Packaging Guides
Poly Mailers vs Boxes: Which Is Better for E-Commerce Shipping? (2026)
Cubit Packaging Team
May 12, 2026
4 min read
Poly Mailers vs Boxes: Which Should You Ship In?
The choice between poly mailers and boxes is the most impactful packaging decision for e-commerce brands. It affects shipping cost, product protection, brand perception, sustainability, and returns. Here's the complete comparison.
Quick answer: Use poly mailers for soft goods (clothing, accessories, documents) to save $3–4 per shipment. Use boxes for fragile items, heavy products, and premium unboxing experiences.
Cost Comparison
Per-Unit Packaging Cost
| Package | Cost at 1,000 | Cost at 5,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 10×13" poly mailer (2.5 mil, printed) | $0.18–$0.25 | $0.10–$0.18 |
| 10×8×4" mailer box (printed) | $0.65–$1.20 | $0.45–$0.80 |
| Savings with poly | $0.47–$0.95/unit | $0.35–$0.62/unit |
Shipping Cost
| Factor | Poly Mailer | Box |
|---|---|---|
| Package weight | 1–2 oz | 6–12 oz |
| DIM weight factor | None (flat) | 139+ cubic inches |
| USPS First Class (8 oz) | $3.50–$5.00 | $6.50–$9.00 |
| UPS Ground (1 lb) | $7.00–$9.00 | $9.00–$13.00 |
| Savings per shipment | — | $2.00–$4.00 |
Total Cost at Scale
| Volume | Poly (pkg + ship) | Box (pkg + ship) | Monthly Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500/mo | $2,100 | $3,825 | $1,725 |
| 2,000/mo | $7,600 | $14,400 | $6,800 |
| 10,000/mo | $33,000 | $68,000 | $35,000 |
Protection Comparison
| Factor | Poly Mailer | Box |
|---|---|---|
| Water resistance | ★★★★★ (waterproof) | ★★☆☆☆ (absorbs water) |
| Crush resistance | ★☆☆☆☆ (none) | ★★★★★ (rigid structure) |
| Puncture resistance | ★★★☆☆ (2.5+ mil) | ★★★★★ (corrugated fluting) |
| Drop protection | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Theft deterrent | ★★☆☆☆ (contents visible by shape) | ★★★★☆ (contents hidden) |
When Poly Mailers Are Sufficient
- ✅ Clothing and apparel (t-shirts, dresses, pants)
- ✅ Accessories (scarves, hats, belts)
- ✅ Documents and prints
- ✅ Soft goods (towels, fabric)
- ✅ Non-fragile items under 3 lbs
When You Need a Box
- ✅ Glass or ceramic products
- ✅ Electronics and devices
- ✅ Food and beverages
- ✅ Multiple heavy items
- ✅ Products requiring structural protection
- ✅ Premium unboxing experience (subscription boxes, gifts)
Brand Experience
| Factor | Poly Mailer | Box |
|---|---|---|
| Unboxing experience | ★★☆☆☆ Basic — tear open | ★★★★★ Premium — reveal moment |
| Print area | Both sides, full coverage | 6 panels, interior printing |
| Shelf/social media appeal | Low — flat, disposable | High — Instagram-worthy |
| Perceived value | Standard | Premium |
The hybrid approach: Many brands ship everyday orders in poly mailers but use branded boxes for gift orders, subscriptions, and first-time customers.
Sustainability
| Factor | Poly Mailer | Box |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic (LDPE #4) | Paper/cardboard |
| Recyclable? | ⚠️ Store drop-off only | ✅ Curbside recycling |
| Recycled options | 50-100% PCR available | 100% recycled common |
| Compostable options | PBAT/PLA available | Inherently biodegradable |
| Carbon footprint | Lower (lighter weight) | Higher (heavier, more material) |
Decision Framework
Choose poly mailers when:
- Product is soft, flexible, non-fragile
- Shipping cost reduction is a priority
- High order volume (savings compound)
- Returns are common (dual-peel makes returns easy)
Choose boxes when:
- Product needs structural protection
- Unboxing experience drives brand loyalty
- Product is heavy, fragile, or irregularly shaped
- You sell premium/luxury products
Need help choosing? Get a free quote for both options or ask our AI consultant. Browse our poly mailer collection or mailer boxes.