Top Packaging Supplies Every E-commerce Business Needs

In today’s fast-paced world of online shopping, packaging plays a bigger role than just wrapping products. It affects your brand image, protects your items, and influences your customer's unboxing experience. Whether you're just starting or already running an established e-commerce store, choosing the right packaging supplies can make a big difference in your business.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top packaging materials and tools every e-commerce business should consider using. From shipping boxes to protective fillers, we’ll walk you through everything you need to ship smart and build trust with your customers.

1. Corrugated Shipping Boxes

Corrugated boxes are the most popular packaging supply in e-commerce. These sturdy cardboard boxes are designed to protect products during transit. Available in different sizes and thicknesses, they’re ideal for shipping everything from clothes to electronics.

Why it matters:

• Strong and durable
• Lightweight but protective
• Easy to brand with custom printing

Tip: Always keep multiple sizes on hand to avoid oversized packaging and reduce shipping costs.

2. Padded Mailers and Envelopes

For smaller or flat items like books, documents, and jewelry, padded mailers are a smart alternative to boxes. These envelopes often come with bubble lining or foam padding inside, offering extra protection without the bulk.

Benefits:

• Saves space and money
• Offers protection for non-fragile items
• Easy to seal and ship quickly

Choose poly mailers for water resistance and bubble mailers for added cushioning.

3. Packing Tape

Every package needs secure sealing, and packing tape is a must-have. Good-quality tape ensures your box stays closed throughout its journey.

Popular options include:

• Clear plastic tape
• Reinforced paper tape (also known as water-activated tape)
• Printed tape for branding

Make sure your tape dispenser is easy to use and doesn’t waste time or tape during busy packing sessions.

4. Void Fillers

Void fillers help cushion the inside of your packages and stop items from shifting during shipping. This is especially important for fragile or breakable products.

Common types of void fillers:

• Kraft paper
• Air pillows
• Bubble wrap
• Foam inserts
• Packing peanuts (biodegradable options available)

Avoid leaving empty space in boxes. Not only does it increase the risk of damage, but it can also give customers a poor impression of your packaging.

5. Labels and Shipping Stickers

Clear labeling is essential for smooth delivery. Shipping labels should include customer addresses, tracking codes, and barcode scans.

Must-have labels include:

• Shipping address labels
• Fragile or “Handle with Care” stickers
• Return address labels
• Custom branded stickers

Consider investing in a label printer if you ship regularly. It saves time and improves label quality.

6. Custom Packaging for Branding

Standard packaging works fine, but custom packaging helps your brand stand out. Whether it’s printed boxes, logo tape, or branded tissue paper, custom packaging turns shipping into a marketing tool.

Why it works:

• Builds brand recognition
• Improves customer experience
• Encourages social sharing (great for organic marketing)

If your budget is tight, start small with stickers or branded thank-you cards.

7. Tissue Paper and Inner Wraps

Tissue paper not only protects items but also adds a touch of class. It’s commonly used to wrap clothing, beauty products, or luxury goods inside the box.

Perks of using tissue paper:

• Lightweight and decorative
• Adds a premium feel
• Can be custom printed with your logo or pattern

For extra care, wrap items before placing them inside boxes with fillers.

8. Inserts and Thank-You Cards

Customers appreciate the personal touch. Adding printed inserts like thank-you cards, return policies, or discount coupons builds loyalty and keeps them coming back.

What you can include:

• Handwritten thank-you notes
• Instructions or product care tips
• QR codes linking to your store or social media
• Offers for future purchases

These small details turn buyers into repeat customers.

9. Stretch Wrap and Plastic Film

For businesses that ship large or multiple boxes at once, stretch wrap helps secure items on pallets or bundles.

Useful for:

• Stabilizing boxes during transport
• Protecting from dirt or moisture
• Keeping bulk items organized

You may not need it when just starting, but it becomes essential as your volume grows.

10. Eco-Friendly Packaging Supplies

More customers are paying attention to sustainability. Eco-friendly packaging is no longer a bonus — it’s becoming an expectation.

Eco-conscious packaging options include:

• Recycled cardboard boxes
• Compostable mailers
• Biodegradable packing peanuts
• Paper-based tape instead of plastic
• Minimalist packaging to reduce waste

Switching to eco-friendly packaging helps the environment and can also attract more customers who value sustainability.

11. Return Packaging

Sometimes customers want to return items, and offering simple return solutions makes the process easier for both sides.

Include:

• Resealable mailers or return-ready boxes
• Return instructions or prepaid labels
• Clear policy printed on inserts or your website

Convenient returns build trust and improve your customer service reputation.

12. Scales and Measuring Tools

Accurate weight and size measurements help avoid shipping delays and overcharges. A digital shipping scale and a ruler or measuring tape are essential for accurate postage.

Why you need it:

• Ensures correct postage and labeling
• Helps you estimate shipping costs
• Reduces returns due to incorrect shipping information

Small investment, big payoff in the long run.

Final Thoughts

The right packaging supplies are more than just tools they’re part of your e-commerce strategy. They help protect your products, strengthen your brand, and give your customers a positive experience from the moment they receive their order.

Start with the basics like sturdy boxes, tape, and labels. As your business grows, you can explore custom branding, eco-friendly materials, and efficient tools to speed up your process.

Remember, packaging is the first physical touchpoint between you and your customers. Make it count.