cheapest way to ship because boxes weigh more, and the more something weighs, the more you’ll have to pay.
Layout
The layout of the package is just as important as the packaging material you use. For example, you shouldn’t just throw the clothing into the envelope willy-nilly. This will wrinkle the clothes and take up unnecessary room in the package. Instead, you should put the heavier items, like jeans and sweatshirts, at the bottom of the envelope. Make sure to also neatly fold these items for extra efficiency.
Lighter clothing items should be placed on top, so they’re easier to take out. Customers will appreciate your attention to detail when it comes to layout. After all, there’s nothing worse than when you open a package, and everything comes pouring out. By carefully laying things out from heaviest to lightest, you’ll increase consumer satisfaction.
Security
Another tip for packaging clothing for shipping is to add extra security. Poly mailers have a protective coating that closes the lid when needed. However, it doesn’t hurt to add extra layers of protection, like staples or tape. You may lose customers if packages arrive damaged or marked in any way. Therefore, it’s important to try and protect clothing items as much as possible. PackagingSuppliesByMail.com has secure packaging tape that’s impenetrable. This tape, combined with the strength of the poly mailers, will be protected from any damage and Mother Nature herself. You can also use staples for an extra layer of security. So, you can rest assured that the items will arrive undamaged and that consumers will remain happy.
When Boxes Are Appropriate
There are some instances where poly mailers won’t do the trick. For example, you may need to use a box to ship shoes or large winter coats. If you have to use boxes, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Use protective wrapping (like bubble wrap) on the inside of the package to protect the items from any internal damage.
- Use durable tape on the outside of the box to prevent holes or rips in the material.
- Make sure to put tape and bubble wrap around the corners, as these are the most vulnerable spots in a box.
- Be prepared to pay more in shipping costs because boxes weigh more than poly mailers.
The Importance of Looks
Now that we’ve discussed the best ways to package clothing for shipping, it’s important to mention a quick note on looks. Leaving packages completely blank is a missed branding opportunity. Whether you’re using a poly mailer or a box, you should put your brand’s staple on the material to gain recognition. You shouldn’t ignore the inside of the package, either. Unboxing videos have become incredibly popular on the internet. People find it soothing to watch others carefully unpackage their stuff from a box or poly mailer. If you want to cash in on this trend, include colorful tissue paper or lining to make things look extra special. Customers will appreciate your extra efforts to make the package look nice.
You should also pay attention to the shipping label. Here is where poly mailers shine because you can place the shipping label right on the front of them. Make sure the address and other information is correct before sending out the package and that the slip is legible. Pro Tip: Include a return label in the package in case people are unhappy with their purchase.
Who knew so much went into shipping apparel? Well, the truth is you have to be extra careful when shipping these items, so they don’t arrive damaged at a customer’s doorstep. The first thing you should do is use a poly mailer over a box because they lay flat and take up less room. After all, there’s no reason to spend the extra money shipping a heavy box if you don’t have to.
Layout also matters because it’s frustrating when things go flying out the minute you open a package. Finally, make sure the packaging is secure and use a box when appropriate. You can also use the package as an opportunity to market your brand. Yes, this sounds like a lot of information—but there’s no reason to fear! PackagingSuppliesByMail.com is here to help you with all of your packaging needs. We have bulk shipping envelopes that are excellent for people who need to ship multiple things at once. We also have different types of poly mailers for those who want a little variety. Whatever packaging needs you have, we’re here to address them. We want your customers to be as satisfied as possible.
