In the harsh economic climate of today and with the European Union introducing stringent regulations to address packaging waste, businesses are prompted to optimize warehouse space and other aspects of their supply chains. In this article, we delve into the strategic shift away from traditional cardboard boxes to more efficient and cost-effective shipping packaging solutions. Join us as we explore how this transition not only aligns with environmental concerns but, more crucially, contributes to significant increases in supply chain efficiency and allows e-commerce businesses to comply with EU packaging regulations.

Leave cardboard boxes in the past

In the bustling world of e-commerce, the humble cardboard box has long played a pivotal role in transporting goods from manufacturers to consumers. However, the use of traditional cardboard boxes comes with a significant downside – they consume a considerable amount of space, both in warehouses and during transportation.

Warehouses are often stacked with rows upon rows of these boxes, creating inefficiencies in storage and limiting the overall capacity for inventory. This spatial inefficiency translates into increased operational costs for businesses, as they are forced to invest in larger warehouse space to accommodate their growing inventory.

Traditional cardboard boxes take too much warehouse space

Switching to smaller, more fitted shipping packaging, such as padded envelopes or courier bags, presents a compelling solution to this issue. By adopting a packaging strategy that maximizes the use of available space, you can effectively reclaim valuable square footage in your company’s warehouses. This is not only a way to optimize warehouse space, but also – to minimize the need for expansive warehouse facilities, leading to significant cost savings.

But the benefits extend beyond the warehouse. When it comes to transportation, smaller and more fitted packaging reduces the overall volume of each shipment. This reduction in size allows for more packages to be loaded onto a single transport vehicle, optimizing the use of space and fuel efficiency.

Fitted shipping packaging contributes to transport cost reduction

The ‘dimensional weight’ of the package, a pricing technique used by courier and postal services, makes shipping smaller items in boxes significantly more expensive than shipping in fitted packaging, such as courier bags.

Moreover, in a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of discussions, this shift towards smaller packaging brings about a positive ecological impact. With more packages being transported in a single journey, the carbon footprint per item decreases, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly shipping process.

Minimizing empty space: it’s time to ditch the void fillers

Ensuring the safe transport of goods is a primary concern for e-commerce businesses across all industries. However, the conventional approach of utilizing void fillers in traditional corrugated boxes has unintended consequences for our environment. 

Most void fillers are crafted from unrecycled or unrecyclable materials like virgin plastic or cardboard sourced from unsustainable production practices. Of course, biodegradable options do exist, but their higher price point often deters companies from making the switch.

Space optimization in the warehouse? Choose shipping envelopes!

Mailers provide a snug and secure fit for your products, eliminating the need for additional void fillers or padding altogether. By making this switch, businesses can bid farewell to the wasteful void fillers and embrace a packaging solution that not only safeguards the integrity of their products but also aligns with sustainable practices.

 Void space reduction: an alternative to fillers that really works

Benefits extend beyond ecological considerations too; the financial implications are equally compelling. The elimination of void fillers not only reduces material costs but also streamlines the packing process. It translates to valuable time savings in preparing packages, allowing businesses to redirect their resources towards other goals…

Switching to smaller, fitted shipping packaging, like padded envelopes or courier bags, doesn’t just save space and money – it’s a time-saver too. When we move away from traditional boxes and opt for courier bags, workers benefit from a more straightforward packing process.

Increasing your supply chain efficiency by saving time

Unlike boxes that need to be put together and filled with extra padding, courier bags are ready to use, cutting down on the time and effort required by workers. Unlike boxes that demand a 4 or 5 step assembly, tape, and often placing void fillers, poly mailers come ready to use straight off the shelf. It’s simply insert the item, seal the mailer, and affix the shipping label – it’s that easy! The simplicity of using courier bags makes the whole packing process smoother and more streamlined.

PAC Worldwide’s 2021 research has shown that using courier bags significantly boosts efficiency. While a person can load around 50 to 70 boxes per hour, they can handle between 60 and 90 poly mailers or courier bags in the same timeframe.

Choosing packaging that doesn’t require assembling is a logistics optimization

This jump in productivity means workers are able to complete more packages or focus on other important tasks that require their expertise, contributing to a more efficient and productive work environment. The time saved in packing operations can be used for other crucial aspects of the logistics chain, making the entire process more agile and responsive to the demands of a fast-paced market. 

Not only do envelopes and courier bags save space and money, but they also make the workday easier for those responsible for getting your company’s packages ready for shipment. All in all, doing away with boxes and void fillers in favor of smaller, fitted shipping packaging is a win-win situation for businesses, workers and the planet alike.

Get ahead of the new EU packaging regulations with a logistics optimization

A sustainability paradigm shift is underway for e-commerce, and forward-thinking businesses are already positioning themselves to navigate upcoming changes. The European Commission, recognizing the escalating issue of packaging waste, is set to enforce a number of new regulations, ranging from recycling targets to unifying eco-labelling.

With a headline target of reducing packaging waste by 15% by 2040, the new EU packaging directive emphasizes recyclability, but also minimization. One of the PPWD goals is to mandate a 40% limit on empty space in packaging. This includes areas typically filled with void fillers like partitions, kraft paper, bubble wrap, and packaging peanuts.

The implications of these regulations are clear: businesses will need to adapt their shipping & packaging strategies to align with the proposed standards. The 40% limit on empty space will apply, with some e-commerce packaging being exempt but still subject to provisions on packaging minimization.

Minimizing empty space: the smartest strategy towards the proposed EU packaging legislation

One key aspect of this transition will be the efficient utilization of space – which in the reality of transport translates to less CO2 emissions. Cardboard boxes, with their inherent wastage of unused space, will become increasingly unsustainable in the face of the new regulations. 

Fortunately, alternatives exist, and businesses can proactively address this challenge by making a strategic switch from traditional cardboard boxes to eco-friendly shipping packaging. By embracing more space-effective options such as envelopes and courier bags, businesses can not only comply with the impending EU regulations but also unlock warehouse space and reduce operational costs.

Beyond mere regulatory compliance, this shift towards more compact packaging is part of a broader movement towards real sustainability in shipping practices. As Europe strives to meet ambitious emissions reduction targets, consumers too increasingly favor companies that exhibit social responsibility by aligning with values such as environmental commitment, among others.

Meet the growing demand for eco-friendly shipping solutions

The gravity of the ongoing environmental crisis is widely recognized by consumers, with a 2021 report from Pew Research revealing that 72% of individuals across 17 advanced economies express concerns about personal harm from climate change during their lifetimes. This heightened awareness highlights the growing acknowledgment of the imminent threats posed by climate change, leading to an escalating demand for sustainable solutions among consumers.

While it was previously thought it was the younger generations, specifically Gen Z and Millennials, who were the primary advocates for sustainability, presently, individuals across various income levels and age groups express a desire to support sustainability. Notably, it is not merely a shift in consumer attitudes; their actions are also evolving. 

A 2020 McKinsey US consumer sentiment survey highlighted the significance of environmentally friendly packaging as one of the key attributes that matter most to consumers, while in 2022 the IBV has found that over half of consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable packaging, indicating a tangible commitment to their values.

A harsh economic climate calls for streamlining supply chains – and shipping packaging can help

As the cost of living crisis and inflation continue to impact countries across Europe, striking a balance between sustainability and costs has become crucial. In this challenging economic climate, both companies and consumers are reassessing their budgets.

Businesses are faced with the dilemma of incorporating eco-friendly practices while managing rising expenses. In response, choosing more space-efficient packaging emerges as a practical solution. 

Instead of investing in expensive options like biodegradable fillers, which might strain their budgets further or cause them to raise product prices, businesses can achieve sustainability goals by opting for packaging that saves space. It’s a smart strategy that helps businesses navigate financial challenges while still contributing to a more sustainable future.

Beyond regulatory compliance in packaging: embracing sustainability is a smart business move

The collective shift in consumer preferences reflects a broader societal transformation towards prioritizing sustainable practices and products. By proactively embracing more sustainable, space-effective alternatives, businesses can simultaneously comply with regulations, save on operational costs, and contribute to a more environmentally conscious and efficient future for the e-commerce industry. 

It’s not just about regulatory compliance in packaging anymore; it’s a smart move towards a more sustainable and competitive business model. Companies that understand and respond to this shift stand to gain not only in terms of consumer loyalty but also in meeting the evolving expectations of an increasingly socially conscious market.

Streamlining your supply chain with eco-friendly shipping packaging has never been easier

As we conclude our article, it’s evident that the traditional cardboard box is undergoing a reevaluation. In the dynamic world of e-commerce, where spatial efficiency is currency, those familiar boxes are revealing a significant downside – consuming excessive space in both warehouses and transit.The switch to smaller, fitted shipping packaging, like our eco-friendly bubble envelopes and courier bags, is a win-win situation for businesses and the planet alike.

Save on time and warehouse space

Embracing packaging that optimizes available space allows businesses to bid farewell to the need for pricey and unsustainable fillers and oversized warehouses, freeing up funds for more critical endeavors.

But another facet of streamlining supply chains with this switch comes in the form of a different resource: time. Using envelopes or courier bags is easy – no need for complicated assembly or putting in extra fillers. Packing becomes smoother and faster, so the workers can get more done in the same timeframe, or dedicate their time to other pressing tasks.

Increase your supply chain efficiency with space-saving packaging techniques

This shift away from cardboard boxes only unlocks many cost-saving opportunities but it also aligns with the growing global consciousness towards eco-friendly practices in logistics and transportation. As consumers’ preferences continue to evolve, embracing innovative, eco-friendly packaging solutions becomes imperative. This is further reinforced by the aforementioned changes in the EU packaging regulations. 

The European Commission’s proposals are a clear indication of the coming paradigm shift in the shipping packaging landscape. In a tangible commitment to sustainable practices, the EU is set on proving that businesses should be able to protect their products during transit without compromising on environmental responsibility. 

As e-commerce business’ owners navigate the delicate balance between economic viability and ecological stewardship, adopting innovative solutions that promote efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability becomes paramount. 

Switching to more space-efficient shipping solutions, like bubble envelopes or courier bags, is a simple and smart change you can make right now to streamline your supply chain and get ahead of the competition.

AT FILMAR we take pride in offering a diverse range of eco-friendly products that contribute to a healthier planet but at the same time allow businesses to increase their efficiency through logistics optimization. Explore our durable Bubble envelopes, crafted from 70% recycled materials and FSC-certified paper and our 80% recycled courier bags that not only save space and money but also help reduce emissions during transportation.

Additionally, we offer 50% recycled and fully recyclable bubble film, for all the items that need that extra layer of protection. Together, these products mark our commitment to supplying e-commerce owners with sustainable and affordable shipping packaging solutions.

Choose our certified eco-friendly mailers today:

Products

In a world that’s becoming increasingly aware of environmental concerns, businesses are under more significant pressure than ever to adopt sustainable packaging practices. One such area of innovation lies in printing solutions used for packaging. This is where water-based ink comes into play. In this article, we will explore the benefits and disadvantages of the growing trend of using water-based ink in shipping packaging.

Why choose water-based ink for your shipping packaging?

Before we delve into the world of water-based ink, it’s essential to understand the existing ink technologies available on the market. Historically, solvent-based and oil-based inks have been popular choices in various industries. However, these traditional inks come with their set of environmental concerns. 

There are 3 essential components to ink: varnishes, oil and pigments. As these are not all natural, traditional ink is not biodegradable. Oil that is used in manufacturing modern paint is often petroleum-based. Moreover, most popular inks are often laced with additional chemicals that – much like preservatives in food – are supposed to enhance its quality and durability. These plastic or synthetic polymers are also often made from crude oil, adding to the CO2 emissions. 

Varnishes, lacquers, moistening solutions and washing solvents all contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and air pollutants (HAPs). As Turkish Engineering and Design scientists note, “VOCs and HAPs, together with sunlight and nitrogen oxides, cause photochemical smoke and ground level ozone emission in the atmosphere.”

The negative impact of throwing heavily printed products into the garbage also has to be considered. The volatile organic compounds and heavy metals in ink can lead to soil and even water pollution when left in landfills. With individual ink cartridges and printed paper or plastic not always being disposed of properly, and the harmful emissions of VOCs and HAP, traditional ink is, little by little, amounting to a bigger environmental issue. This has led to a search for greener alternatives.

What is water-based ink?

Water-based ink is an innovative solution that uses water as the primary solvent, reducing the need for harmful chemicals. This eco-friendly ink is made up of pigments or dyes suspended in water, making it a safe and sustainable option. The shift towards water-based ink in the packaging industry is driven by the need for cleaner and more environmentally responsible production methods.

 Water-based ink is healthier and safer – for people and for the planet

Water-based ink is safer when it comes to disposal and decomposing, ensuring that no toxic substances leach into the environment. This is also because oils found in traditional ink are produced in a way that ensures they remain intact indefinitely. 

Consequently, we are left with oil-based components, as well as microplastics and nanoplastics, persisting in the environment for many years, even decades after their initial use. It’s important to note that the decomposition process is a slow one, often spanning decades or even longer. This is not the case with water-based ink. The reduction in VOC emissions when switching to water-based ink can be as high as 95%.

But water-based ink isn’t just better for the environment; it’s also safer for the people involved in the production process. The materials generated during printing with traditional solvent-based ink, particularly during the drying phase, can lead to significant health issues. 

These traditional inks generate harmful substances that in the short term can result in skin and eye irritations. Long term inhalation of ink fumes and odors may lead to conditions such as asthma, respiratory problems, and, in severe instances, even organ cancer. In fact, oil-based ink cartridges are often marked with labels indicating potential health hazards associated with these substances. Unlike traditional inks, water-based ink does not emit harmful fumes, making the working environment healthier for employees. 

Eco-friendly mailers – an alternative for traditionally printed envelopes

One of the primary reasons for embracing water-based ink printing is its eco-friendliness. It significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to solvent-based and oil-based inks. Let’s explore the many benefits of water-based inks together:

By choosing water-based printing on shipping packaging, companies can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future, reducing the carbon footprint of their shipments.

The same look and durability of your packaging products, but greener

The switch to water-based ink doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. This printing technique enables the precise replication of digital images and designs, encompassing photographs and illustrations, onto a diverse range of paper types. In fact, it offers a whole range of benefits while maintaining the high standards you expect from your shipping packaging.

 High-detail print for your shipping envelopes

Despite being eco-friendly, water-based ink is incredibly versatile. Due to its composition primarily consisting of gentle resins, and evaporative water during the curing phase, most water-based ink permeates fabric more deeply than solvent-based inks, resulting in a softer print. However, it still allows for high-detail prints, vibrant colors, and sharp images. This means you can maintain the visual appeal of your shipping packaging while being kinder to the environment. 

Photo by Silvano Audisio, Adobe Stock

However, when using water-based inks achieving a durable finish involves more than simply coating with ink…

Different process – same durability of print on your shipping packaging

Concerned about the durability of water-based ink for your e-commerce and business shipments? Worry not! Water-based ink can match the longevity and resilience of traditional inks, ensuring that your packaging design remains intact throughout the shipping process. 

The objective of water-based inks is to ensure their full sensitivity to heat. When these inks undergo heating, they should maintain their integrity without flaking or fading. This can be achieved using various methods like a heat press, a drying tunnel, a tumble dryer, hand irons, or by subjecting the fabric to low-temperature baking. When done right, this process enhances their durability and resistance to heat and other types of damage. 

Water-based inks were first used in arts and crafts like calligraphy and rubber stamping, but they have since made their way into printing and ads precisely because they create high-quality images that can endure different weather conditions and transport.

Try water-based ink yourself – now available in FILMAR’s shipping packaging products!

Ready to make the switch to water-based ink? At FILMAR, we believe that you should not have to choose between sustainable solutions and high-quality shipping packaging, especially when it comes to protecting the most valuable or confidential items. That’s why our security envelopes are now available with recycled plastic and safer, eco-friendly water-based ink. We have also upgraded our versatile shipping mailers. With 80% recycled plastic and water-based ink, the Co-Ex Filbag is now among the greenest choices on the market. And these are only the first steps towards our ultimate goal of implementing eco-friendly ink in all our packaging products.

Security envelopes are a great choice if your company is shipping delicate products that just need an extra layer of protection. Photo albums, ceramics, CDs, delicate electronics, or confidential documents, such as medical files – you name it, the security envelopes got you covered. Equipped with special safeguards in order to guarantee the protection and confidentiality of your parcels, these packaging solutions are tamper proof and leak proof – and are only produced on demand in order to meet the needs of our clients.

 Customize your eco-friendly shipping envelopes

In today’s competitive e-commerce landscape, simply ensuring secure transportation of goods is no longer sufficient. Alongside sustainability, customers often expect personalized packaging. Online retailers shipping products are evaluated based on the effort put into their packaging solutions. 

In fact, one study has found that as much as 63% of consumers agree that packaging is as important as the brand itself, which makes eye-catching shipping packaging solutions very powerful tools to attract and retain customers. Careful attention to shipping packaging is a must – and that’s why we offer customization with water-based ink printing on Co-Ex Filbags, our versatile shipping bags that are perfect for shipping clothes, cosmetics and accessories among others.

Customization is a valuable tool for businesses, allowing you to stand out and show your customers that you care for their needs. And by incorporating water-based ink into your printed packaging, you send a clear message to your clients that you’re as committed to reducing your environmental impact as you can be! This not only sets you apart from competition but also builds trust with eco-conscious consumers, especially the younger generations. 

Check our 80% recycled shipping mailers here – now available with water-based ink printing!

Enhance brand image by choosing sustainable packaging solutions

In a world where environmental concerns are paramount, aligning your brand with sustainable practices can be a game-changer. Did you know that almost 60% of consumers are now less likely to buy when the packaging is harmful to the environment? With consumers becoming more and more educated on the topic, it’s only a matter of time before solvent-based inks are condemned for their dubious environmental impact. 

By adopting water-based ink early, you can get a competitive advantage and not only reduce your carbon footprint but also bolster your brand’s reputation. Choosing custom packaging with water-based ink, such as FILMAR’s security envelopes, showcases your commitment to responsible packaging and aligns your business with the values of eco-friendly consumers.

Customization and sustainability: all that your customers want from your shipping packaging

In today’s evolving landscape, environmental consciousness is steering businesses towards more sustainable packaging practices. Water-based ink, as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional solvent-based inks, has emerged as a crucial innovation in printing solutions for packaging, significantly altering the dynamics of the industry.

It seeks to address the shortcomings of traditional ink technologies, particularly solvent-based and oil-based inks, notorious for their environmental hazards.  These inks comprise non-biodegradable components and additional chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and air pollutants, that contribute to soil and water pollution, causing environmental degradation.

Opt for water-based ink in sustainable packaging products that don’t harm the environment

Water-based ink, with its primary solvent being water, presents a compelling case for environmental sustainability. It offers a safer disposal and decomposing process, mitigating the risk of harmful substances leaching into the environment. Furthermore, in contrast to traditional inks, water-based ink significantly minimizes health risks for workers by eliminating the emission of harmful fumes.

No need to sacrifice print quality – eco-friendly mailers with high-quality print are here!

Water-based eco-friendly ink champions quality without compromise, allowing for precise printing of digital images and designs onto a diverse range of paper types. Maintaining the visual appeal of your packaging while minding sustainability has never been easier – and it is exactly what consumers expect. 

This ink isn’t just an eco-conscious solution; it also resonates with customers. Nowadays, packaging is perceived as equally important as the brand itself. Opting for visually appealing, eco-friendly packaging can truly make a business stand out. By choosing water-based ink for custom packaging, such as FILMAR’s security envelopes, a company displays its commitment to environmental responsibility and resonates with customers who share similar concerns.

The transition towards water-based ink is not merely a shift in technology; it’s part of a larger shift towards sustainability, driven by the need for cleaner and more environmentally responsible production processes. It’s about delivering top-notch printing, maintaining a visually appealing product, and, most importantly, making a positive impact on the environment—all bundled into one innovative package!

While our ultimate goal is achieving 100% recyclable packaging mailers and total climate neutrality of our operations, we are continuously striving towards that vision. In the meantime, we take pride in offering a diverse range of eco-friendly products that contribute to a healthier planet.

With the option to customize shipping packaging using water-based ink, you can now send a powerful message about your company’s commitment to the environment, making your parcels greener, safer, and more appealing. Start with discovering our eco-friendly Co-Ex Filbags and security envelopes.

Choose our certified eco-friendly mailers today:

Why choose water-based ink for your shipping packaging?

Before we delve into the world of water-based ink, it’s essential to understand the existing ink technologies available on the market. Historically, solvent-based and oil-based inks have been popular choices in various industries. However, these traditional inks come with their set of environmental concerns. 

There are 3 essential components to ink: varnishes, oil and pigments. As these are not all natural, traditional ink is not biodegradable. Oil that is used in manufacturing modern paint is often petroleum-based. Moreover, most popular inks are often laced with additional chemicals that – much like preservatives in food – are supposed to enhance its quality and durability. These plastic or synthetic polymers are also often made from crude oil, adding to the CO2 emissions. 

Varnishes, lacquers, moistening solutions and washing solvents all contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and air pollutants (HAPs). As Turkish Engineering and Design scientists note, “VOCs and HAPs, together with sunlight and nitrogen oxides, cause photochemical smoke and ground level ozone emission in the atmosphere.”

The negative impact of throwing heavily printed products into the garbage also has to be considered. The volatile organic compounds and heavy metals in ink can lead to soil and even water pollution when left in landfills. With individual ink cartridges and printed paper or plastic not always being disposed of properly, and the harmful emissions of VOCs and HAP, traditional ink is, little by little, amounting to a bigger environmental issue. This has led to a search for greener alternatives.

What is water-based ink?

Water-based ink is an innovative solution that uses water as the primary solvent, reducing the need for harmful chemicals. This eco-friendly ink is made up of pigments or dyes suspended in water, making it a safe and sustainable option. The shift towards water-based ink in the packaging industry is driven by the need for cleaner and more environmentally responsible production methods.

 Water-based ink is healthier and safer – for people and for the planet

Water-based ink is safer when it comes to disposal and decomposing, ensuring that no toxic substances leach into the environment. This is also because oils found in traditional ink are produced in a way that ensures they remain intact indefinitely. 

Consequently, we are left with oil-based components, as well as microplastics and nanoplastics, persisting in the environment for many years, even decades after their initial use. It’s important to note that the decomposition process is a slow one, often spanning decades or even longer. This is not the case with water-based ink. The reduction in VOC emissions when switching to water-based ink can be as high as 95%.

But water-based ink isn’t just better for the environment; it’s also safer for the people involved in the production process. The materials generated during printing with traditional solvent-based ink, particularly during the drying phase, can lead to significant health issues. 

These traditional inks generate harmful substances that in the short term can result in skin and eye irritations. Long term inhalation of ink fumes and odors may lead to conditions such as asthma, respiratory problems, and, in severe instances, even organ cancer. In fact, oil-based ink cartridges are often marked with labels indicating potential health hazards associated with these substances. Unlike traditional inks, water-based ink does not emit harmful fumes, making the working environment healthier for employees. 

Eco-friendly mailers – an alternative for traditionally printed envelopes

One of the primary reasons for embracing water-based ink printing is its eco-friendliness. It significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to solvent-based and oil-based inks. Let’s explore the many benefits of water-based inks together:

By choosing water-based printing on shipping packaging, companies can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future, reducing the carbon footprint of their shipments.

The same look and durability of your packaging products, but greener

The switch to water-based ink doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. This printing technique enables the precise replication of digital images and designs, encompassing photographs and illustrations, onto a diverse range of paper types. In fact, it offers a whole range of benefits while maintaining the high standards you expect from your shipping packaging.

 High-detail print for your shipping envelopes

Despite being eco-friendly, water-based ink is incredibly versatile. Due to its composition primarily consisting of gentle resins, and evaporative water during the curing phase, most water-based ink permeates fabric more deeply than solvent-based inks, resulting in a softer print. However, it still allows for high-detail prints, vibrant colors, and sharp images. This means you can maintain the visual appeal of your shipping packaging while being kinder to the environment. 

Photo by Silvano Audisio, Adobe Stock

However, when using water-based inks achieving a durable finish involves more than simply coating with ink…

Different process – same durability of print on your shipping packaging

Concerned about the durability of water-based ink for your e-commerce and business shipments? Worry not! Water-based ink can match the longevity and resilience of traditional inks, ensuring that your packaging design remains intact throughout the shipping process. 

The objective of water-based inks is to ensure their full sensitivity to heat. When these inks undergo heating, they should maintain their integrity without flaking or fading. This can be achieved using various methods like a heat press, a drying tunnel, a tumble dryer, hand irons, or by subjecting the fabric to low-temperature baking. When done right, this process enhances their durability and resistance to heat and other types of damage. 

Water-based inks were first used in arts and crafts like calligraphy and rubber stamping, but they have since made their way into printing and ads precisely because they create high-quality images that can endure different weather conditions and transport.

Try water-based ink yourself – now available in FILMAR’s shipping packaging products!

Ready to make the switch to water-based ink? At FILMAR, we believe that you should not have to choose between sustainable solutions and high-quality shipping packaging, especially when it comes to protecting the most valuable or confidential items. That’s why our security envelopes are now available with recycled plastic and safer, eco-friendly water-based ink. We have also upgraded our versatile shipping mailers. With 80% recycled plastic and water-based ink, the Co-Ex Filbag is now among the greenest choices on the market. And these are only the first steps towards our ultimate goal of implementing eco-friendly ink in all our packaging products.

Security envelopes are a great choice if your company is shipping delicate products that just need an extra layer of protection. Photo albums, ceramics, CDs, delicate electronics, or confidential documents, such as medical files – you name it, the security envelopes got you covered. Equipped with special safeguards in order to guarantee the protection and confidentiality of your parcels, these packaging solutions are tamper proof and leak proof – and are only produced on demand in order to meet the needs of our clients.

 Customize your eco-friendly shipping envelopes

In today’s competitive e-commerce landscape, simply ensuring secure transportation of goods is no longer sufficient. Alongside sustainability, customers often expect personalized packaging. Online retailers shipping products are evaluated based on the effort put into their packaging solutions. 

In fact, one study has found that as much as 63% of consumers agree that packaging is as important as the brand itself, which makes eye-catching shipping packaging solutions very powerful tools to attract and retain customers. Careful attention to shipping packaging is a must – and that’s why we offer customization with water-based ink printing on Co-Ex Filbags, our versatile shipping bags that are perfect for shipping clothes, cosmetics and accessories among others.

Customization is a valuable tool for businesses, allowing you to stand out and show your customers that you care for their needs. And by incorporating water-based ink into your printed packaging, you send a clear message to your clients that you’re as committed to reducing your environmental impact as you can be! This not only sets you apart from competition but also builds trust with eco-conscious consumers, especially the younger generations. 

Check our 80% recycled shipping mailers here – now available with water-based ink printing!

Enhance brand image by choosing sustainable packaging solutions

In a world where environmental concerns are paramount, aligning your brand with sustainable practices can be a game-changer. Did you know that almost 60% of consumers are now less likely to buy when the packaging is harmful to the environment? With consumers becoming more and more educated on the topic, it’s only a matter of time before solvent-based inks are condemned for their dubious environmental impact. 

By adopting water-based ink early, you can get a competitive advantage and not only reduce your carbon footprint but also bolster your brand’s reputation. Choosing custom packaging with water-based ink, such as FILMAR’s security envelopes, showcases your commitment to responsible packaging and aligns your business with the values of eco-friendly consumers.

Customization and sustainability: all that your customers want from your shipping packaging

In today’s evolving landscape, environmental consciousness is steering businesses towards more sustainable packaging practices. Water-based ink, as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional solvent-based inks, has emerged as a crucial innovation in printing solutions for packaging, significantly altering the dynamics of the industry.

It seeks to address the shortcomings of traditional ink technologies, particularly solvent-based and oil-based inks, notorious for their environmental hazards.  These inks comprise non-biodegradable components and additional chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and air pollutants, that contribute to soil and water pollution, causing environmental degradation.

Opt for water-based ink in sustainable packaging products that don’t harm the environment

Water-based ink, with its primary solvent being water, presents a compelling case for environmental sustainability. It offers a safer disposal and decomposing process, mitigating the risk of harmful substances leaching into the environment. Furthermore, in contrast to traditional inks, water-based ink significantly minimizes health risks for workers by eliminating the emission of harmful fumes.

No need to sacrifice print quality – eco-friendly mailers with high-quality print are here!

Water-based eco-friendly ink champions quality without compromise, allowing for precise printing of digital images and designs onto a diverse range of paper types. Maintaining the visual appeal of your packaging while minding sustainability has never been easier – and it is exactly what consumers expect. 

This ink isn’t just an eco-conscious solution; it also resonates with customers. Nowadays, packaging is perceived as equally important as the brand itself. Opting for visually appealing, eco-friendly packaging can truly make a business stand out. By choosing water-based ink for custom packaging, such as FILMAR’s security envelopes, a company displays its commitment to environmental responsibility and resonates with customers who share similar concerns.

The transition towards water-based ink is not merely a shift in technology; it’s part of a larger shift towards sustainability, driven by the need for cleaner and more environmentally responsible production processes. It’s about delivering top-notch printing, maintaining a visually appealing product, and, most importantly, making a positive impact on the environment—all bundled into one innovative package!

While our ultimate goal is achieving 100% recyclable packaging mailers and total climate neutrality of our operations, we are continuously striving towards that vision. In the meantime, we take pride in offering a diverse range of eco-friendly products that contribute to a healthier planet.

With the option to customize shipping packaging using water-based ink, you can now send a powerful message about your company’s commitment to the environment, making your parcels greener, safer, and more appealing. Start with discovering our eco-friendly Co-Ex Filbags and security envelopes.

Choose our certified eco-friendly mailers today:

Did you know that the average European generates a staggering 180 kg of packaging waste every year? As online shopping continues to boom, packaging waste is on an ever-increasing rise. Recently, the European Union has taken bold steps to address this issue head-on with several new laws aimed at protecting the environment and climate. In this article, we’ll explore how the new EU regulations will impact the shipping packaging industry and revolutionize e-commerce in the coming years…

In this article:

1. EUROPEAN LEADERS DOUBLE DOWN ON CLOSING THE RECYCLING LOOP IN PACKAGING
2. EU PACKAGING WASTE IS ON THE RISE
3. NEW EU PACKAGING REGULATION SETS COURSE FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
4. EU DIRECTIVE ON PACKAGING AND PACKAGING WASTE WILL TRANSFORM SHIPPING PACKAGING AND ECOMMERCE
5. BEYOND EU PACKAGING LEGISLATION: CUTTING SEA TRANSPORT EMISSIONS AND PROTECTING FORESTS
6. EU SET ON  CUTTING MARITIME EMISSIONS WITH AMBITIOUS TARGETS FOR THE SHIPPING SECTOR  
7. EU’S ANTI-DEFORESTATION BILL TAKES ACTION: COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE AND BIODIVERSITY LOSS   
8. CLOSING THE RECYCLING LOOP: A LOOK AT THE FIRST PACKAGE OF EU CIRCULAR ECONOMY ACTION PLAN’S MEASURES
9. NEW EUROPEAN UNION PACKAGING REGULATIONS: A CHALLENGE OR AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ECOMMERCE?
10. NEW RECYCLED PACKAGING TARGETS
11. GROWING DEMAND FOR REUSABLE, REFILLABLE AND RECYCLABLE PACKAGING
12. ECO MAILERS SET TO REDEFINE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION AND EMISSIONS REDUCTION
13. SUSTAINABLE FORESTRY PRACTICES: A KEY TO ECO PACKAGING
14. RECYCLABLE PACKAGING IS THE FUTURE – IT’S TIME TO EMBRACE IT!

European leaders double down on closing the recycling loop in packaging

In the pursuit of a cleaner environment and climate justice, European leaders have lately taken a resolute stance by introducing a series of new laws aimed at protecting our planet. Many of these initiatives are part of the European Green Deal, a  long-term growth strategy set forth by the European Commission in 2020 with the ambitious goal of making Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.

In February 2021, the European Parliament also adopted a resolution on the new Circular Economy Action Plan for a cleaner and more competitive Europe (CEAP), demanding additional measures to achieve a carbon-neutral, environmentally sustainable, toxic-free and fully circular economy by 2050. This Action Plan has since become one of the main building blocks of the European Green Deal.

Embracing economic growth and competitiveness of European businesses while reducing resource consumption and CO₂ emissions is at the core of these laws, but it is evident that many industries will nevertheless need to make significant adjustments to adhere to the new eco-friendly mandates. 

As the shipping packaging industry, especially in the era of online shopping, plays a significant role in environmental degradation and climate change, the EU is proactively revising and introducing new regulations to address its adverse impact. These include a proposed revision to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, a cleaner maritime fuels deal, and an ambitious anti-deforestation bill, among others.

EU packaging waste is on the rise

Packaging stands as a major consumer of virgin materials, with 40% of plastics and 50% of paper in the EU dedicated to packaging purposes. E-commerce’s continuous growth only exacerbates the situation, making it crucial to address the packaging industry’s environmental impact. Without action, the EU was projected to experience a concerning 19% rise in packaging waste by 2030, and an alarming 46% surge in plastic packaging waste.

Recognizing this urgent need, in November 2022 the European Commission put forward a proposal for the revision of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) that seeks to tackle the issue at its root. 

Photo by Lara Jameson, Pexels

New EU packaging regulation sets course for a more sustainable future

A part of the European Green Deal and the new Circular Economy Action Plan, the PPWD’s headline target is to reduce packaging waste by 15% by 2040 (per Member State per capita, compared to 2018). To achieve this goal, it sets forward three main objectives:

• Firstly, the focus is on preventing the generation of packaging waste by reducing its quantity, limiting unnecessary packaging, and encouraging the adoption of reusable and refillable packaging alternatives.
• Secondly, the aim is to enhance high-quality recycling (‘closed loop’) by ensuring that all packaging within the EU market is recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030.
• Lastly, the strategy involves reducing dependency on primary natural resources and establishing a robust market for secondary raw materials, accomplished by implementing mandatory targets to increase the utilization of recycled plastics in packaging.

By the end of 2024, EU countries should implement producer responsibility schemes covering all packaging. Additionally, the PPWD outlines ambitious recycling targets: aiming for 65% of all packaging to be recycled by 2025, and further increasing it to 70% by 2030. For plastic, the targets are set at 50% and 55%, while for paper & cardboard, the goals are 75% and 85% respectively.

EU directive on packaging and packaging waste will transform shipping packaging and ecommerce

As of July 2023, this revision proposal has been forwarded for consideration to both the European Parliament and the Council. Once accepted, it will compel Member States to revise their national legislation.

It is important to note that directives such as the PPWD are binding with respect to the intended result, but each Member State chooses the form and method for national implementation. However, there is no doubt that when these revisions take effect, many businesses throughout the EU will face the need to undertake significant changes in their goals and operations.

While this legislation is a vital component of the European Green Deal (EGD) specifically targeting the shipping packaging and e-commerce sectors, it is just one of many laws that will encourage and challenge these industries to adopt more sustainable practices in the near future.

Beyond EU packaging legislation: cutting sea transport emissions and protecting forests

EU set on cutting maritime emissions with ambitious targets for the shipping sector

In another move towards a more sustainable future, at the end of March 2023 the European Parliament and Council have reached a deal on cutting maritime transfer emissions. In the EU, waterborne transport – the backbone of e-commerce transport – has generated 3 to 4% of total CO₂ emissions in 2021. 

The new regulations aim to combat ship emissions head-on, setting ambitious targets of gradually decreasing the greenhouse gas intensity of fuels used by the shipping sector over time, by 2% in 2025 to as much as 80% by 2050.

Photo by Martin Damboldt, Pexels

In order to meet these exacting targets for emissions reduction, every aspect of the shipping process will require a thoughtful overhaul. This includes packaging solutions. Replacing traditional corrugated boxes with eco-friendly courier bags, like FILMAR’s Co-Ex Filbag poly mailers, is a good starting point. Courier bags take up less space during transportation, allowing more goods to be shipped. By optimizing space and emissions expenses simultaneously, the shipping industry can embrace its responsibility as a vital player in shaping a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

As Europe endeavors to achieve the ambitious objectives of reducing emissions in waterborne transport, it becomes increasingly evident that addressing emissions concerns needs to extend beyond maritime activities. The impact of deforestation is also a pressing concern, as forests play a crucial role in offsetting emissions.

EU’s anti-deforestation bill takes action: combatting climate change and biodiversity loss

Shockingly, an area larger than the entire EU was lost to deforestation in the last 30 years, with EU consumption causing around 10% of these losses. This alarming data calls for urgent action, which is why the European Parliament has adopted new legislation reflecting the EU’s dedication to fighting climate change and biodiversity loss. This new law, dubbed the ‘EU’s anti-deforestation bill’ came into effect on June 30th, 2023.

Photo by Pok Rie, Pexels

Designed to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity, the new law mandates that companies ensure their products sold in the EU have not contributed to deforestation or forest degradation. This legislation covers a wide range of products, including cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soya, and wood, as well as items made from or containing these commodities. During negotiations, MEPs further expanded the scope of this list to include rubber, charcoal, printed paper products, and various palm oil derivatives. 

As part of the law’s requirements, all companies selling in the Common Market will now be obliged to conduct audits and issue due-diligence statements regarding their production processes in this context. For companies producing “secondary” goods using any of the listed products, selling them in the EU will be permitted only if their suppliers also provide relevant due diligence statements.

As a company with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification for all our paper-based packaging products, we are pleased to witness the EU mandating similar standards for other companies. This collective effort will undoubtedly contribute to addressing the issue of irresponsible forestry and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Closing the recycling loop: a look at the first package of EU Circular Economy Action Plan’s measures

In line with the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal under the Green Deal, in March 2022 the European Commission proposed the first package of measures to accelerate the transition towards a circular economy. Building on the Circular Economy Action Plan introduced a year prior, these proposals encompass various aspects, such as promoting sustainable products, empowering consumers to embrace green practices, evaluating construction regulation, and developing a strategy for sustainable textiles.

One proposal with a direct impact on the shipping and packaging industry involves implementing stricter recycling rules and setting binding targets for materials use and consumption footprint. As of July 2023, MEPs have called on the Commission to propose product-specific and/or sector-specific binding targets for recycled content, stressing that ‘binding 2030 targets are needed for materials use and our consumption footprint, covering the whole lifecycle of each product category placed on the EU market’. Considering the strong determination displayed by the EU in revising sustainability regulations, it appears that the approval of such targets is only a matter of time.

As part of last year’s package, there is also a proposal for new rules aimed at empowering consumers during the green transition. These rules seek to equip consumers with improved information about the environmental sustainability of products and offer better protection against greenwashing practices.

New European Union packaging regulations: a challenge or an opportunity for ecommerce?

The EU is particularly determined to address the growing packaging waste issue and put the packaging sector on track for climate neutrality by 2050. This involves promoting reusable packaging options, reducing overpacking, and providing clear, standardized recycling labels. Boosting recycling capacity and minimizing the use of virgin materials will make for a significant step towards a greener future.

With the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive proposed revision currently in the hands of the co-legislators, companies now have the opportunity to plan how they will meet the directive’s goals. 

New recycled packaging targets

Some key PPWD measures include ensuring that packaging in the EU becomes recyclable in an economically viable manner with targets for 2030 set at 70% for all materials, 55% for plastic, and 85% for paper and cardboard. Moreover, all new plastic packaging will be subject to mandatory rates of recycled content that producers must incorporate. As a result, all packaging companies will need to swiftly adjust their product designs and production technology.

At FILMAR, our dedication to recycling has been a longstanding commitment that preceded this revision. Just recently, in our commitment to becoming more eco-friendly, we have upgraded our Bubble mailers to be even greener. Previously made of 50% recycled materials, their design has been transformed and they are now composed of 70% recycled materials (paper and plastic) – reaching the EU Packaging Directive 2030 target with 7 years to spare! 

Check our 70% recycled Classic and Extra Strong Bubble envelopes here.

Growing demand for reusable, refillable and recyclable packaging

To encourage the reuse or refill of packaging, which has significantly declined in the last two decades, companies will need to provide a specific percentage of their products to consumers in reusable or refillable packaging. 

While it’s yet to be determined which sectors will be most impacted by this goal, there’s no doubt that the growing demand for reusable and refillable packaging will reshape the landscape of the most commonly used packaging products.

Our resealable courier bags offer a convenient and durable re-closing system, making them a more sustainable and convenient choice for ecommerce.

Eco mailers set to redefine sustainable transportation and emission reduction

As Europe strives to meet the ambitious targets for emissions reduction, shipping practices will also undergo significant transformations. Innovative solutions, exemplified by FILMAR’s eco-friendly poly mailers, will likely replace conventional corrugated boxes. 

By using courier bags that take up less space, shipping goods becomes more efficient, leading to significant cost and emissions savings during transportation – and with the new maritime transfer emissions standards, courier bags are likely to become the go-to sustainable solution for businesses producing goods transported by ships. 

Sustainable forestry practices: a key to eco packaging

Adhering to sustainable forestry practices will become a crucial aspect of sustainable production. Certification from independent, trustworthy organizations, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), ensures that packaging materials originate from responsibly managed forests.

The FSC® certification is the only ecolabel that guarantees that paper, cardboard and pulp used were harvested in a sustainable manner  – which is why we are so proud to hold an FSC Certificate.

Discover our FSC-certified packaging products now!

Recyclable packaging is the future – it’s time to embrace it!

The European Green Deal remains a work in progress, with some regulations already adopted and others currently being negotiated as we write this article. One thing is certain – it is a permanent fixture, and numerous industries, including packaging and ecommerce, will need to swiftly adapt to comply with its new, stringent standards and targets.

At FILMAR, we made the commitment to embrace sustainability long ago, and as a result, we already align with many targets proposed in the European Green Deal.

While our ultimate goal is achieving 100% recyclable packaging mailers and total climate neutrality of our operations, we are continuously striving towards that vision. In the meantime, we take pride in offering a diverse range of eco-friendly products that contribute to a healthier planet.

Explore our durable Bubble envelopes, crafted from 70% recycled materials and FSC-certified paper and our 80% recycled courier bags that not only save space and money but also help reduce emissions during transportation. Additionally, we offer 50% recycled and fully recyclable bubble film, for all the items that need that extra layer of protection. Together, these products mark our commitment to sustainable practices, bringing us all one step closer to a greener future.

Join us in creating this greener future together! Choose our certified eco-friendly mailers today and showcase your commitment to the environment:

Products

In today’s environmentally conscious world, businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, and shipping packaging is no exception. Reputable, independent certifications play a vital role in establishing credibility and assuring customers that packaging materials meet rigorous ecological and sustainability standards.

Packaging certification: promoting sustainability and quality in the shipping packaging industry

Certificates in the shipping packaging industry are awarded to companies that meet specific criteria. These can be related to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and social impact, but also to the quality of management, diversity and inclusion measures adopted within the company, financial stability, or innovativeness.

A certificate awarded by a respected, independent organization provides assurance to clients and consumers that the company’s products and practices adhere to rigorous standards, promoting transparency and trust in the industry. 

Looking beyond eco labels: certificates revealing strong management and stability

While eco labels and certifications assessing a company’s environmental and social impact have gained significant recognition in recent years, there is another valuable category of certificates. These certificates focus on management and finance, offering profound insights into a company’s operational efficiency, financial reliability, stability, and innovative practices. 

At FILMAR, we take great pride in possessing three esteemed certificates within this domain:

• ISO 9001 and ISO 14001

The certification according to the ISO 9001 quality management standard ensures our stakeholders that our company meets any relevant legal and customer-focused requirements. This certificate indicates compliance with international standards of quality management. ISO 14001 is a set of standards put forward by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Its purpose is to clarify the best practices for organizations that wish to reduce their environmental footprint by adopting an effective environmental management system (EMS).

• CWB Certificate

This certificate was awarded to us in 2016 after an evaluation of the reliability and stability of the company by the analysts of a certifying company. It is issued on the basis of an analysis of payment morality according to the International Payment Monitor, an analysis of financial ratios from the latest available financial statements and finally on the basis of Poland’s largest relational database on corporate and personal ties.

As a leading company in the field of ecological shipping packaging, we also hold multiple certifications that validate the sustainability and recyclability of our mailing envelopes. However, we also recognise how important it is to be aware of the potential threats and challenges associated with fake or self-declared certifications in the shipping packaging industry.

Choosing credible eco certifications for sustainable packaging

Ecological and environmental certifications are typically granted after a thorough auditing and verification process conducted by recognized certification bodies. To ensure that you are dealing with credible certifications, it is essential to look for certain key factors. 

First, check if the certification body is internationally recognized and accredited by reputable accreditation bodies. This ensures that the certification process follows rigorous standards and guidelines. 

Additionally, verify if the certification criteria align with internationally accepted sustainability and environmental standards. Look for transparency in the certification process, including clear documentation of the criteria and the audit methodology. 

It is also helpful to check the reputation and track record of the certification body, considering their history of impartiality and integrity. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can verify if an organization provides credible and reliable certifications. 

Ensuring credibility in eco certifications for sustainable packaging is crucial. In our industry, it extends to the importance of credible sustainable forestry certification, since sourcing virgin paper always requires the cutting down of trees, leading to deforestation. 

Certifications from reputable organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) guarantee responsible sourcing, demonstrating the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainable production.

Sustainable forestry is key to producing eco friendly shipping mailers

In the packaging business, adhering to the rules of sustainable forestry is a crucial component of sustainable production. Certification from independent, trustworthy organizations, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), ensures that packaging materials originate from responsibly managed forests. 

The FSC® certification is the only ecolabel that guarantees that paper, cardboard and pulp used were harvested in a sustainable manner  – which is why we are so proud to hold an FSC Certificate.

Alongside the FSC Certificate, we were also awarded with two other prominent ecological certificates: the Blue Angel certificate and the PRS Green Label.

• Blue Angel is one of the oldest and most recognisable ecolabels in Europe. Originally established in Germany in 1978, it has since spread throughout the western Europe and is continuously awarded to particularly environmentally friendly products and services in a given industry. The Blue Angel guarantees that a product places less burden on the environment and fulfills high standards with respect to the protection of human health – while also having the same fitness for use and quality as other, less environmentally friendly products in a given market. 
  
  
• The PRS Green Label is a certificate awarded to companies of the European polymer industry who actively work to protect the environment and participate in a circular system of controlled reuse and shared use of CP-type pallets. Circularity is an important factor in the fight against climate change and we feel grateful to be able to participate in the innovative system that the PRS has been managing for the past 20 years.

Beyond sustainable packaging certification: embracing a proactive approach

While ecolabels play an important role in identifying environmentally friendly products and practices, they are not the sole indicator of a company’s commitment to sustainability. 

At FILMAR, we believe it is vital for companies to continually measure and analyze their environmental impact, seeking opportunities to minimize their carbon footprint and resource consumption. This is why our company has been working closely with ClimatePartner, a consulting agency specializing in carbon footprints and climate action strategies. 

Together, we have been working on reducing the carbon footprint of our operations and our packaging products. We have developed methods allowing us to offer, upon request, carbon neutral packaging products and to offset the CO₂ emissions of our company.

A proactive approach allows businesses to go beyond ecolabels to identify areas for improvement, set targets for reduction, and implement strategies to enhance their sustainability performance. And choosing environmentally friendly packaging solutions is a great start to your journey towards a greener business. 

Credible eco certifications will help you gain competitive advantage on the market

By consciously selecting reputable partners offering certified packaging solutions, you can showcase your company’s commitment to sustainability and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. However, it is crucial to carefully assess the credibility and validity of the certificates and ecolabels held by companies. 

It is equally important to acknowledge that certifications alone do not fully capture a company’s environmental efforts. By harmoniously integrating certifications and proactive sustainability initiatives, companies can pave the way for a greener future while meeting the evolving expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.

Consumers now expect eco friendly shipping mailers

In today’s market, consumers increasingly favor socially responsible companies that demonstrate a commitment to the values the consumers hold close, such as commitment to the environment, supporting local communities or stopping animal cruelty, among others. 

Consumers are acutely aware of the severity of the ongoing environmental crisis: a 2021 report from Pew Research revealed that nearly three-quarters (72%) of individuals across 17 advanced economies are concerned that climate change will harm them personally at some stage in their lives. 

Meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly shipping solutions through packaging certification

This awareness underscores the growing recognition of the imminent threats posed by climate change and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions. While it was long thought that this is a fight mostly fought by the youngest generations – the Gen Z and Millennials – the latest data show that it is no longer the case.

Safeguarding your customers from greenwashing with sustainable packaging certification

It is not only consumers’ attitudes that are shifting, but their actions as well. While IBV has found that over a half of consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable brands, another study, a 2020 McKinsey US consumer sentiment survey, demonstrates that environmentally friendly packaging is one of the attributes that matter most to them. In fact, over 60 percent of respondents said they’d pay more for a product with sustainable packaging, such as eco-friendly shipping mailers.

However, as consumer awareness grows, so does their skepticism and fear of greenwashing. With countless companies promoting their green products, the question arises: are these claims always truly indicative of sustainability?

Consumers don’t want to be fooled: 70 percent of respondents said they would change their shopping habits if they discovered that a store or brand wasn’t operating sustainably (in a 2022 survey conducted by Sensormatic Solutions). This newfound consumer discernment highlights the increasing demand for transparency and credibility when it comes to environmental claims made by businesses.

The use of sustainable, certified packaging can create a positive brand image that resonates with eco-conscious consumers. By opting for certified eco-friendly shipping mailers, such as our Classic Bubble Envelopes or Extra Strong Bubble Envelopes, both crafted from FSC-certified paper, you will attract discerning consumers who prioritize sustainable practices. 

We also have the perfect budget friendly solution for shipping clothing items and footwear: our eco friendly poly mailers Co-Ex Filbags are made from 80% recycled plastic.

With our Classic Bubble Envelopes, we take it a step further than most packaging companies by only using 100% recycled paper fiber. Moreover, our dedication to the environment extends beyond the initial use, as both products are fully recyclable, ensuring a closed-loop system for our shipping materials.

Reinforce your position as an eco-friendly industry leader with custom shipping mailers

At FILMAR, we understand the importance of tailoring our recycled paper shipping mailers to meet your specific needs. With our custom shipping mailers, you have the opportunity to build a strong brand identity at a low cost. By showcasing your brand’s logo, colors, and other visual elements on your shipping packaging alongside our eco certifications, you not only increase brand recognition but also establish a clear message of your commitment to sustainability.

Integrating eco certifications and ecolabels: a visual testament to sustainability

By strategically integrating eco labels and certification logos alongside your logo and other elements of your company’s visual identity on the packaging, you make it easier for customers to identify your commitment to sustainability at a glance. 

This approach will help you attract like-minded consumers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices and will set you apart from competitors, positioning your business as a go-to green choice in a crowded market. It also strengthens your customers’ trust in your brand and increases the likelihood of word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat purchases.

Choosing shipping packaging with sustainable packaging certification automatically positions your business as a trusted and environmentally conscious brand. With our custom shipping mailers, you have the opportunity to showcase our certifications, further reinforcing your commitment to a sustainable future.

Eco friendly shipping mailers: good for the environment and for your business!

In today’s eco-conscious world, shipping packaging certifications play a crucial role in establishing trust, credibility, and differentiation in the industry. Independent certifications validate responsible sourcing and sustainable production. By selecting reputable, eco-friendly partners for their shipping packaging needs, businesses can attract environmentally conscious consumers and reinforce their brand image. 

Data clearly shows that retailers and brands who promote their sustainability efforts are finding it not only good for the environment, but good for business as well.

As a leader in ecological shipping packaging, our company recognizes the importance of holding eco certifications that validate the sustainable and recyclable nature of our products. We are proud to offer protective bubble envelopes, padded shipping envelopes and Co-Ex Filbags – eco friendly poly mailers, all crafted to meet the highest ecological and ethical standards of the Forest Stewardship Council, the Blue Angel, the PRS Green Label and the Climate Partner, providing businesses with sustainable packaging solutions that align with their goals.

Join us in creating a greener future together! Choose our certified eco-friendly mailers today and showcase your commitment to the environment:

Products

The book and electronic industries have seen significant changes as a result of the growth of e-commerce, with an important amount of revenue coming now from online sales. In this context, packing and shipping became important aspects of business logistics. Moreover, packaging is often the only point of physical contact with customers. With the ever-rising cost of operations and the urge to switch to more sustainable practices, companies must now find shipping packaging solutions which are both cost-effective and eco-friendly. Discover how to combine these two in this article…

E-commerce of books and electronics, what to be aware of?

The COVID pandemic has shifted the market of books and electronics online, and it’s important for companies to stay competitive and answer customer needs.

Finding the cheapest ways to ship books and electronics with the growing market

In 2023 alone, the global print book industry has generated an astonishing $64.35 billion in revenue, with a significant part portion coming from online sales. Online channels have contributed to 25% of the overall revenue, or approximately $16.1 billion. The rise in online book purchasing can be attributed to the rapid growth of e-commerce that provides customers with a hassle-free experience.

Moreover, the pandemic has played an important role in accelerating the shift to online shopping, as more and more people have grown used to the comforts of shopping from their homes. New competitors have also entered the market, with giants like Amazon, eBay, Allegro or Alibaba group, now selling books and electronics in large quantities. Experts forecast the e-commerce market growth will not slow down in the upcoming years.

According to a report by ReportLinker, the electronics goods market has experienced an even more impressive development trajectory, with revenue reaching $539.46 billion in 2022. The business is anticipated to expand even further and surpass $614 billion in 2023.

Retailers must keep up with the pace to maintain their place on the market, given these two industries’ rapid expansion. To keep up with the rising demand, they must develop ways to improve their supply chain and operations. To maintain current customers and attract new ones, businesses must also concentrate on improving the customer experience by making sure every detail, including shipping, is perfect.

Packaging for mailing books/electronics safely

As Salecycle estimates, the average return rate of e-commerce products is 20% and closer to 30% during holiday period, while it is much lower for brick-and-mortar stores, that report an average of ~10% returns.

Research indicates that electronics are among the top three most returned goods. Although there may be a number of reasons for a return, up to 80% of those surveyed put “damaged product” in their top 3 reasons, according to a 2020 study from Salecycle.

Businesses can reduce the risk of product damage and lower the number of returns they receive by paying special attention to the shipping packaging they use. Your products must be protected from mechanical damage and weather conditions throughout the whole transit. 

In the long term, damage in transit can actually cost your business more than you’d expect. In addition to the cost of replacing the product and returning the shipment, damaged products can make you lose sales, customers and usually comes with additional administrative and logistics costs.

In order to ensure customer satisfaction, it is crucial to pay attention to the quality of the shipping packaging solution your business uses. Low quality packaging can adversely affect your image and reputation as a reliable business.

Customers value eco-friendly mailing envelopes

The amount of electronic and electrical equipment waste produced in Europe each year, as well as the impact shipping has on the environment, have grown to be major concerns that call for collective response.

Eco-friendly shipping options affect purchase decision

The European Environment Agency (EEA) has reported that Europe alone generates more than 10 million tonnes of electronic and electrical equipment waste annually. These are alarming numbers, especially if you also consider how shipping itself affects the environment. In fact, 37% of the global greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to shipping and return of goods, according to Statista. These concerning data show how urgently coordinated measures that reduce the impact of waste and shipping on the environment have to be taken.

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing trend towards eco-friendly purchasing decisions. A study conducted by Sendcloud found that more than half (52%) of European consumers actively seek to purchase from online stores that take active measures to lower the environmental impact of their delivery practices. This demonstrates that businesses which prioritize sustainable practices in their operations are likely to attract more customers who share the same values.

Recycled mailing envelopes are in high-demand among customers

Trivium Packaging conducted a survey around consumers’ behavior towards sustainable packaging, which shows that:

• 67% of consumers find it important that the products they buy are in recyclable packaging;
• 57% of consumers are less likely to buy products in packaging that is harmful to the environment;
• 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly packaging.

To stay competitive on the market, businesses should meet consumers’ needs and switch to more sustainable shipping solutions – ideally, ones that are both eco-friendly and able to protect goods during handling and shipment.

Eco-friendly shipping envelopes must be certified

At FILMAR, we have invested in modern technologies to develop high-quality shipping packaging solutions that are not only recyclable, but also made from recycled materials (plastic or paper) – all without negatively affecting their protective properties and durability. 

When choosing a shipping solution, businesses should also pay extra attention to labels and certifications issued by independent organizations. This is especially true for virgin paper and cardboard packaging, which always requires the cutting down of trees, leading to deforestation. 

The FSC® certification is the only ecolabel that guarantees that paper, cardboard and pulp used were harvested in a sustainable manner. It is issued by The Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC®), an independent and internationally recognized non-profit organization, that certifies well-managed, sustainable forest operations.
To reduce the negative effects paper packaging has on our forests, FILMAR offers two products made of FSC-certified paper: Classic Bubble Envelopes and Extra Strong Bubble Envelopes. 100% of the paper fiber we use to produce Classic Bubble envelopes comes from recycling. Additionally, both products are fully recyclable after use, ensuring that all shipping materials we use stay in the loop.

Choosing mailing envelopes over boxes help reduce costs

According to PwC’s June 2021 Global Consumer Insights Pulse Survey, 54% of consumers prefer products with eco-friendly packaging or little packaging. This shows that customers are growing more aware and concerned about the strain over-packing puts on the environment.

Avoid over-packing with perfectly fitted shipping mailers

When shipping goods packed in boxes, companies usually have to resort to using additional fillers like shredded cardboard, air pillows or even partition dividers.

Void fillers protect goods against damage during handling and transport, as they help items stay in place despite the constant vibrations of road and air travel. 

It is a misconception to think that fillers are only needed when shipping fragile goods. As already discussed, the percentage of  returns caused byproduct damage is relatively high in e-commerce. Seeing as cardboard boxes are only available in a limited range of options adequate for small and medium-sized items, fillers almost always become necessary.

Resorting to fillers not only adds to your business’ carbon footprint, but also increases your overall shipping costs. This is why at FILMAR we encourage companies to opt for mailers that match the size of their products.

FILMAR offers bubble envelopes and f in a variety of sizes, ranging from 120x175mm to 370x480mm. They come in 11 standard sizes, and non-standard sizes are available upon request.

Shipping mailers help companies reduce costs of shipping and storing

Bubble mailers can be a smart choice for e-commerce companies looking to save money on shipping. Mailers are the perfect alternative to boxes, and with their lightweight design and flat shape, they will likely allow your business to cut transport expenses. 

Another factor that can significantly affect shipping costs is the so-called ‘dimensional weight’ of the package, a pricing technique used by courier and postal services to calculate the shipment’s cost. If you are shipping a light item packed in a big box, you will likely be charged more than if it was packed in a mailer, because a bigger box takes up more space in the delivery truck. This is why it is in your best interest to keep your package as little as possible and to use well-fitting packaging solutions, such as bubble or foam mailers.

Mailers will not only reduce your shipping costs, but also help you free up storage space. Mailers are more compact than corrugated boxes, allowing for the storage and organization of more products in a smaller space.

Additionally, you can save money with mailers when preparing orders. Unlike boxes, envelopes don’t need to be assembled, and most of the time no fillers are needed, so more orders can be processed in less time and with fewer personnel and equipment.

All of these factors make shipping mailers an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional corrugated boxes – perfect for all e-commerce companies looking to reduce shipping costs and increase efficiency!

Reinforce your brand identity with shipping mailers

The utility of e-commerce packaging does not have to be limited to containing and protecting goods. It is also an affordable way to spread brand awareness among new customers.

Custom bubble mailers with logo will leave a lasting impression on your customers

Studies show that 70% of consumers form their impression of a brand solely based on its packaging. Moreover,  an astounding 55% of online shoppers have admitted they are more willing to buy again from a specific online store if their first purchase arrived in a customized packaging.

FILMAR shipping mailers offer a variety of personalization options to tailor to your items and business! 

There are a lot of reasons why customized shipping packaging is a great, low cost way to build your brand identity:  

• Brand Awareness: by showcasing your brand’s logo, colors, and other elements of your visual identity on your shipping packaging, you increase your brand recognition which leads to reinforcing brand awareness and fostering customer loyalty. To put it simply, thanks to customized packaging, clients will be that much more likely to remember your company! 

• Professionalism: with customized packaging that fits your items and conveys your brand’s identity, you show the customer a polished and professional image of your brand, and leave them confident that you are committed to making sure everything is on point – including the shipping packaging.

• Standing out: brands can differentiate themselves from competitors in a crowded market by using customized packaging. This can be accomplished by using distinctive packaging designs that express the brand’s character, principles, or mission.

And if you decide to go for eco-friendly shipping packaging because it aligns with your values, you will also send a message! Your customers will know that you truly care  about the impact your business has on the environment.

Bubble wrap envelopes are durable solutions for shipping books and electronics

One of the main advantages of bubble package envelopes are their good aesthetics – the packaging looks natural, with many printing options available. They are also durable, with extra protection coming from high-quality multi-layer LDPE bubble wrap that protects the parcel from mechanical damage and humidity. Our envelopes were also equipped with strong welds on the edges for additional stiffness.

After use, the plastic wrap of our bubble envelopes can be separated from the paper part of the envelope. After its separation from the envelope, the plastic part can be recycled. The paper is made of 100% recycled paper fiber and our high-quality bubble plastic film – min. 40%. The paper can be recycled with paper waste, while smaller bubble envelopes can be disposed of in a plastic recycling container or in a plastics recycling drop-off site. 

In addition to being an eco-friendly shipping packaging solution for companies, FILMAR padded envelopes guarantee secure shipment of your products. FILMAR bubble envelopes are fitted with a strong adhesive glued strap for effective closure. The Trifix closure system (firm closure, opening for clamps and transparent strap) allows for  re-opening and closing of the envelope. Bubble package envelopes are also equipped with openings for clamps or reseal strap for multiple-closing of bubble envelopes, which can be useful for purchase return. 

Another popular packaging solution for shipping books and electronics are Foam Envelopes. Our foam envelopes are a great alternative to bubble envelopes, as they can protect even the most delicate items during shipping. They are also available in 11 different sizes with anti-static film, and original or recycled plastic foam. 

FILMAR bubble paper envelopes and foam mailers provide the optimal shipping solution for books and electronics. These mailers offer enhanced protection for delicate items, in addition to being lightweight and perfectly matching the size of your products, which helps reduce handling and delivery costs. FILMAR mailers are available with different customizing options, allowing companies to express their brand identity and improve client experience.

Additionally, our recycled, FSC-certified envelopes help companies reduce the environmental impact of their packaging while meeting customer expectations for more sustainable consumption practices.

If you are looking for a cost-effective, customized, and sustainable solution for shipping books and electronics, check our offer of high-quality shipping mailers now:

Shipping packaging

In 2021, over 159 billion packages were sent worldwide, and those numbers are to grow by 10% each year. Mailers and boxes are both excellent choices when it comes to shipping products – they are very reliable and affordable. However, they have different strengths and limitations, which means one may work better than the other in a specific situation. If you want to find out which one is best for your business and products, this article will help you make the right choice.

Source: Parcel shipping volume worldwide | Statista

The e-commerce industry needs to align with market demand and consumer needs

International package shipping volume grows by 20% each year

In 2021, the volume of worldwide shipping in 13 major markets reached 159 billion parcels, which represents a new world record increase of 21% YOY. The global parcel revenue increased by 17% to over $491bn. (See: Global shipping volume to reach 200 billion parcels by 2025). Global parcel volume will most likely reach 256 billion by 2027, according to data released by Pitney Bowes Inc. That would represent an 8.5% cumulative annual growth rate from 2022-2027.

Source: Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index

With such a large volume of shipments, the search for more sustainable packaging for shipping and more budget-friendly solutions is becoming crucial. With the current unstable situation on the market, many ecommerce companies are looking for ways to cut costs and, as it turns out, changing your packaging method can make a world of difference.

In 2020, the amount of packaging waste that was generated was estimated at 177.2 kg per inhabitant in the EU (varying from 66.0 kg in Croatia, to 225.8 kg in Germany). From 2009 to 2020, paper and cardboard were the main packaging waste material in the EU (32.7 million tonnes in 2020), followed by plastic (15.5 million tonnes) and glass (15.1 million tonnes). 

When around 35 kg of plastic packaging waste is generated in the EU per capita, only close to 15 of it is recycled. This means that more than 40% still ends up in landfills or polluting our environment. (See: Ecommerce mailers: is recycled plastic a good choice?) 

Sustainable ecommerce packaging is the way to go

Over the last decade, a rising number of customers have become aware of the impact of their consumption on our environment and are now trying to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.

Many customers are drastically altering their buying habits at all levels, as we as a society become more conscious of environmental challenges. This extends to worrying about the shipping packing that their online items are delivered in!

In fact, a 2021 consumer survey from Trivium Packaging highlighted the fact that 57% of consumers are less likely to purchase products in environmentally hazardous packaging. In addition, 52% of them look for information on the recyclability or sustainability of the packaging! (See our other article: Shipping packages: what are consumers’ expectations in 2023 for ecommerce packaging?)

Source: Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index

Mailer is the most eco-friendly ecommerce packaging solution

What types of mailers are available on the market?

→ Poly mailers are best for non-fragile products

One of the most common eco-friendly ecommerce packaging practice is the use of poly mailers made of recycled plastic. These lightweight and inexpensive shipping bags are also  known as plastic shipping bags, shipping mailers, or plastic mailing bags.

Poly mailers are self-closing, pliable polyethylene envelopes that work best for packing non-fragile products like clothing, footwear items, electronics, accessories, books, cosmetics, etc. (See: How to package clothes for shipping the cheapest way?) These shipping bags are small, affordable, lightweight, easy to seal and can be readily embellished with stamps and labels. 

If composed of recycled materials, like our Co-Ex Filbags, they help save energy and resources that would have been used to produce virgin shipping packaging, and enable plastic waste to stay in the recycling loop. 

Poly mailers made of recycled materials are thus the perfect option for ecommerce businesses looking for robust, high-quality, adaptable, and eco-friendly ecommerce packaging.

→ Use FSC-certified bubble mailers with recycled paper fibers for fragile items

Bubble padded envelopes are best for the safe shipment of small and medium-sized items. These shipping mailers are made of prime quality non-transparent paper and multi-layer LDPE bubble wrap that protect the parcel from damage and humidity. After its separation from the envelope, the wrap can undergo a recycling process.

Like any other paper or cardboard-based shipping packaging, you have to make sure that the pulp used during manufacturing comes from sustainable sources. That is why we recommend looking exclusively for FSC-certified bubble envelopes. 

At FILMAR we produce high-quality bubble envelopes which are not only recyclable, and FSC-certified, but also made of 100% recycled fiber and 40% recycled plastic film. Choosing shipping packaging made of recycled materials is a guarantee that packaging waste stays in the recycling loop. 

Bubble mailers made of recycled materials are the most cost-effective way to ship small, delicate objects such as fragile books, jewelry, and small electronic equipment. 

Poly mailers are a low cost and easy-to-use ecommerce packaging solution

→ Low cost

Poly mailers made of recycled plastic are a low-cost and environmentally friendly way to package and ship products for online retailers  (see: Ecommerce mailers: is recycled plastic a good choice?). They also help you save money and materials by reducing the need for void filling solutions in the parcel.

→ Productivity

Mailers boost production by reducing the need for labor. In contrast to other packaging materials, shipping mailers call for a two-step packaging procedure: packing the object and sealing it. This saves time and enhances volume output.

→ Moisture resistance

Shipping mailers can withstand water. Their resistance to moisture aids in preventing product deterioration.

→ Adhesive strength

Poly mailers come with a sturdy self-sealing adhesive. It helps to secure products during transit by ensuring nothing falls out. Some poly mailers are also tamper-resistant, which means that they cannot be opened and resealed without leaving some proof of it.

→ Compactness and lightweightness

Empty envelopes require less storage space because they are flat and lightweight. Additionally, they require less material to make and occupy less space during transport, so they cost less to ship! (See: Why use recycled shipping packaging?) 

→ Eco-friendliness

Recycled plastic mailers are an eco-friendly budget product which is perfect for sending clothing or footwear items. These shipping bags are made from the best quality recycled materials and are fully recyclable after use. They have been recognized as an eco-friendly product by the Blue Angel environmental label that is awarded to particularly environmentally friendly products and services. (See: Poly mailer CO-EX FILBAG) 

→ Air cushioning

The bubble padded envelopes will shield delicate goods from impact damage. They are therefore perfect for glass objects and other materials that are prone to breaking or scratching. 

A great alternative to air-padded envelopes are foam envelopes. They are perfect for protecting delicate items such as CDs/DVDs, photos, albums, lacquered products and electronics.  

→ Customized shipping bags with logo will help you build your brand image

Custom printed poly mailers can be  branded to include statements, graphic elements, and colors. Customized shipping bags with logo are an excellent tool for building your brand image. Anyone who handles the product, like delivery couriers, postal employees, and your client, will notice a lovely, custom-made poly shipping bag. 

Mailers are the best ecommerce packaging for the shipping of small and medium size items

→ Shipping small items

Mailers allow you to ship products without additional packing materials, because there is almost no empty space to fill in comparison to shipping in a cardboard box. Mailers come in various sizes – standard and custom – and they are best for postal delivery. Paper mailers with bubble wrap are best for flat products that need protection against physical damage because they are lacquered or have screens (phones, tablets, etc.), while poly mailers are best for oddly shaped items such as clothing, footwear or electronics.

→ What size of mailer should I use?

It depends on your product whether you need a small or large shipping mailer. FILMAR offers Poly mailers in 9 standard sizes and 2 thickness variants. Customized sizes, branding solutions and special overprints are also available. 

→ How many shipping mailers do I need?

Analyze your ordering patterns and do the math to ensure that you order enough shipping bags to last at least two months between orders. Although you don’t want to spend a lot up front, you want to retain enough inventory on hand. Look into getting a program that keeps track of all of your orders and inventory, and notifies you when you need more.

Corrugated boxes are more durable than cardboard boxes

What types of shipping boxes are available on the market?

Corrugated boxes are made of rigid paper with several air columns inside. The columns give the paper more resilience compared to typical cardboard, and offer an air cushion for any objects inside. The ridges provide strength and flexibility. 

Heavy paper pulp or thick paper stock are used to make cardboard cartons. Little containers, product packaging, structural support for less rigid things like notepads, inserts that prevent clothing items like button-up shirts from losing shape in their packaging, and other products are made from this material. 

Cardboard containers can be used to ship goods, but doing so poses a danger to merchants because the material offers minimal protection and necessitates the use of additional materials, like bubble wrap, to guarantee the safety of the goods inside.

Instead of being constructed from a single sheet of material, corrugated boxes have multiple layers. The three layers consist of an internal liner, an exterior liner, and a fluted medium between the two. A crucial factor for companies who send a sizable quantity of goods is the durability and light weight of corrugated boxes. Even when exposed to shocks, wetness, and abrupt temperature fluctuations, these containers will not break.

Boxes are sturdy, but not always eco-friendly

→ Strength

Compared to regular cardboard, corrugated boxes are more durable. For handling and transportation, they will provide every item they carry a strong padding. Additionally, they are made to keep moisture and germs from contaminating the things within, which is crucial for food items that must undergo protracted transportation durations. 

On the other hand, corrugated boxes can be smashed down and damaged during handling and transport. Also, it is important with corrugated boxes to add filling (air pillows, bubble wrap) to make sure the items do not move in the parcel and will not absorb shocks. 

→ Custom branding

To strengthen your brand and raise brand recognition, you can add branding statements to your corrugated packaging materials. However, the possibilities are limited in terms of colors and design because the colors on cardboard tend to come out less bright than on plastic or on paper.

Pre-printing and direct printing are the two primary techniques for printing on corrugated boxes. Printing directly onto the box is referred to as direct printing. The most typical method of printing on corrugated boxes is flexography or digital printing. Pre-printing is the process of initially printing on a piece of paper before adhering it to the corrugated box. Both methods are used depending on the company’s needs. 

→ Eco-friendliness

We frequently make the mistake of believing that because cardboard boxes are composed of natural and biodegradable materials, we should choose them over bubble mailers and plastic shipping bags. Yet in practice, shipping packing made of cardboard and paper isn’t necessarily the most environmentally friendly choice for your company.

A recent survey found that 52% of all Europeans believe cardboard to be the most environmentally friendly shipping material. However, the Northern Ireland Assembly found that the production of plastic bags requires four times less water than that of paper bags (See: Ecommerce mailers: is recycled plastic a good choice?). 

Not all paper products are eco-friendly by nature. When choosing a shipping packaging solution, it is important to look for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, which is an international non-profit organization that promotes responsible management of the world’s forests via timber certification. Only the FSC certification ensures that the pulp, paper and cardboard used in the packaging come from responsibly managed forests. 

Boxes are best for shipping large items

→ Shipping large items

You might have to use a shipping box for your products due to the weight limitations of mailers. Although weight affects transportation costs, protecting your goods is of utmost importance. Your shipping boxes must be built with more sturdiness, the heavier your products are. For heavy shipments, it is worthwhile to increase your budget in order to get the right design and materials. While transporting your goods, it’s critical to utilize the proper size box.

→ What size of boxes should I use?

Measure the item’s length and width on each side to estimate the size of the box you will need. Then double these sums by 2 after adding them all together (for a total of 4 measurements). You will then have the bare minimum internal measurements required for your shipper box.

→ How many boxes do I need?

You should always have enough boxes on hand to distribute merchandise to customers for two to three months. You might need to make an investment in storage if you don’t already have a place to keep the shipping boxes.

5 reasons why you should choose mailers for e-commerce shipping

The materials needed are the primary distinction. Mail bags for shipping require far less paper and glue than corrugated boxes. If they offer sufficient protection, plastic shipping bags are a more eco-friendly ecommerce packaging option than corrugated boxes. (See: Ecommerce mailers: is recycled plastic a good choice?) 

The choice of a packaging solution has an impact on postal costs as well; whether it is a domestic or an international package shipping, corrugated packaging will cost you more to mail than custom shipping bags of a comparable size.

• Spend less on shipping. Mailers are smaller and lighter than boxes, which considerably reduces DIM weights. When you add up the cost reductions from hundreds or thousands of shipments, mailers significantly reduce shipping costs.

• Lower carbon footprint. Although corrugated boxes may initially appear to be more environmentally friendly than poly mailers, the facts reveal otherwise. Compared to poly mailers, corrugated boxes produce 13 times as much solid waste, 106 times as much CO2, and 19 times as much energy. You can recycle them more than you might imagine. Some people claim that because corrugated boxes are recyclable, they prefer them to poly mailers. However, there are several drop-off locations worldwide where poly mailers can be recycled.

• Reduce time and effort spent packing. Corrugated boxes take longer to handle and pack than poly mailers. The typical worker can pack 30 to 50 boxes each hour, but they can also pack 60 to 90 poly mailers in the same period. Utilizing poly mailers further boosts efficiency by 20%!

• Boost client satisfaction. You shouldn’t have your consumers deal with awkward piles of unused cardboard or pay for shipping tape to package an item for a return. The simplicity and low weight of mailers make them appealing. They are simple to open and, if they have dual peel-and-seal seals, they can be easily resealed and used again.

If you are looking for the most eco-friendly ecommerce packaging solution that allows you to easily pack most items and guarantees low cost, then the choice is simple – mailers are the way to go. Poly mailers and bubble mailers reduce dimensional weight for shipments and waste potential, improve throughput and reduce carbon footprint.

Discover our ecological poly mailers now:

Co-ex filbags

Check our FSC-certified bubble mailers:

Classic bubble envelopes

In recent years, consumers have become more and more demanding in terms of shipping packaging solutions. And in a context where ecommerce is growing, this makes finding the right shipping option more difficult, as there is no room for improvisation. So, in order to take the upper hand, what are the packaging preferences of consumers that you can capitalize on?

Shoppers want safe ecommerce packaging

The main function of a shipping package is to deliver the items it contains undamaged to the buyer. Therefore, it has to be strong and secure.

Ecommerce packages have to keep goods safe from weather and mechanical damages

When a customer orders something online, their first expectation is of course to receive their item in good condition.

Unfortunately, in transit, a lot of problems can occur to parcels, many of them being mechanical and weather-related. And they are fairly frequent, as 30% of items are returned because they arrived faulty or damaged.

Although you cannot control how your transporter will handle your shipment, and even less the weather conditions in which it will transit, you can however make efforts to protect your items by:

• Picking the right packaging materials according to what the shipped item is most vulnerable to. For example, recycled plastic mailers will be best for water-sensitive items.
• Using sustainable bubble wrap to avoid any empty space in the parcel, and thus, any movement that may cause the products to be damaged.
• Customizing your packaging to make its handling easier, by for example adding additional handles to it.

Ecommerce packaging solutions need to protect items from theft

Theft is another major threat that affects packages, as according to the 2022 Global Parcel Theft Report from Penn Elcom, globally, close to one in ten people have stated that they had at least one parcel lost or stolen over a 12-month period.

These thefts can occur at your doorstep and in your mailbox, but it is also not rare that they also happen during transit! And this is why you need to take the right precautions to prevent them.

As far as packaging is concerned, you can equip your solution with an effective closure system that either makes it hard for potential robbers to open your parcel, or that gives them no possibilities to open it without it being noticed.

Some shipping bags thankfully offer this possibility, like our CO-EX Filbags, which are fitted with a strong self-adhesive glued strap for an effective closure that makes it impossible to open the parcel without damage.

Consumers look for eco-friendly envelopes and shipping bags

This past decade, a growing number of consumers have become aware of the threats that our environment is facing and are now making sustainability in shipping a priority.

Consumers now prioritize recycled envelopes

As we are collectively getting more aware of environmental issues, a lot of consumers are making drastic changes in their consumption habits at all levels. And this includes caring about what kind of shipping packaging their online orders arrive in!

Source: https://www.triviumpackaging.com/media/zvthtp1t/2021buyinggreenreport.pdf

In fact, a 2021 consumer survey from Trivium Packaging has found that not only 52% of consumers do look for information on the recyclability or sustainability of the packaging, but also 57% of them are less likely to buy products in packaging that is harmful to the environment!

Indeed, online shoppers now expect brands to propose more eco-friendly shipping envelopes, which implies giving up all solutions that rely on single-use plastic or virgin paper, and instead choose partially or 100% recycled materials.

What option should you go for, then? Even though brown envelopes and boxes are indeed recyclable, they are not the best option, mainly because their manufacturing is energy and resource-greedy. 

Instead, we advise you to go for recycled poly mailers, which not only can be fully recyclable and reused, but also contain high-quality recycled materials which require less energy during manufacturing.

Your clients prefer recyclable poly mailers

Going hand-in-hand with packaging which is made from recycled materials, consumers also are in demand of solutions which are recyclable, and especially when it comes to plastics.

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/-/ddn-20221020-1

As reported by Eurostat, in 2020, each person living in the EU generated 34.6 kg of plastic packaging waste on average. And out of these, only 38% were recycled.

This inefficiency in recycling packaging is quite obviously one that consumers want to solve! As a 2021 study that surveyed consumers across the globe shows, the share of people who would like to recycle more amounts to 76%, with packaging being one of their top priorities.

Taking into consideration these numbers, proposing recyclable envelopes will have 3 main effects on your business and on the quality of your services:

• First, this will allow you to attract new customers and retain the ones you already have by aligning with their demands. 
• Secondly, it will help you build an eco-friendly reputation for your business. 
• And finally, it will also help reduce the carbon footprint of your company!

Shoppers pay more attention to eco poly mailers with certifications

As consumers’ awareness towards sustainable development grows, so does their need for transparency and clarity when it comes to so-called “sustainable” manufacturing. 

Certified envelopes have a greater effect on shoppers

Online shoppers are willing to change their habits for more sustainability, but not under any conditions. 

According to a study led by IBM, 71% of consumers consider providing full transparency to be a key attribute for a brand. So in order for them to believe your efforts, you need to give them the assurance that what you promise is real. 

You can of course provide them with the relevant information directly on your website, but you can also add them directly on your packaging for more impact upon receipt.

A variety of information can appear on your shipping packaging to let your customers know exactly how they can help them protect the planet. 

On FILMAR envelopes you will find:

• certifications of origin such as the FSC label which attests to the responsible harvesting of the pulp used, 
• environmental labels like the Blue Angel Certificate which is awarded to the most ecological products, 
• pictograms which represent the percentage of recycled materials used, or the process to follow to recycle it.

All three types of labels help our consumers easily recognize the environmental attributes of our various products and the different certifications they have received.

Gen Z shoppers are especially cautious to ethical matters

While the need for transparency spans all ages, it is a phenomenon that particularly affects younger generations, and more specifically, Gen Z. 

Not only are they the biggest online shoppers, but they also are some of the most value-driven customers!

When making the decision to purchase or not an article, there are a lot of factors that millennials consider that go beyond price and efficiency. In fact, they may care just as much about the values of the brand itself.

When a company fails to make any efforts to be more transparent, these clients will not hesitate to turn to a competitor even though they are satisfied with their services. Data even shows that 22% of Gen Z consumers think that a lack of transparency reduces their opinion of brands and products, more than any other generation.

So ultimately, being transparent about how and with what your packaging solution is manufactured will contribute in building their loyalty.

Offering convenient shipping mailers is key

Designing your shipping package to be user-friendly and functional can go a long way in scoring points with your customers.

Adding an easy-returns solution to your eco envelopes is a plus

When choosing a shipping packaging solution to send your items in, you have to think about the comfort of your clients. And this includes providing an easy-return solution.

Source: https://www.ups.com/media/en/returns_forrester.pdf
https://www.invespcro.com/blog/ecommerce-product-return-rate-statistics/

According to a study from Forrester Consulting and UPS, 81% of all online shoppers want to be offered an easy way to return the products they ordered. And in fact, other data even suggests that 92% of customers will come back to buy again if returns are made easy by a company!

In other words, by providing an easy return solution to your clients, you not only are showing them that you care about their shopping experience, but you also make their overall satisfaction higher.

Luckily, custom shipping bags can easily integrate such features, by simply adding a special resealable adhesive strip like it is possible with our Co-Ex Filbags.

Consumers are committed to avoiding over-packaging with eco-friendly poly mailers 

An increasingly large portion of shoppers are turning away from packaging solutions which forces them to throw away a lot of materials. And this aversion is justified, as in 2020, in the EU alone, 177.2 kg of packaging waste was generated per inhabitant!

This shift in preference represents a challenge for companies as they now not only must find a way to ship their goods safely, but also have to do so without using too many packaging materials like bubble wrap, styrofoam peanuts or air cushions. 

At FILMAR, we have the answer: depending on your needs, you can either opt for one of our sustainable Extra strong bubble mailers which have a layer of paper and bubble plastic, or make your shipping packaging even safer with our recycled plastic bubble film!

Consumers expect poly mailers to be customized

In a competitive ecommerce market, transporting goods safely doesn’t suffice anymore: consumers now expect packaging to be personalized.

Poly shipping bags should look professional

Online stores that ship goods are also judged for each effort they provide. And for that, they have to take attentive care of their shipping packaging solution!

Now that online shopping has become a common practice, it is no longer enough for packaging to carry your customers’ items safely and efficiently for them to be satisfied with it. Nowadays, you also have to pay close attention to the aesthetic of your shipping packaging, as it now plays a big role as well.

In fact, a study has found that as much as 63% of consumers agree that packaging is as important as the brand itself, which makes eye-catching shipping packaging solutions very powerful tools to attract and retain customers.

To make your packaging catch the attention of your clients, a lot of options are available to you. For example, our highly customizable Co-Ex Filbags allow you among other things to pick a custom color and material, to add features to enhance its practicality, or even to choose a personalized overprint!

Custom shipping bags need to convey a message

It may not be obvious, but shipping packaging is an integral part of a brand’s promotion, as it can help you connect with your customers by conveying to them what your company stands for.

This is even more true when sustainability is one of them, as you can easily communicate your will to protect the environment through your choice of packaging itself. For instance, if you decide to propose to your customers some recyclable and recycled packaging, you will create a long-lasting effect on them. 

According to the study that was previously mentioned, 70% of consumers have stated that they form their impression of a brand based solely on packaging. This shows that if you neglect it, you are essentially missing an opportunity to easily seduce close to 3/4th of consumers! 

Aside from the obvious security and solidity factors that once were enough to satisfy online shoppers, the boom of ecommerce and the raising of awareness for environmental issues have made surface new requirements in terms of shipping packaging for consumers. 

Not only do they now expect companies to put effort into the aesthetics of their solutions, but they also want them to pay close attention to their impact on the planet! 

Keeping your final consumers’ expectations in mind will help you choose the best packaging for your brand. It will not only show that you care about your clients, but also that you are a modern and responsible company which proposes concrete solutions to today’s shopping challenges. 

Discover our ecological shipping and courier packaging now:

Products

Like any ecommerce company, your goal is to keep your costs to a minimum, while providing the best service possible. And if shipping clothes is part of your business, this is even more true, as you need to keep up with a large amount of orders and returns. Fortunately, there is a packaging solution which combines safety, customizability, and cost-savings: shipping bags.

More and more consumers choose to shop clothes online

In recent years, a shift has been happening in the world of commerce and consumers have started gravitating more towards online shopping.

As the demand for fashion shipping increases, finding the cheapest way to ship clothes is crucial

In 2020, the ecommerce revenue generated by the fashion industry in Europe was estimated to be $130.45​ billion according to the Fashion eCommerce report of 2021 led by Statista​. And between 2020 and 2025, this total revenue is forecasted to grow by 35.3% to reach $176.45 billion.

Source: https://commonthreadco.com/blogs/coachs-corner/fashion-ecommerce-industry-trends#fashion-ecommerce-trend-market

These numbers do not lie: more and more customers prefer purchasing clothes online, making the online share of the Fashion Market grow from 14% in 2017, to 23% in 2022.

For web fashion retailers, this predicts a bright future, but also presents a growing challenge, as their need for affordable and efficient ecommerce packaging solutions increases. And for smaller businesses for whom margins are crucial, this can be even more decisive.

Free delivery for clothes shopping matters more to consumers than fast delivery

Even though fast delivery remains a key aspect for consumers in their decision to order fashion items from an online shop, their priority is usually not set on finding clothing websites with fast shipping.

Source: https://cdn.shopify.com/static/future-of-commerce/Shopify%2520Future%2520of%2520Commerce%25202021.pdf

Indeed, a study from Shopify revealed that 59% of online shoppers consider free shipping to be a key advantage for their online shopping experience, while only 34% think the same about fast delivery.

Considering these results and setting the security of goods aside, the number one focus of online fashion retailers when it comes to shipping should be to find packaging for mailing clothes which is budget-friendly.

Packaging for clothing shipping should be sustainable

Before looking for an affordable shipping solution, it is important to understand that in 2022, sustainable shipping packaging is the only way to go.

Fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world

The manufacturing of clothing articles is extremely polluting and resource-demanding. In fact, according to the United Nation Environment Programme, the fashion industry is responsible for up to 8% of humanity’s carbon emissions, which is more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined.

And if the sector continues on this trajectory, it was estimated that that share could jump to 26% by 2050. And we can believe it will, as the situation is being further aggravated by the fast fashion phenomenon.

On top of that, the shipping of online articles itself can be very detrimental to the environment depending on which packaging materials are used. It was for example found that 3 billion trees are pulped yearly to produce 241 million tons of shipping cartons, generating the equivalent in CO2 to what is produced by 250,000,000 cars each year.

Recycled plastic mailers are a cheap way to ship sustainably

Plastic mailers are usually the most cost-effective option to ship clothing items like t-shirts, trousers, dresses, garments, or even accessories. And on top of that, compared to corrugated boxes, they can also be more sustainable, provided you pick them wisely.

Unlike what we are tempted to believe, plastic resin is a more ecological packaging material than pulp is. For example, taking into consideration the manufacturing process alone, a study from the Northern Ireland Assembly concluded that plastic bags consume four times less water than paper bags during production!

In short, and if you are a fashion retailer which cares about the environment, recycled and recyclable plastic envelopes and bubble mailers are ideal ecological packaging solutions, as they can help you have a positive impact on customers  at an affordable price.

Shipping bags allow you to ship lighter

When you want to make savings during shipping, parameters like the weight and thickness of your packaging are not mere details.

Plastic mailers allow you to save money during shipping

As an ecommerce company, recycled plastic mailers are the ideal solution if you want to make savings during shipping as their material and shape allow your parcel to be lightweight and lay flat. In fact, it takes about 7 trucks to transport 2 million paper bags, compared to 1 truck for the same amount of plastic bags.

One of the factors that will determine the price of your shipping is the dimensional weight of the package. It is a pricing technique which is used by courier and postal services in order to calculate how much the shipment should be billed.

Following it, if the item you are transporting is light but sits in a large box, you will be charged more money because your parcel takes up a lot of space in the delivery truck. It is thus in your best interest to keep your package as small as possible and use a plastic mailer instead of a corrugated box.

The lightness of shipping bags is also a strong advantage for companies, as the size of your parcel is not the only thing that matters. Indeed, weight is also another crucial element that will affect the cost of the transport: the heavier the parcel is, the more expensive the shipping fee will be.

To give concrete examples, when the GSM (Gram per Square Meter) weight of a cardboard box usually ranges from 200 to 350g/m2, our classic bubble envelopes combine 75g/m2 kraft paper with 45-50g/m2 bubble foil for a total of up to 125 g/m2!

Ecommerce mailers can save you money from the warehouse

If you choose to ship your items in mailers instead of boxes, you will also be able to save money as early as in your warehouse as shipping bags take up less space than corrugated boxes. 

But that is not all. Thanks to the flexibility and simplicity of use of mailers, your company will also save money during the preparation of orders. 

Unlike boxes, mailers don’t require any assembly, and there is also usually no need to add any filling material! This means more orders can be made in a shorter time, and less people and tools are needed to accomplish this.

Fashion is the ecommerce industry with the highest amount of client returns

Even though the online market of fashion is booming, there is a dark side to it: the amount of goods which are returned by clients.

Choose resealable ecommerce packaging for easy returns

As the leaders of the online fashion market regularly propose free delivery and returns, these practices become a standard for consumers who take advantage of them to try clothes on at home and return them when they don’t fit or aren’t to their taste. This is what leads to the return rate of online apparel shops going above 20%.

As a fashion retailer, you unfortunately won’t be able to avoid having a high rate of returns if your process aims at being consumer-friendly, so it is more than recommended to include an easy-return solution to enable your clients to return your goods easily.

As an online company, it will benefit you as your returns flow will become smoother and will require less time, resources and materials for your teams to process, and thus, less money. But it will also benefit the environment, as the same bag will be used for the initial delivery and the return!

At Filmar, we are well aware of this challenge, which is why our Co-Ex Filbags come in a resealable version with two glue lines that ensure a perfect closure for your items, but also convenient returns!

Prevent damages with safe shipping bags

The cost to replace a damaged product can be several times as high as the original cost of shipping. This is why it is important to put effort into avoiding them! Fortunately, clothing items are goods which are not particularly prone to being damaged during shipping.

But to put all the chances on your side, it is wiser to pick safer ecommerce packaging which will keep your goods protected, and in turn, avoid any additional returns and losses! And when it comes to clothes, the biggest threats you should protect them from are weather and mechanical damages.

To serve this purpose, FILMAR shipping bags and bubble mailers are perfect options! Thanks to their multi-layered LDPE plastic film or bubble wrap, they provide optimal protection from damage and moisture, and also ensure an effective closure with their strong adhesive glued strap.

Packaging bags for shipping allow you to build your brand identity at a low cost

The utility of commerce packaging does not limit to containing goods. It is also an affordable way to get your brand image to be noticed.

Clothing custom packaging is a must in the online fashion industry

Fashion being an industry in which appearance matters a lot, polishing your brand image is very important. And on top of that, your shipping packaging is also the first physical interaction your brand will have with your clients.

It was actually found that 70% of customers form a brand impression solely based on the packaging. And more interestingly even, an astounding 55% of online shoppers have admitted to be willing to repeat business with a website if their purchase comes in a customized packaging.

And if you decide to go for reusable shipping packaging to align with your values of sustainability, you will also allow your shipping packaging to stand out, conveying the message that you care about the environment.

Plastic shipping envelopes offer a wide array of customization possibilities

Since they are cheaper to produce and to ship when compared to cardboard boxes, plastic mailers usually will allow you to spare some budget to be customized and provide the best service possible to your customers.

And fortunately, they are very easy to customize and they offer a broad variety of personalization options to tailor to your items and business!

For example, our Co-Ex Filbags, which are the ideal solution for e-commerce shipping, can be customized to better their handling, but also to improve their aesthetic. Among other things, you can decide to add bottom gussets or handles to it, choose its color and size, and even customize it with a high-quality overprint!

If you want to ship fashion items in the most economical way, we strongly recommend you to opt for plastic shipping mailers instead of cardboard boxes.

Shipping and mailers combine many advantages:  they are lightweight and flexible, which allows you to make savings in the warehouse and during shipping;  they allow you to customize them at a low price, which is crucial for your fashion e-commerce brand; but most importantly, they enable you to lower your impact on the environment in a cost-effective way. 

Courier packaging

Choosing good ecommerce packaging is crucial for any company that ships goods. And for good reason, as it is the first thing your customers see when they receive your products. But, since consumers have become more environmentally aware, opting for good shipping packaging can be a challenge. For its natural look, cardboard often seems like the best choice of material. But is it really the case?

Recycled plastic packaging can help you reduce your carbon footprint

The way our society manages plastic has become a real problem. And as companies, we must work to influence how much plastic stays in the recycling loop.

After use, packaging materials are mostly seen as a waste, and not enough is reused

Most people would not believe how much plastic is produced each year. And it is understandable, as the number is actually quite shocking: globally, 380 million tons of plastic are generated every year. 

It is also worth noting that in 2019, the amount of packaging waste that was generated in the EU was estimated at 178.1 kg per inhabitant. On this figure, plastic, which represented 19.4% of all of it, was the second most used packaging material, just after paper and cardboard. 

Recycling allows us to give a second life to most packaging materials, but unfortunately, not enough is done yet. 

Indeed, as the graph below shows, in the same year, when around 35 kg of plastic packaging waste was generated in the EU per capita, only close to 15 was recycled. This means that more than 40% still ended up in landfills or polluting our landscapes and oceans!

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Packaging_waste_statistics

Choosing recycled plastic packaging is a step towards reducing plastic waste

As businesses, we need to make more sustainable choices, and this can start with the way we ship our goods! 

By using recycled plastic instead of other packaging materials, we are not only able to help save natural resources, but also to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in nature, and prevent pollution. We can in fact reduce by 66% the amount of energy that is used compared to virgin plastic!

As a brand, you can also trigger a change in your customers’ habits by making them aware that plastic can be reused and should be recycled, while letting the plastic industry know that single-use plastic is not an option anymore. This is how you can help achieve a circular economy and close the recycling loop!

Recycled plastic mailers have many advantages compared to corrugated boxes

We often mistakenly think that we should prefer cardboard boxes to bubble mailers and plastic shipping bags because they are made from natural materials. But in reality, cardboard and paper shipping packaging are not always the most ecological option for your business.

Cardboard boxes consume more energy to be produced

According to a study, 52% of all Europeans think that cardboard is the most eco-friendly shipping packaging. But in reality, this is mostly related to its natural-looking aesthetics. For example, a study from the Northern Ireland Assembly concluded that plastic bags consume four times less water than paper bags during production. 

Recycled plastic mailers are more resistant and safe

On average, an e-commerce package is handled 20 times or more during logistics, giving it just as many chances to get damaged. To counter that, unlike cardboard boxes which can easily be cut through and made wet, recycled plastic mailers are highly resistant and waterproof to keep your goods safe. This means less damage, and less broken items.

Shipping bags can be used for a wide range of items

Some items are easy to pack and ship, but some are not. And for the latter, plastic mailers are the best option as they are highly flexible. This flexibility also allows for easier storage in warehouses before goods like clothing items, cosmetics, electronics or accessories, are shipped.

Plastic mailers offer great branding options

Even though packaging’s first role is to protect your items during handling, logistics and transport, aesthetics also matter, which is why the customizability of plastic mailers is a great advantage: it allows you to tailor them to your business and spread your brand’s image and values.

At FILMAR, we propose many customization options to allow you to create the perfect solution for your company, with for example custom overprints and colors, barcode printing, additional handles and gussets, and much more! And if your company requires packaging that can be customized from A to Z, our Co-Ex Filbags are meant for you!

Using ecological shipping packaging made of recycled plastic will help you save money

Every company is looking for the best option that will be as efficient as cost-effective, and recycled plastic mailers combine the two.

Bubble mailers and shipping bags take less storage space

Taking into account several of the advantages that plastic packaging holds over cardboard boxes, we can also see that it is a solution that allows businesses to save money when compared to other methods.

These budget savings actually occur even before the product is shipped and begin in the warehouse. As they do not take up much space, do not need to be folded or flattened, and can be stored only using little space, plastic mailers allow you to make savings as early as during their storage!

Recycled plastic shipping bags help you save on transport and fuel

In comparison to corrugated boxes, mailers are also much more lightweight. In practice, it takes about 7 trucks to transport 2 million paper bags, compared to 1 truck for the same amount of plastic bags.

This is because of the material itself, but also because less additional packaging is needed to protect the item they contain from bad weather conditions such as rain, mechanical damage, and bad handling.

Reusable shipping packaging is best for returns

One of the most important savings you can make is when it comes to returns. In an e-commerce setting, 20% of consumers return items because they received damaged products, which leads to tremendous losses. Indeed, when a return does happen, the cost to replace a damaged product can be several times as high as the original cost of shipping. 

And to avoid this, you need to choose the right shipping solution. Recycled plastic shipping bags are sturdy, allowing them to keep your goods from being broken, and hence, from being returned. And on top of that, they can be customized to incorporate a resealable strap for easy return to lower the cost of sending back the broken item!

Consumers are in demand of ecological packaging solutions

As more and more customers are concerned about their impact on their environment, it is important to show them you care as much as they do.

Environmental responsibility has become a top priority for consumers

According to a 2022 report, 70% of consumers identify as environmentally aware (a number that keeps growing each year), and 66% consider it important to purchase products packaged in environmentally friendly materials.

Another key figure of this study states that 57% of consumers are less likely to buy products in packaging they consider harmful to the environment! 

It goes even further than that, as they also increasingly expect companies to be socially responsible and to use ethical practices.

Source: https://www.triviumpackaging.com/media/kwkpgrfb/2022buyinggreenreport.pdf

Choosing recycled plastic over other packaging materials boosts your brand image

As another direct consequence of customers’ sustainable preferences, having eco-friendly packaging can do wonders for the image of your brand.

Acting for sustainability with ecological packaging solutions can create an emotional bond with your customers

Shipping packaging is much more than just a means of getting your goods safely delivered to your customers. It can be a real communication tool to convey what your company is really about.

In a sea of businesses, it is important to make your brand stand out, which can be done by embracing a value that is at the heart of your company.

By doing so, you will be able to build a strong reputation, as customers will choose your company specifically and will be more inclined to develop an emotional bond with it. And this emotional bond is in fact crucial: according to a recent survey from Deloitte Digital, 44% of people would make a recommendation based on emotional criteria.

If your company values environmental protection and sustainability, choosing an eco friendly shipping packaging will help you convey your engagement to customers. 

A sustainable image can conquer the hearts of Millennials

If you want to seize new growth opportunities, you have to win the attention of the younger customers. However, for that, you will need to develop concrete efforts to protect the environment. 

While being  the number 1 e-shoppers, Millennials (understand people that were born between the year 1981 and 1996) also place the protection of the environment as their top concern.

In terms of behavior, this translates in the fact that two-thirds of them try to cut down on single-use plastics and to recycle more, and 47% make a point to educate themselves on the environmental aspects of a brand they consume.

This means that with the right efforts, like adopting packaging that is made from recycled plastic, and with the right image approach, you can seduce a whole new group of people!

Source: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/global/Documents/About-Deloitte/deloitte-2020-millennial-survey.pdf

All in all, for small businesses just like for large businesses, going for more green and environmentally friendly shipping options is the way to go for growth! Not only will you save money and resources, but you will also win the heart of consumers.

If you are now ready to go the eco-friendly road with recycled plastic packaging, we at FILMAR group have exactly what you need! On top of being made with recycled plastics and paper, our packaging solutions are also recyclable and reusable.

Discover our ecological shipping and courier packaging now:

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