E-commerce retailers can keep the order fulfillment process running smoothly by keeping these packaging and shipping supplies on hand.
Behind every thriving e-commerce business is a highly efficient order fulfillment operation that packages and sends orders out to customers in a timely fashion. To keep business running smoothly, successful vendors need a wide variety of packaging supplies to protect and ship products to their destination.
These are just a few of the essential supplies that e-commerce retailers should keep on hand:
1) Appropriately Sized Corrugated Boxes
When it comes to shipping boxes, one size does not fit all. To save on shipping costs, keep the weight of your packages down by using the smallest possible box for each product. Sturdy corrugated boxes will ensure that your packages arrive safely and without damage to your customers’ doorsteps.
2) Bubble Wrap and Other Cushioning Products
To keep products safe during transit, you’ll need bubble wrap and other cushioning products. Fills and cushions keep fragile products from breaking during transit, making them a must for any e-commerce retailer. That said, don’t overfill your boxes, as the added weight could cause your shipping costs to balloon.
3) Bubble Mailers
When shipping smaller items such as clothing or books, bubble mailers are a cost-effective alternative to larger boxes. For packaging that stands out from the rest of the pack, consider sending your products in a brightly colored or metallic mailer.
4) Packing Tape
Strong packing tape keeps boxes sealed tight, making it a must-have for any e-commerce business. Be sure to order in bulk, as tape can run out more quickly than you might think.
5) Packing List Envelopes
Adhesive packing list envelopes keep essential shipping documents, such as invoices and packing lists, safely secured while packages are being shipped. Just peel off the backing and attach them to a box or bubble mailer. Rest assured your customers will receive their package and relevant shipping documents safe and sound.
6) Printer Paper
It may seem like a no-brainer, but in our increasingly digital world, good old-fashioned printer paper is still an office necessity. E-commerce business owners will find themselves pressing “Print” on everything from customer invoices to packing lists, so keep an ample supply within arm’s reach.
7) Plastic Wrap
When shipping specialty items that need an extra layer of security, consider using plastic wrap to help protect your product during transit. Plastic wrap makes for an especially versatile shipping material, while also being handy for gift baskets or floral bouquets.
8) Shipping Paper
Not every item needs a box or a bubble mailer. Using shipping paper in lieu of bulkier filler will save you time and money for items that might already come in a box or don’t need substantial padding for safe shipping. Simply wrap the item in shipping paper, attach a label, and send!
9) Shipping Labels
Before shipping your packages, make sure that any fragile items are marked as such, so that package handlers and customers know to move them with care. Bold shipping labels can be used for just this purpose — we recommend attaching multiple stickers to different sides of the package.
Running a successful e-commerce business can be complicated, if not overwhelming. With the right packaging and shipping supplies, however, online retailers can keep order fulfillment running like clockwork. To learn more about Paper Mart’s shipping and packaging supplies, visit our website.
Your article has proven useful to me. It’s very informative and you are obviously very knowledgeable in this area. This topic has interesting and solid content.
I like that you suggested using packing tape. I have been needing to send separate packages to my family members. It would be smart to use tape to keep each box secure.