Envelopes

Envelopes are a type of packaging material, typically used for posting flat or low profile items.

Usually, protective envelopes are padded, line with bubble wrap or made from cardboard to provide durable protection in transit.

Padded envelopes are used for shipping small, fragile items such as jewellery, electronics, books and video games that require extra protection.

The cushioning inside the envelope, usually made of bubble wrap or paper, absorbs shock and prevents damage from impacts, vibrations, or compression.

It depends on the materials used.

Padded mailers made from 100% paper can be recycled through the household waste system.

To recycle bubble lined mailers you will need to separate the plastic bubble lining before recycling the paper through the household waste stream. Whilst bubble wrap can be recycled, the material is not consistently recycled in kerbside recycling collections.

Envelopes are available in a variety of sizes. At Macfarlane Packaging, ours start as small as 110 x 160mm up to 656 x 458mm.

Depending on the packed thickness and weight of the shipment, the size of the envelope you use will impact your postal charge. Your shipment will incur postal charges based on the Pricing in Proportion (PIP) system used by postal and courier companies.

For UK customers Royal Mail states that max sizes are:

• Letters: 240mm x 165mm x 5mm
• Large letters: 353mm x 250mm x 25mm
• Small parcel: 450mm x 350mm x 160mm
• Medium parcel: 610mm x 460mm x 460mm
• Large parcel: 1500mm x 300mm

For Irish customers An Post states that max sizes are:

• Letters and postcards: 235mm x 162mm x 5mm
• Large envelopes: 400mm x 300mm x 25mm
• Packets: A combined length, height and depth of 900mm
• Parcels: 1.5 metres

Most padded envelopes and cardboard envelopes come with a self-adhesive strip that you peel off and press down to seal. For added security, you can reinforce the seal with packing tape.

Yes, some padded envelopes are made from water-resistant or waterproof materials to protect the contents from moisture during shipping.

Yes, envelopes can be customised to suit your specific needs and branding requirements. You can customise:

• Print: Envelopes can be custom printed with your company logo, colours, text and graphics.
• Size: Mailers can be made in custom sizes to match the dimensions of your products.
• Sealing: You can choose different closure options, such as peel-and-seal adhesive strips, tamper-evident seals, or resealable closures, depending on your needs.

Please note minimum order quantities will apply on customised envelopes.

Envelopes are lightweight and offer good protection for smaller, delicate items. They are generally more affordable than boxes but less protective. If you need help choosing the right envelope for your business, get in touch with our team.