Can I use poly mailers for fragile items?
Why Poly Mailers Are Risky for Fragile Items
Poly mailers are lightweight and cheap, but they provide minimal protection. They can be crushed, torn, or punctured during transit, and they don't absorb shock. Fragile items like glass, ceramics, or electronics can easily break if shipped in a poly mailer alone.
Even if you wrap the item in bubble wrap, the lack of a rigid outer box means it can still be bent or compressed. For any item that can break, use a corrugated box with at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides.
When Poly Mailers Are Acceptable
Poly mailers are fine for non-fragile, soft items: clothing, fabric, plush toys, and some accessories. They are also useful as an inner packaging for items that are already in a box, to protect against moisture and dirt.
If you must use a poly mailer for a semi-fragile item, consider adding a rigid insert like a cardboard backing, but this is not a substitute for a proper box. Always test your packaging by dropping it from waist height to see if the item survives.
- Use poly mailers for soft goods only.
- Fragile items require a box and cushioning.
- Bubble wrap alone in a poly mailer is not enough.
- Consider double-boxing for very fragile items.
- Test packaging with a drop test.
Common mistakes
- Assuming bubble wrap inside a poly mailer is sufficient for glass or ceramics.
- Using poly mailers for items with sharp edges that can puncture the mailer.
- Not accounting for weather; poly mailers offer no water resistance.