Poly Mailers: Types, Sizes & When to Use Them
Poly mailers are plastic shipping bags — cheaper, lighter, and easier to store than cardboard boxes. Ideal for non-fragile, soft goods like apparel and accessories. They save 30-50% vs equivalent boxes in both material cost and dimensional weight pricing.
Types of Poly Mailers
Standard poly mailers
Basic opaque plastic bags with adhesive closure.
Best for: Clothing, soft goods, most ecommerce apparel
Bubble-lined poly mailers
Poly exterior with bubble wrap lining for shock absorption.
Best for: Lightweight electronics, jewelry, books
Tear-proof poly mailers
Heavier-gauge plastic designed to resist tearing.
Best for: Heavier soft goods, multi-item packs
Compostable mailers
Plant-based plastic that decomposes.
Best for: Sustainable brands and eco-conscious DTC
Printed/branded mailers
Custom-printed mailers with your brand.
Best for: Brands that want a visual unboxing moment
Sizing Reference
Size to about 2 inches larger than your folded/flattened item. 9×12 fits a folded t-shirt; 10×13 fits a hoodie; 14.5×19 fits a jacket.
Practical Tips
- •2.5 mil thickness is standard for most ecommerce. 3+ mil for heavy or multi-item shipments
- •Sizes commonly: 6×9, 9×12, 10×13, 12×15.5, 14.5×19, 19×24
- •Avoid poly mailers for fragile items — they provide zero protection against drops
- •Peel-and-seal closure is standard — tape sometimes doesn't stick well to plastic
- •Bulk orders from Amazon Business, Uline, or PackagingBrahma offer best per-unit pricing
Frequently asked questions
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