It has happened to most people. They have received a package from an online store and have thought, ‘Did it really need all that packaging?’ In almost all of these cases, it is to ensure that the items being shipped remain safe, which, if you are a small, independent company such as a maker of pots on Etsy, you will want to make sure that all the items that you make are cared for as they are shipped. After all, you have put a lot of hard work into them!
So, when it comes to wrapping your items safely, what are some of the best options that are available? This article will guide you through, so you can see which options may be the best to invest in for your shipping.
Shrink Wrap
Most people associate shrink wrap with wrapping sandwiches at a picnic. However, if you are sending small, breakable items, then it can be worth wrapping them in shrink wrap It is important to note that, when it comes to shrink wrap for packaging, it needs to be high quality. Otherwise, it may rip in transit, potentially damaging your items.
Bubble Wrap
People around the world were devastated when they found out that a form of bubble wrap had been created that doesn’t pop when you squeeze the blisters. However, even with or without poppable blisters, bubble wrap is a solid choice when it comes to packaging materials, as it cushions items that are breakable and also allows for a bit of bunce. If the box is too big, the item may bounce, and it needs some cushioning. There are biodegradable versions of bubble wrap, which are ideal if you want to showcase your commitment to the planet.
Packing Peanuts
Most people have opened a large box and found it full of packing peanuts. These are another option that is great if your item and your box are not a match when it comes to sizing, but they can also be a bit messy, and they have raised environmental concerns from conservationists. Again, there is a biodegradable option for them, which is peanuts made from compressed potato starch, which dissolves when placed in water. So, if you want to emphasize your company’s commitment to being low waste, try using that.
Recyclable Materials
OK, so using recyclable materials is not a new idea. However, with the emphasis on going plastic free in 2023 becoming more prevalent, you may want to focus your attention on minimizing the amount of plastic you use in your packaging for products. If you need specialist packaging, you can check to see if the company works with innovative materials from polychemistry.com to reduce environmental concerns even if a polymer material is required. Of course, there are also packing peanuts made from starch, but it can also extend to the wrapping for the products too. For instance, a brown paper wrap will be easily recycled, as well as a biodegradable sellotape. If you are able to, it may also be worth investing in some brown string to wrap your packages. Just make sure that the items are secure and will not break.
