How To Measure A Poly Mailer For Shipping?
Poly mailers are one of the most popular and cost-effective packaging options for online retailers, small businesses, and seasonal shippers. They are lightweight, durable, water-resistant, and easy to store, making them ideal for shipping clothing, accessories, soft goods, and non-fragile products. However, the key to ensuring safe and efficient delivery is choosing the right size. Using the wrong size mailer can result in damaged items, increased shipping costs, or packages being returned.This guide explains how to measure a poly mailer correctly, what to consider when selecting your size, and how to choose from standard or extra large shipping bags, especially during busy seasons like the holidays.
Why Poly Mailer Size Matters
Selecting the right mailer size is important for these reasons:
● Protection: A package that is too small may stretch or tear.
● Cost Efficiency: A mailer that is too large can increase dimensional weight and shipping fees.
● Customer Experience: A well-fitted package appears professional and secure.
The right size ensures your item fits snugly without being crushed or overly compressed.
How to Measure a Poly Mailer
To choose a properly fitting poly mailer, measure your product first. You will need three measurements:
1. Length
2. Width
3. Thickness (or depth)
If your product is soft, the thickness can vary once folded. If it is rigid or boxed, measure the actual height.
Step-by-Step Measurement Formula
Follow this simple formula to determine the best mailer size:
● Length of mailer: Item length + item thickness + 1–2 inches
● Width of mailer: Item width + item thickness + 1–2 inches
These extra inches allow for comfortable packing and ensure the adhesive flap seals securely.
Example
If you are shipping a folded hoodie that measures:
● Length: 12 inches
● Width: 10 inches
● Thickness: 3 inches after folding
Recommended mailer size:
● Length: 12 + 3 + 2 = 17 inches
● Width: 10 + 3 + 2 = 15 inches
So you would choose approximately a 15 x 19 or 14.5 x 19 poly mailer.
For a visual breakdown, you can also refer to this guide:
How to Calculate the Size of a Poly Mailer for Shipping https://www.prosupplyglobal.com/blogs/news/how-to-calculate-the-size-of-poly-mailer-for-shipping
Choosing the Right Type of Poly Mailer
Standard Shipping Mailers
These are ideal for lightweight items such as:
● T-shirts and apparel
● Small accessories
● Books
● Paper goods
They are easy to store and seal quickly, making them popular among apparel shops and small online sellers.
Poly Bags for Shipping with Padding
These include bubble-lined or cushioned mailers, perfect when extra protection is needed. Use them for:
● Small electronics
● Jewelry
● Cosmetics
● Small boxed items
They reduce the need for additional packing material.
Extra Large Shipping Bags
During the holiday rush, product bundles, gift sets, blankets, jackets, or multiple clothing items may require extra large shipping bags. These offer more space and flexibility while still remaining lighter than boxes. Their size options make them ideal for larger seasonal shipments.
Bag for Shipping Christmas Gifts
During Christmas, packaging becomes part of the experience. A bag for shipping Christmas orders should be:
● Large enough to hold bulky items such as pajamas, plush toys, or gift bundles
● Strong enough to handle transportation
● Neat and presentable when opened by the recipient
Choosing festive or colorful mailers can also elevate the unboxing experience.
Pro Tips for Selecting Poly Mailer Sizes
Situation | Recommended Mailer Choice |
Shipping a single shirt | 10 x 13 mailer |
Shipping jeans or heavier apparel | 12 x 15.5 mailer |
Shipping hoodies, jackets, or multiple items | 14.5 x 19 or extra large shipping bags |
Sending gift bundles during holidays | Large poly mailers or expandable poly bags |
Tip: Always allow space for sealing and airflow. Do not overstuff the mailer.
Final Thoughts
Measuring your poly mailer correctly ensures lower shipping costs, better product protection, and a more professional unboxing experience. Whether you need standard shipping mailers for everyday orders or poly bags for shipping during seasonal peaks, having the right sizes on hand keeps your operation efficient and customer-friendly.
Shop Reliable, Ready-to-Ship Poly Mailers
For durable, affordable, and fast-shipping poly mailers in all sizes, explore Pro Supply Global. Whether you need standard sizes, padded mailers, or extra large shipping bags, you’ll find high-quality packaging solutions that support both everyday and holiday shipping needs.
Browse the collection at: https://www.prosupplyglobal.com/