What is the difference between mailer boxes and shipping boxes?
Shipping boxes and mailer boxes are common packaging types used in e-commerce and shipping. Although they both serve the same purpose, they differ in terms of design, purpose, and functionality. We will explore these differences in greater detail.
1. Purpose and Use:
Mailer Boxes:
Mailer boxes, also known as mailer cartons or folding carton mailers, are primarily designed for packaging smaller, lighter items such as clothing, cosmetics, books, and small electronics, as well as smaller and lighter items. As a result of their limited strength and capacity, mailer boxes are not typically used to package heavy or bulky items. They are frequently used for retail packaging and direct-to-customer shipping.
Shipping Boxes:
However, shipping boxes can accommodate a wide range of products, both light and heavy. They are more versatile and can accommodate various shapes and sizes. In bulk, shipping boxes can be used to transport goods from a manufacturer to a retailer, between distribution centers, or to residential customers.
2. Construction:
Mailer Boxes:
Materials like corrugated cardboard, paperboard, or cardstock are typically used for mailer boxes. They are designed to be compact and easy to assemble. Mailer boxes are often sealed with self-locking tabs or adhesive strips, so no additional tape or sealant is needed.
Shipping Boxes:
Boxes used for shipping are typically made of heavier, sturdier materials like corrugated cardboard. With this added strength, shipping boxes can withstand stacking, handling, and potential impacts during transport. To ensure that their contents are secure, tape or other forms of external sealing are often required.
3. Design and Customization:
Mailer Boxes:
Marketing and branding are common uses for mailer boxes. Customers can easily customize them with printed graphics, logos, and product information, making them the perfect choice for creating a memorable unboxing experience. There are many styles and shapes of mailer boxes, including squares, rectangles, and custom die-cuts.
Shipping Boxes:
Although shipping boxes can be personalized with graphic prints, they are primarily functional and durable. There are usually only labels or stickers for addressing and handling instructions, and they are usually brown or white. Standard shipping boxes are designed to hold and protect products during transit.
4. Size and Capacity:
Mailer Boxes:
Mailer boxes are generally smaller than shipping boxes. They are designed to fit a single product or small assortment of items. Due to their limited interior space, these boxes are only suitable for small or bulky products.
Shipping Boxes:
Shipping boxes come in a wide range of sizes and can accommodate a variety of product dimensions. Whether it's small boxes for single items or large boxes for multiple products, shipping boxes are versatile and are able to handle many products.
5. Shipping Requirements:
Mailer Boxes:
A mailer box is typically used to ship lightweight parcels using postal or courier services. As they may offer less cushioning and structural integrity than shipping boxes, they are best suited for items that don't require excessive protection during transit.
Shipping Boxes:
With shipping in mind, shipping boxes provide better protection for fragile and sensitive products. They can handle rough handling, stacking, and potential impacts, making them ideal for long-distance transport.
6. Cost:
Mailer Boxes:
The lightweight construction and compact size of mailer boxes help businesses reduce shipping costs, especially when sending products directly to customers.
Shipping Boxes:
Boxes with a stronger construction and larger size may cost more, but their increased protection may prevent damage and lower the chances of returns.
7. Environmental Considerations:
Mailer Boxes:
Make your mailer boxes eco-friendly by using recyclable or sustainable materials and reducing waste. Additionally, their smaller size and weight may contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions during shipping.
Shipping Boxes:
When shipping boxes are made from recycled and recyclable materials, they are also environmentally friendly. However, their larger size and weight can result in higher emissions from transportation.
Conclusion:
Coast 2 Coast Packaging provides you with spectacular packaging designs and easy-to-use shipping boxes. Mailer boxes and shipping boxes have different purposes, designs, and functions. Shipping boxes are versatile and durable, suitable for a wide range of products and transportation needs, while mailer boxes are ideal for small, lightweight items with a focus on branding and aesthetics. Cost considerations, branding goals, and environmental considerations influence the choice between the two. Packaging and shipping needs often require a combination of both types of boxes.