Postal Boxes

Postal boxes are a form of single-trip packaging used for shipping products, goods or orders from your business to your customers. Usually manufactured from corrugated cardboard, postal boxes are available in various styles and sizes and offer several custom options.

Essentially nothing. Postage boxes, mailing boxes, shipping boxes and even postal packaging are all interchangeable terms used for the same product type. However, due to the number of options (sizes, styles, materials), it is possible to create many variations within this broad categorisation.

Printing your postal boxes is surprisingly cost-effective. Printing can add simple company logos and branding, handling instructions and health and safety information. You can even wow your customers with full-colour graphics only revealed upon opening the package (creating a unique unboxing experience).

The grade of cardboard used to manufacture postal boxes can (and should) vary depending on the type and weight of the products you are shipping. One advantage of specifying bespoke postage boxes is that it is possible to match the material to the intended application. For example, lightweight products like clothing may only require a single wall material, whereas heavier items may need double wall boxes.

BDC stands for “Bulk Distribution Carton”, whilst BDCM means “Bulk Distribution Carton Metric”. These are effectively a range of standard-sized boxes used for shipping items. Traditionally used in mail order, catalogue, fashion and retail applications, they usually include a printed area allowing the contents to be marked using a pen or label.

PIP stands for “pricing in proportion”. This terminology relates to the pricing structure Royal Mail introduced in 2013. Postal boxes of certain sizes qualify for specific pricing bands. As a result, it is possible to specify PIP mailing boxes that meet the large letter, small parcel, medium parcel or large parcel requirements.

Whether you should use stock or bespoke postal boxes depends on various factors. Your application, the volume of parcels you send, and the types of products you ship are just a few factors. As a rough rule of thumb, stock boxes are usually best if you only use low volumes or must adhere to specific industry guidelines or sizes. Custom packaging usually provides better performance, is frequently cheaper in the long run, and can offer numerous other benefits.

Any postal boxes sourced from GWP can be customised and enhanced in several ways. Options include print and a range of inserts, dividers fittings and even foam cushioning. These can allow for more efficient packing, better protection for your items in transit, and improved presentation.

Being focused on supplying business packaging means that GWP cannot offer one-off or low volumes of packaging / postal boxes. For such requirements, we recommend buying stock products from an online shop. However, if you are in any doubt, please ask. A GWP expert can advise of the best option for your specific application.