Part of an efficient order fulfillment process is delivering your products in quality shipping materials that are affordable for you and also create a positive unboxing experience for customers. However, finding reliable and high-quality shipping supplies can be difficult.
I evaluated the top shipping suppliers on the market, selecting the top six options based on price, product selection, customization options, user experience, reviews, reliability, and overall quality. Based on my evaluation, the best sources for shipping supplies for small businesses are:
- The Packaging Company: Best overall source of cheap shipping supplies
- Staples: Best for cheap custom packaging
- Amazon: Best for free shipping and returns
- PackagingSupplies.com: Best for wholesale pricing
- ULINE: Best for fast and reliable shipping
- EcoEnclose: Best for eco-friendly packaging
Top Sources for Cheap Shipping Supplies Compared
Our Score (out of 5) | Pricing ($ to $$$) | Unit Price Scaling | Return Policy | Product Selection | Customization Options | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4.85 | $ | ✓ (No applicable to custom products) | 30 days; return shipping plus 15% restocking fee | Excellent | Excellent |
 | 4.24 | $ | ✓ | Anytime; no fees | Excellent | Excellent |
 | 4.13 | $ - $$ | Varies | 30 days; no fees (Prime) | Excellent | None |
 | 4.13 | $ (wholesale) | ✓ | 30 days; | Very Good | Fair |
 | 3.95 | $$ | ✓ | 30 days; return shipping fee | Excellent | Fair |
 | 3.90 | $$ | ✓ | 90 days; return shipping | Very Good | Good |
*Does not apply in cases of fulfillment error.
Why You Can Trust Fit Small Business
The Fit Small Business Editorial Policy is driven by our company mission to “deliver the best answers to people’s questions.” This involves thorough research and expertise to provide accurate, clear, and authoritative information to meet our audience’s needs.I have over five years of order and payment processing experience and have been evaluating, testing, and writing about ecommerce, point-of-sale, and payment solutions. You can learn more about my specific evaluation of sources of shipping suppliers in the methodology section below.
The Packaging Company: Best Overall Source for Shipping Supplies
Pros
- Extensive customization options
- Wide product selection
- Bundling, composite, and kitting tools
Cons
- No significant bundle discounts
- Returns incur 15% restocking fee
- Quantity discounts don’t apply to custom products
Why I Chose The Packaging Company
I selected The Packaging Company as the top-ranking provider in my evaluation. A standout factor is its extensive customization capabilities—it’s one of only two suppliers on my list (the other being Staples) that allow you to set exact dimensions, colors, and add branding at a competitive price. The Packaging Company also offers a wide variety of supply options paired with great pricing, and it has consistently positive customer reviews.
I was also impressed by its customer service, which includes 24-hour messaging support and helpful phone assistance during standard business hours. Plus, the company doesn’t add any extra shipping fees, making the overall cost more transparent.
However, the return policy was a drawback. The Packaging Company charges a 15% restocking fee in addition to return shipping costs for returned merchandise. In comparison, with Staples, returns are free, and pricing for custom packaging is competitive.
- General product price point: Low, wholesale pricing
- Bundle sizes: Many options
- Return policy: 30 days; return shipping plus 15% restocking fee; except for custom orders unless defective
The Packaging Company offers competitive pricing on both its standard and custom materials.
- Standard materials: Minimum order quantity (MOQ): 10 to 50 units, price scaling available
- Custom materials: MOQ: 25, no price scaling
- Extensive customization options: The Packaging Company is most remarkable for the breadth of its supplies and customization options. It offers custom sizing, adhesives, stickers, boxes, and mailers.
- Wide assortment of packaging materials: It has standard packaging materials for every product type—from food and perishables to posters and clothes.
- Loyalty program: The Packaging Company offers a customer rewards program where you can earn points for every dollar you spend and redeem those points to get money off your purchases.
- Green initiatives: The Packaging Company is dedicated to making eco-friendly packaging materials affordable for businesses of all sizes. It is constantly working to develop new green products and to utilize a high percentage of post-consumer waste. Additionally, all of its facilities are designed to reduce waste and energy consumption.
- Custom quotes: If you plan on ordering in bulk, you can get a custom quote for extra money off your supplies.
The Packaging Company lets you design custom boxes from the inside out.
Staples: Best Cheap Custom Packaging
Pros
- Excellent custom packaging at low prices
- Free returns
- AutoRestock option
Cons
- Limited customer support hours
- Potential delivery delays
- Limited wholesale options
Why I Chose Staples
Staples came very close to The Packaging Company in my evaluation and stood out as the best source for affordable custom packaging. Its extensive selection of shipping supplies and strong customization options at budget-friendly prices make it a great choice for small businesses. One feature that I found particularly valuable is Staples’ flexible return policy, which allows returns at any time without fees—a level of convenience that’s hard to beat.
What also tipped the scale in favor of Staples is its user-friendly website, extensive network of physical stores, and auto-restock option, which simplifies inventory management. This combination of features makes Staples a reliable and efficient choice for businesses that need to keep their stock levels consistent without the hassle of manual reordering.
However, I did find a few areas where Staples fell short. Its limited wholesale discount options may not satisfy businesses that rely on bulk purchasing, and while its customization capabilities are solid, they don’t quite match the range of customizable products offered by specialized suppliers like The Packaging Company.
- General product price point: Low pricing, even for custom orders
- Bundle sizes: Many options
- Return policy: Free returns anytime
Staples offers competitive pricing on both its standard and custom materials.
- Standard materials: MOQ: 25 units, price scaling available
- Custom materials: MOQ: 1, price scaling available
- Affordable custom packaging: Staples offers a wide range of customization options for affordable shipping supplies. Although the variety of customizable products is wider with The Packaging Company, Staples offers lower prices for shipping supplies that it can customize.
- Flexible return policy: Staples has an anytime return policy for office supplies, including shipping supplies, with no associated fees, making it easy to adjust your orders as needed. This policy stands out compared to competitors with more restrictive return conditions.
- Auto-restock option: Staples is the only supplier on this list that features an auto-restock service. With this option, you can schedule automatic deliveries of regularly used supplies without the hassle of manual reordering.
- Extensive product selection: Staples boasts a comprehensive range of shipping supplies, from standard boxes and mailers to eco-friendly options, catering to various business needs and sustainability goals.
- Convenient accessibility: With both an easy-to-use online platform and widespread physical store locations, it is easy and simple to obtain essential supplies quickly.
Staples offers full custom packaging with quantities as low as one and with price scaling.
Amazon: Best for Free Shipping & Returns
Pros
- Free shipping and returns with Prime vendors
- Wide variety of materials
- Easy-to-use interface and customer support
Cons
- Inconsistent pricing
- Inconsistent quality
- Limited customization and branding options
Why I Chose Amazon
I included Amazon in my list due to its extensive range of suppliers and hassle-free shipping and returns. As a vast online marketplace, Amazon is practically unmatched in offering a wide range of packaging materials that can meet various shipping needs, budgets, and timeframes.
What sets Amazon apart is the benefit it offers to Prime members—free shipping and returns when purchasing from Prime-eligible sellers. This convenience is a significant advantage over many other suppliers that charge shipping fees or have restrictive return policies.
However, Amazon’s price points and quality standards can be inconsistent, and there are no customization options available. Additionally, finding specific sizes and quantities in single orders can be challenging, and unit prices generally don’t decrease as order quantities increase.
- General price point: Mid-range (no wholesale pricing)
- Price scaling: Yes (depending on the seller)
- Bundle sizes: Many options, although may be limited for individual listings
- Return policy: 30 days; free Prime returns
Due to the vast number of vendors on Amazon, its price points are highly varied. You can find both fantastic deals and high prices on the Amazon marketplace. Our recommendation would be to base your price point on a steadily economical supplier like PackagingSupplies.com or ULINE, then look for Amazon listings that can compete.
In general, Amazon requires a bit more digging and research to ensure a fair price, but in many cases, it’s worth the effort to save on shipping and return fees.
- One-stop shop: Like The Packaging Company, Amazon offers a wide variety of products for shipping in addition to janitorial supplies and other goods your business may need. Amazon’s vast selection could serve as a one-stop shop for setting up your entire store.
- Free shipping and returns: Amazon offers free shipping and returns on eligible products. To ensure you get free shipping and returns for Prime orders, you must become a Prime member for $14.99 per month.
- Excellent customer support: Amazon itself is your point of contact for customer service. Rather than dealing with individual sellers, you can take up any issues with Amazon’s 24/7 customer service representatives, and they will work with the seller on your behalf.
- Vendor options: With Amazon, you can shop from tons of vendors, allowing you to choose the ones with the best reviews. Additionally, this gives you more reassurance that you won’t run into a stockout, as there are likely multiple vendors for every item you need.
- Prime membership: If you choose to become a Prime member for $14.99 per month or $139 per year, you will get access to free, fast shipping (and returns) from all Amazon Prime sellers. This can save you immense amounts of money, especially when ordering in bulk or needing a quick turnaround.
Since you can shop from thousands of Amazon vendors, Amazon has the most extensive list of shipping supplies available.
PackagingSupplies.com: Best for Wholesale Pricing
Pros
- Wholesale pricing
- Price match guarantee
- 17,000 products and an ever-expanding catalog
Cons
- Limited custom and color options
- Large order size requirements
- Most returns incur 20% restocking fee
Why I Chose PackagingSupplies.com
I included PackagingSupplies.com on my list because it stands out as the only wholesale supplier, committed to offering the lowest prices for shipping materials and backing this with a price match guarantee. The company is also known for its strong customer service and smooth shopping experience.
Despite these advantages, PackagingSupplies.com has some limitations. Its product selection includes moderate color and size options with limited customization (for more customization, The Packaging Company or Staples are better options). Additionally, it doesn’t allow splitting cases or ordering custom quantities. Returns also require authorization, and the company charges for return shipping and restocking fees, unlike Amazon’s and Staples’ more lenient policy.
- General price point: Low, wholesale pricing, price match guarantee
- Price scaling: Yes
- Bundle sizes: Some options
- Return policy: 30 days; return shipping plus 20% restocking fee (depending on the reason for return); authorization required
PackagingSupplies.com’s best asset is its pricing. Not only are prices low, but they also decrease as your quantities grow. It offers wholesale pricing and a price match guarantee.
Like ULINE, shipping charges are based on an order’s size and weight, but it doesn’t tack on any additional handling fees.
Unless the products arrive damaged or a fulfillment error occurs, PackagingSupplies.com charges a 20% restocking fee, the highest among the providers we have evaluated.
Unless the products arrived damaged or a fulfillment error occurred, PackagingSupplies.com charges a 20% restocking fee—the highest among the providers we have evaluated.
PackagingSupplies.com offers wholesale pricing and significant bulk discounts.
- Bulk and wholesale ordering: Unlike The Packaging Company, which offers small orders that work well for budding businesses, PackagingSupplies.com supports orders of up to 2,000 units. It is best for larger businesses simply because of the large orders it expects you to place with them.
- Special packaging options: Under its Retail Packaging product category, it also offers in-store packaging supplies, such as bagging bags, candy and jewelry boxes, and takeout containers. This makes it a helpful resource for all the packaging materials you need for your in-store operations.
- One-stop shop: Along with shipping supplies, you can also order office and janitorial supplies. Not only that, Packaging Supplies also has packaging solutions for in-store, like baskets, shopping bags, and wrapping supplies.
ULINE: Best for Fast & Reliable Shipping
Pros
- Wide product and bundling selection
- Fast, reliable shipping times
- Easy site navigation
Cons
- Limited customization and branding options
- Return shipping fee
- Limited deals and sales
Why I Chose ULINE
I included ULINE on my list because it is one of the most trusted sources for shipping supplies in the country. It is recognized for its reliable service, fast delivery, and high-quality products. ULINE has a vast range of shipping materials and varied bundle sizes, making it a solid option for businesses that value efficiency and quick restocking.
One of the main reasons ULINE lost points was its pricing—its products are generally more expensive compared to The Packaging Company and many Amazon sellers, which could be a barrier for cost-sensitive businesses.
Additionally, while ULINE’s product selection is extensive, its customization options are limited, which might not be ideal for businesses looking to brand or personalize their packaging. Despite these limitations, ULINE remains a strong contender for those prioritizing quality and reliable shipping.
- General price point: Mid-range (no wholesale pricing)
- Price scaling: Yes
- Bundle sizes: Many options
- Return policy: 30 days; return shipping fee (except in cases of fulfillment error), no restocking fee
While it doesn’t run many sales or offer wholesale pricing, ULINE delivers consistent mid-range price points, along with fast shipping. And while ULINE doesn’t offer free shipping, it won’t add fees on top of USPS prices. All shipping costs are based on the weight and size of your materials, so be prepared for larger orders that incur relatively high shipping costs.
- Fast shipping: ULINE has eight warehouses across the country, enabling reliably fast delivery if you need supplies in a rush. For most addresses, it can guarantee a two-day shipping window, although it incurs an additional fee, unlike with Amazon orders.
- Expansive product line and bundle selection: All its products come in various bundle sizes and offer office and janitorial supplies.
- Order by phone or via mail: The company provides a free catalog for browsing the newest products and placing orders over the phone or via mail.
- One-stop shop: As with Amazon and PackagingSupplies.com, ULINE doesn’t stop at shipping supplies. You can also order office, janitorial, storage, safety, in-store, and other supplies.
- Same-day shipping: ULINE guarantees same-day shipping for all orders.
ULINE offers a wide range of shipping supplies.
EcoEnclose: Best for Eco-friendly Shipping Supplies
Pros
- All products are eco-friendly
- Free product samples
- Lower prices for Etsy sellers
Cons
- Limited product options
- Basic customization only
- Higher pricing
Why I Chose EcoEnclose
I selected EcoEnclose as the top choice for eco-friendly shipping supplies because of its commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible products. It offers a range of packaging solutions made from recycled and biodegradable materials. EcoEnclose’s dedication to green practices and offering free product samples make it a suitable option if you are aiming to align your business packaging with eco-conscious values.
A key advantage of EcoEnclose is its partnership with Etsy, which means Etsy sellers can enjoy lower prices on eco-friendly packaging—a valuable perk for small businesses on that platform. However, EcoEnclose scored lower in terms of pricing, as its sustainable packaging can be more expensive compared to traditional options.
Additionally, while the supplier provides basic customization, it lacks the extensive variety and customization options available from competitors like The Packaging Company and Staples.
- General price point: Mid-range, high-volume orders quoted by request
- Price scaling: Yes
- Bundle sizes: Limited options
- Return policy: 90 days; return shipping fee, no restocking fee
EcoEnclose does not cover return shipping fees. In cases of wrong product fulfillment or defective products, it coordinates with you to send you the correct product without having to send the wrong or defective product back.
- Eco-friendly products: All products are made from recycled and biodegradable materials, which is ideal for businesses focused on sustainability.
- Free product samples: Businesses can request free samples to test quality and suitability before making a larger purchase.
- Partnership with Etsy: Etsy sellers receive lower pricing on packaging materials, making it a cost-effective choice for small businesses on the platform.
- Custom printed options: EcoEnclose offers custom printed boxes and mailers, allowing businesses to add a personal touch to their eco-friendly packaging.
- Sustainability focus: EcoEnclose is committed to providing green alternatives that align with eco-conscious business practices, which is also reflected in its flexible return policies.
EcoEnclose offers different product sample kits.
How I Evaluated the Best Sources for Shipping Supplies
In my evaluation of sources for cheap shipping supplies, I looked for features that make the ordering process seamless and provide the best quality goods. I also factored in budgeting considerations like pricing, shipping fees, and each company’s return policy.
Click through the tabs below for the full evaluation criteria.
30% of Overall Score
We looked at the overall price point as well as shipping fees, return fees, and bundle options.
30% of Overall Score
We looked at product variety, color selection, customization options, and size availability.
20% of Overall Score
We looked at ease of website navigation and customer service quality.
20% of Overall Score
We looked at overall quality, reliability, and user reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Click through the questions below to get answers to some of your most frequently asked shipping supplies questions.
FedEx, UPS, and the United States Postal Service (USPS) all offer free shipping supplies for your business, complete with free shipping. While it’s hard to beat free supplies, these couriers have strict quantity limitations, a limited variety of shipping supplies, and require you to ship your orders with them. So, this option is best for microbusinesses or companies just starting.
Shipping supplies do not have to be expensive especially when you buy wholesale and in bulk. Customizations, perishable-safe packaging, and shipping fees can typically make shipping supplies pricier.
Typically, plastic mailers and cardboard boxes are the cheapest shipping supplies.
Bottom Line
Affordable packaging is a crucial element for small retail businesses, and finding suppliers that meet your needs while fitting into your budget can be daunting. It’s vital to know the best providers on the market, their strengths and weaknesses, and how they will function in your business’s operations.
Considering these factors, The Packaging Company is my pick for reliable and customizable materials at a reasonable price.