Mailer

Tube Mailers & Poster Tubes — Sizes, Strength, and Packing Guide

Posters, art prints, blueprints, and rolled documents need cylindrical tubes to ship without folding — but the wrong tube (undersized, thin-walled, no end caps) leads to crushed ends or bent contents. Choosing the right tube is straightforward once you know the key variables.

Types of Tube Mailers & Poster Tubes

Standard kraft tube mailers

Single-wall cardboard tubes with plastic end caps — the most common option.

Best for: Posters, art prints, documents up to 24 inches — lightweight and low cost

Heavy-duty triple-wall tubes

Three-layer corrugated tubes with reinforced end caps — significantly more crush-resistant.

Best for: Valuable art prints, architectural drawings, prints over 36 inches

Plastic mailing tubes

Rigid plastic tubes with snap-on caps — waterproof and highly reusable.

Best for: Items that may be stored or shipped repeatedly; outdoor applications

Telescoping tubes

Two-piece tubes where one section slides inside the other for length adjustment.

Best for: Variable-length items; reduces need to stock multiple tube lengths

Sizing Reference

Standard diameters: 2, 3, 4, 6 inches. Length is the primary variable — match tube length to your most common print dimensions. For a standard 24×36 poster, a 3-inch diameter × 37-inch tube works well. Roll with a paper core in the center to prevent tube from collapsing around the contents.

Practical Tips

•Always use end caps — a tube without end caps is crushed at the terminal by carrier handling
•Roll prints around an inner cardboard core (toilet paper roll diameter) to prevent the outer tube from crushing the print's center
•For valuable prints, wrap in acid-free glassine paper before rolling into the tube
•Leave 1–2 inches of empty space at each end of the tube — contents should not touch end caps
•Heavy-duty tubes cost $0.50–1.00 more than standard but prevent the damage claims that cost far more

Frequently asked questions

What size tube do I need for a 24x36 poster?

A 3-inch diameter × 37-inch tube works for a 24×36 poster rolled around a 1-inch inner core. Use a 4-inch diameter tube if the poster is heavy stock (200+ gsm) or if you're including multiple prints.

Can I ship fine art prints in standard poster tubes?

For valuable art, use heavy-duty triple-wall tubes with secure end caps. Wrap the print in acid-free glassine paper before rolling. For originals or prints over $500, add 'Fragile' stickers and consider UPS or FedEx rather than USPS.

How do I prevent tube ends from getting crushed?

Use tubes with friction-fit or snap-on end caps rated for the tube diameter. Leave space inside at each end. For extra protection, apply a layer of bubble wrap over the outside of the tube before labeling.

More Supply Guides

Create a Shipping Label

Free for USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL.

Make a Label Free →