When to Use a Poly Mailer vs. a Bubble Mailer

man packing bubble envelopes for shipping

A Deep Dive Into Mailing Bags and Their Proper Applications

Although corrugated boxes provide excellent support and protection for items of all shapes and sizes, they’re not the be-all and end-all of the packaging world. Mailing bags are ideal solutions for e-commerce businesses shipping smaller, less fragile products.

Poly mailer bags and bubble mailers are two of the most popular options, each with their own set of advantages. But how do you know which one is best for your shipping needs? Choosing the right packaging keeps shipping costs as low as possible and ensures items arrive safely to your customer’s doorstep.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at poly mailers versus bubble mailers and give you a better idea of when to use which. Plus, we’ll introduce you to Alta-Pak’s comprehensive selection of mailing bags at wholesale prices, so you can save money without sacrificing quality.

Understanding the Basics: What are Poly Mailer Bags and Bubble Mailers?

Poly mailer bags and bubble mailers are staple packaging supplies that come in handy for a wide range of use cases. Both options are incredibly lightweight, and their thin yet durable designs take up less space on carrier vehicles, meaning you spend less on shipping.

Poly mailer bags are flexible plastic envelopes used for non-fragile items like clothing and accessories. Because the polyethylene shell is stretchable by nature, there’s less worry about tears or punctures. These mailing bags also provide moisture resistance and tamper-evident features, like a self-sealing foldover lip.

Bubble mailers are padded kraft paper envelopes with a layer of bubble wrap inside. The bubbles provide cushioning for more delicate small goods, like electronics, cosmetics, and books. Like their poly counterparts, bubble mailers generally have a lip-and-tape closure to ensure a secure and tight seal.

Poly Mailer vs. Bubble Mailer: Choosing the Right Solution

When looking at poly mailers versus bubble mailers for your shipping operation, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about the type of materials you’re shipping. Poly mailer bagsare perfect for non-fragile items, while bubble mailers’ padded interiors provide an extra layer of protection.

It’s also a good idea to evaluate the size and weight of your items. Thanks to their flexibility, poly mailers often accommodate more unusually shaped products. Additionally, take your budget into account. If your items can withstand rougher shipping and handling, poly mailer bags are typically more cost-effective and a great choice for those looking to cut back on shipping costs.

Ultimately, the decision between a poly mailer versus a bubble mailer depends on your specific needs. By reflecting on what you’re mailing, the size of the contents, and how much you want to spend, you can choose the right fit for you and your business.

Is It Worth Having Both Poly Mailer Bags and Bubble Mailers?

If you ship a variety of goods, you may benefit from more than one type of mailing bag . Poly and bubble mailers serve unique purposes and aren’t intended to be used interchangeably. When you have both on hand, you ensure you use the proper envelope no matter what’s leaving your facility.

That said, poly mailer bags tend to be the most versatile out of the two. Bubble mailers help more fragile items arrive safely, but you always have the option to fill a poly bag with packing peanuts or cover products in bubble wrap if you need to.

Get More Mailing Bags for Less at Alta-Pak

Shopping high-quality shipping supplies at an affordable price hasn’t always been easy – until now. Alta-Pak’s mailing bags are constructed from top-notch materials and sold at wholesale prices, so you can save money while enjoying peace of mind that your products are well-protected during transit.

We offer multiple sizes and styles of mailing bags to accommodate different shipping needs, meaning that whether you’re sending non-fragile or semi-fragile goods, we have the perfect solution for you. You don’t have to settle for subpar packaging materials; just choose Alta-Pak’s for reliable and cost-effective solutions.

When you place an order with us, you can expect fast, friendly service from our team. Most orders are filled within one business day and can be picked up from our physical location in Kansas City, delivered by a truck from our private fleet for a nominal fee, or shipped anywhere in the continental United States. Keep in mind that if you opt for shipping, standard mailing rates apply.

Interested in a large quantity of poly mailer bags or bubble mailers? Take advantage of our special bulk pricing and get more of your favorite supplies for less.

For more information about our mailing bags or to request a quote, call (816) 453-7204 or send us a message online.