8 Shipping Supplies Every Online Seller Should Have
Shipping is a crucial aspect of selling online, and mastering it can enhance customer satisfaction and increase repeat business. Many new sellers feel overwhelmed by the process, but with the right knowledge and supplies, shipping becomes an efficient and streamlined part of the business. This guide will provide essential insights into selecting the best packaging materials, saving money on shipping costs, and ensuring that customers receive their orders in excellent condition.
Why Shipping Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Many online sellers are initially hesitant about shipping due to concerns over costs, logistics, and packaging options. However, shipping is one of the most manageable aspects of an online business when approached with the right strategy. The key to success lies in preparation and understanding the available resources. One of the most valuable tips is to order free shipping boxes from USPS. Many sellers are unaware that USPS offers a variety of free Priority Mail shipping boxes, which can significantly reduce packaging expenses. Having the right shipping supplies readily available ensures that packages are shipped efficiently while keeping costs under control.
Essential Shipping Supplies
1. Poly Mailers
Poly mailers are an essential tool for shipping lightweight items. Any package weighing less than 15.9 ounces should be shipped using a poly mailer to take advantage of First Class shipping rates. These mailers are lightweight, durable, and cost-effective, making them ideal for clothing, accessories, and other soft goods.
Sellers with an eBay store receive a quarterly coupon for eBay-branded shipping supplies, which includes poly mailers. Additionally, a wide range of stylish and professional-looking poly mailers is available on Amazon to enhance branding and customer experience.
2. Thank You Cards
Adding a personalized thank-you card to every order is a simple yet powerful way to build customer loyalty. Including a card with a shop’s name and a message of appreciation creates a positive impression and encourages repeat business. Small details such as these can significantly impact customer retention and satisfaction.
3. Free Shipping Boxes from USPS
USPS provides a variety of free Priority Mail shipping boxes, which can be ordered directly from their website. Utilizing these free resources helps sellers save on packaging costs while ensuring sturdy and reliable packaging. Some of the most commonly used boxes include:
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Padded Flat Rate Mailers – Ideal for shipping small but heavy items such as jeans or electronics accessories.
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Shoe Boxes – Specifically designed for footwear, providing a secure fit and added protection.
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12x12x8 Boxes – A versatile size that accommodates a wide range of items, making it an essential packaging option for online sellers.
4. Printer for Labels
A reliable label printer is a must-have for any reseller. If you’re looking for an affordable option, this budget-friendly label printer on Amazon is a great choice. (And it comes in pink)
For an even more cost-effective approach, you can print labels on regular paper and tape them to packages. No matter which method you choose, investing in a printer that produces clear, high-quality labels ensures your shipping labels stay legible and scannable throughout delivery.
5. Bubble Wrap & Air Pillows
Proper packaging materials such as bubble wrap and air pillows provide crucial protection for fragile items. These materials help prevent damage during transit, reducing the risk of returns and negative customer experiences.
Many sellers save packaging materials from their own incoming shipments, and it is also beneficial to request friends and family to do the same. Sustainable packaging practices, such as reusing air pillows and bubble wrap, contribute to cost savings and environmentally friendly shipping operations.
6. Clear Packing Tape
High-quality packing tape is an essential supply for securing shipments. Using durable, transparent tape ensures that packages remain sealed throughout transit, preventing any potential damage or tampering. Selecting a reliable brand of packing tape enhances packaging security and provides a professional appearance for shipments.
7. Tissue Paper
Wrapping products in tissue paper adds an extra layer of protection and elevates the unboxing experience for customers. This small touch creates a more polished and professional presentation, leaving a lasting impression on buyers. You can even add a “Thank You” sticker to seal it.
8. Shipping Scale
A digital shipping scale is a necessity for any online business. Accurately weighing packages ensures that the correct postage is applied, preventing overpayment on shipping costs. A good shipping scale provides precise weight measurements and helps sellers avoid unexpected postage adjustments or delays. This is the one we recommend, it runs off battery or can be plugged in.
Shipping Tips to Save Money
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Utilize eBay’s shipping label system – eBay offers discounted shipping rates for sellers who purchase labels through their platform. This not only saves money but also simplifies the shipping process.
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First Class Shipping: For packages weighing 15.9 ounces or less, First Class Mail is the most cost-effective option. Items should be shipped in a poly mailer or plain box without Priority Mail branding to qualify for these rates.
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Priority Mail: Packages over 15.9 ounces must be shipped via Priority Mail. Flat Rate and Regional Rate boxes can provide significant savings, particularly for heavy items. Padded Flat Rate Envelopes are particularly useful for shipping heavy clothing items such as jeans, allowing sellers to maximize cost savings.
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eBay Store Perks: eBay store subscribers receive a quarterly coupon for free shipping supplies. Many sellers are unaware of this benefit, and eBay does not always send reminders. The coupon can be accessed by navigating to:
My eBay > Manage My Store > Subscriber Discounts > eBay Shipping Supplies.
The products recommended in this guide are trusted solutions for efficient shipping. Some of the links provided may be affiliate links, meaning a small commission is earned at no additional cost to the buyer. These commissions help support the ongoing effort to provide valuable resources and insights for online sellers. Thank you for supporting.
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