It seems easy to get orders out the door, but when you’re buried in rolls of tape, oddly shaped boxes, and a mounting pile of returns, it’s not so easy. Having the correct packing supplies makes things easier, faster, and less annoying, whether you’re running a small online business or sending golf gear to a friend across the country. The good news is you won’t have to deal with crumpled boxes or guess which size suits you best if you have the correct tools.
Let’s discuss the packaging materials that help you ship without stress—starting with the basics and ending with those smart extras you didn’t know you needed.
The Everyday Essential: Parcel Boxes
If there’s one item no shipping station should be without, it’s the classic parcel box. These come in all shapes and sizes, ready to carry everything from shoes and books to electronics. Sturdy, easy to stack, and quick to seal, they’ve become the go-to for most e-commerce businesses and individuals sending out regular packages.
What makes them especially handy is their reliability. When you use a quality box, you don’t have to cross your fingers hoping it won’t cave in during transit. A well-built parcel box holds its shape and protects your items even when stacked or moved around in vans, planes, and warehouses.
For the Awkward and Long Items: Golf Club Boxes
Not everything fits neatly in a cube. If you’ve ever tried shipping a golf club, tripod, fishing rod, or artwork, you know the struggle of finding the right fit. That’s where golf club boxes come in. These tall, narrow boxes are designed to handle long items safely and neatly—without making you bend or cut a regular box to fit.
They’re strong enough to handle the length without buckling and sufficient to avoid wasting space. Some even come with double-walled cardboard for extra strength. If you sell or ship anything long or oddly shaped, having a few of these on hand is a real time-saver.
When Size Matters: Large Letter Boxes
For items that fall between envelope and parcel, large letter boxes are the sweet spot. They’re especially handy for flat, small products that need more protection than a padded envelope can offer. Think jewellery boxes, phone cases, makeup, small electronics, or even books.
Because they meet the size guidelines for large letter postage, you can save on shipping while still keeping your item secure. These boxes often include easy-close tabs and can be assembled quickly, which helps speed up packing during busy order days.
Strong Tape, No Hassle
No box works well without the right tape. But not all tape is made equal. Using low-quality tape that peels, splits, or doesn’t stick wastes time and can damage your brand’s image if your parcel arrives half-open.
Choose a strong adhesive tape that seals with one layer. It’s faster, neater, and more reliable. Bonus points for choosing eco-friendly or branded options—some companies even add their logo or message to packaging tape for a more personal touch.
Cushioning That Keeps Items Safe
Once the outer box is sorted, the inside needs attention too. No one wants their order rattling around during delivery. Here’s where the right packaging materials come in handy. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, air pillows, and kraft paper all play their role in keeping your item from moving around.
A Few Smart Extras
There are a few things that can speed up your shipping process or make it neater. Here are some extras worth having in your packaging station:
- Packing slips or invoice envelopes – Stick these outside your parcel to avoid digging into boxes when returns or deliveries happen.
- Fragile stickers – Quick to add and helpful when your item needs careful handling.
- Box cutters and tape dispensers – Cut down your packing time and save your fingers.
- Having these little tools nearby can make your whole setup more efficient.
One Last Thought
A crushed box or torn packaging sends the wrong message—while a clean, well-packed parcel feels thoughtful and professional.
From strong parcel boxes to well-sized large letter boxes, and smart solutions like golf club boxes, your choice of packaging supplies directly impacts how easy your shipping process feels.
If shipping is part of your routine, even once a week, it’s worth putting a little care into your packaging kit. Your parcels—and your sanity—will thank you.
