From spring to summer, B2C sales typically see a strong surge in seasonal items across several categories, as presented by Rithum, an e-commerce solutions provider. Tools for gardening, DIY projects, and handcrafting become popular as consumers engage in home improvement and creative hobbies. Meanwhile, sales of summer clothing and shoes—like flip-flops, hats, and caps—spike, alongside demand for cycling accessories, camping gear, and other hobby-related products. Swimming gear and sports clothing also see increased activity as outdoor recreation peaks. Higher seasonal demand is a challenge for e-commerce companies as they struggle to maintain shipping costs low, while ensuring clients’ satisfaction and reducing the impact of shipping on the environment. How to meet all those needs at once in the best way possible?
When shipping seasonal e-commerce items like tools, summer clothing, and hobby gear, it’s essential to consider the specific characteristics and common sizes of these products. Gardening tools and DIY equipment often have irregular shapes, sharp edges, or heavy parts that require sturdy, form-fitting packaging—ideally with protective sleeves or molded inserts—to prevent damage and injury during handling. Seasonal clothing and shoes such as flip-flops, hats, and caps are lightweight and compressible, making them ideal for soft or padded mailers that reduce bulk without sacrificing protection. Hobby gear like cycling or camping accessories can range from compact to mid-sized and may include fragile or multi-part items that benefit from customized compartments within packaging to keep everything securely in place.
While boxes with loose fillers and excessive stretch wrap might seem like a catch-all solution, they often increase shipping costs, environmental waste, and the risk of shifting during transit. Over-reliance on fillers can lead to poor load stability and unnecessary packaging volume, especially for soft or flexible items that don’t require rigid enclosures. Instead, our packaging solutions offer right-sized, eco-friendly materials with integrated support features tailored to product type and size. This minimizes movement, enhances safety for both the product and handlers, and reduces waste, ensuring that shipments arrive intact and responsibly packed.
Spring and summer clothing and accessories often include lightweight materials and compact items like flip-flops, hats, swimwear, and activewear. These products generally don’t require bulky packaging but do need protection from moisture, dust, and compression. Packaging should prioritize space efficiency and product integrity—recyclable poly mailers or padded envelopes with protective inner layers are ideal for most apparel, while structured but minimal packaging works well for accessories like sunglasses or brimmed hats. Additionally, clear labeling can help streamline sorting and reduce returns.
An effective packaging strategy for these seasonal items should also consider the unboxing experience and brand sustainability goals. Materials should be easy to open yet secure, and ideally reusable or recyclable to align with eco-conscious consumer preferences – learn more about them from our blog article dedicated to that topic.
By selecting packaging tailored to the specific features of spring/summer inventory, e-commerce sellers can improve customer satisfaction, minimize waste, and enhance the overall shipping experience.
For transporting spring and summer clothing accessories, it’s the size that matters, but also weight and shapes. These lifestyle products, such as sunglasses, swimwear, flip-flops, or brimmed hats, are often lightweight, but can be fragile or deformable. Using packaging that offers a snug, protective fit while staying lightweight keeps shipping costs down and product safety high. Additionally, seasonal accessories provide a great opportunity for personalization—branded packaging or custom inserts can elevate the unboxing experience and reinforce brand identity without compromising shipment integrity.
To prevent damage that renders the product unusable, it’s essential to use packaging solutions tailored to the vulnerability of the item. Eco, Classic and Extra Strong Bubble Mailers provide a lightweight but durable layer of protection for items like jewelry, soft accessories, or folded garments, cushioning them against shocks without adding bulk. For more delicate or structured items such as sunglasses, small hobby gear, or rigid hats, Foam Envelopes with optionally an added layer of Bubble Wrap (sold separately) offer a higher level of shock absorption and shape retention. These materials help ensure items stay intact through sorting, stacking, and transport, reducing the risk of returns and maintaining customer satisfaction.
Importantly, these solutions are both efficient and economical. Bubble Mailers and Foam Envelopes require minimal to no filler material, making them faster to pack and more cost-effective in both materials and labor. They also typically fall within dimensional weight thresholds for lower shipping rates, all while providing reliable protection for your goods. By choosing these targeted solutions, e-commerce retailers can ship spring and summer accessories swiftly, safely, and sustainably—meeting seasonal demand without sacrificing quality or customer experience.
Shipping seasonal products like flip-flops, hats, sharp tools, and swimwear in an eco-conscious way starts with minimizing packaging waste while ensuring protection. One of the most effective strategies is using right-sized packaging—selecting mailers or envelopes that fit the product snugly without excess space. For instance, flip-flops can often be shipped in letter-sized, padded mailers, avoiding bulky boxes altogether. Similarly, light products like swimwear benefit from recyclable mailers that reduce material use while maintaining protection from moisture and dirt. Sharp tools, on the other hand, require reinforced but compact packaging in addition to their original packaging, such as Foam Envelopes that ensure safety without unnecessary bulk or fillers.
To guarantee that packaging solutions are genuinely environmentally friendly, businesses should prioritize materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or made from recycled content. Third-party certifications or verifiable sustainability claims help validate these choices. Additionally, opting for mono-material designs – where all components of the packaging can be recycled together – simplifies disposal and increases the chances of actual recycling. It’s also important to avoid overusing protective materials like stretch film, which are often non-recyclable or excessive for low-risk items. Combining safety with sustainability is not only possible – it’s an expectation from today’s consumers.
Promoting these eco-friendly practices is a powerful way to reinforce a lifestyle brand’s values. Clear messaging around packaging choices, including printed recycling instructions and sustainability icons, encourages responsible disposal. Brands can go a step further by emphasizing how appropriately sized packaging helps avoid “shipping air,” reducing greenhouse gas emissions linked to transport. By being transparent and intentional about packaging decisions, businesses can build trust and loyalty while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable e-commerce ecosystem.
The e-commerce returns reach staggering percentages, as up to 40% of all e-commerce orders in Europe are returned (LogsitcsMatter). Not only is that bad for the environment, as the parcel travels all the way back to the sender, but also it creates costs for the companies. Packaging for companies offering easy returns should be constructed in a way allowing convenient resealing. Our signature Co-Ex Filbags can be customized with a reseal stripe – see customized solutions by clicking here.
The key to balancing safety with sustainability lies in using right-sized packaging that reduces air space and prevents product shifting during transit. Avoiding bulky void fillers and stretch wrap not only cuts down on waste but also minimizes dimensional weight, leading to lower shipping emissions. Selecting materials like FSC-certified paper mailers or Blue Angel-certified polymailers ensures both environmental responsibility and recyclability. Many eco-friendly materials today are also engineered for durability, meaning businesses no longer need to compromise between protection and planet-friendly design.
By making intentional packaging choices, brands can significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions from shipping while aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainability. Sharing these efforts with customers reinforces the message and promotes shared environmental responsibility. A summer shipping strategy that reduces waste, avoids overpacking, and still protects the product not only meets logistics goals but also strengthens a brand’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
Co-Ex Filbags combined with Bubble Wrap offer a tailored, high-performance packaging solution for lifestyle e-commerce stores, particularly during the busy spring and summer seasons. These multi-layered mailers, made from recycled materials, are lightweight yet incredibly durable, making them ideal for shipping a wide variety of lifestyle products—from swimwear and flip-flops to accessories and light hobby gear. Their co-extruded film structure provides excellent resistance to moisture, tearing, and punctures, while the integrated Bubble Wrap lining cushions contents against impacts. This dual-layer protection ensures goods arrive safely, even when shipped in compact, letter-sized formats, helping reduce shipping costs and damage-related returns.
For lifestyle brands focused on fast, secure, and stylish delivery, Co-Ex Filbags also support efficient packing and a sleek unboxing experience. They can be custom-branded for better visibility and stronger consumer engagement, while their low weight and space-saving form help minimize greenhouse gas emissions during transport. Paired with right-sized sheets of Bubble Wrap, they eliminate the need for excess fillers and oversized boxes, offering a more sustainable alternative that aligns with eco-conscious brand values. This packaging combo not only meets the practical demands of e-commerce but also enhances customer satisfaction through smarter, greener shipping. For businesses preferring a single packaging solution, Eco Bubble Mailers are the way to go. These mailers are 100% recyclable, contain 80% Post-Consumer Recycled Content (PCR) for the outer paper shell and 40% PCR for the plastic film.
Co-Ex Filbags paired with Bubble Wrap are a made-to-measure solution for lifestyle e-commerce stores thanks to their lightweight durability, protective design, and cost-effective efficiency. The multi-layered Co-Ex film, made from 80% recycled post-consumer plastic, resists moisture, tearing, and punctures—making it ideal for shipping seasonal items like flip-flops, swimwear, hats, and small hobby gear. When combined with Bubble Wrap, these mailers offer enhanced cushioning without adding bulk, ensuring even delicate or irregularly shaped products arrive intact. Their sleek, compact form factor reduces dimensional weight and overall shipping costs, helping retailers stay competitive during peak summer demand.
Beyond protection and efficiency, Blue Angel-certified Co-Ex Filbags also align with the branding and sustainability goals of lifestyle e-commerce businesses. They support custom printing, giving brands the opportunity to create a visually appealing, on-brand unboxing experience. Their minimal material usage compared to traditional boxes means less waste and fewer emissions from transporting “empty air.” When used with recyclable Bubble Wrap or biodegradable alternatives, they offer a more environmentally responsible packaging solution—balancing functionality, safety, and sustainability in one streamlined format.
Additionally, Co-Ex Filbags are easy to store and quick to pack, making them ideal for fast-paced fulfillment environments typical of lifestyle brands during the summer season. Their peel-and-seal closure streamlines the packing process, reduces the need for additional adhesives or tape, and ensures a secure seal throughout the shipment journey. This combination of speed, protection, and presentation makes them a smart choice for e-commerce retailers looking to optimize their summer shipping strategy without compromising on quality or customer experience. These mailers can be customized according to any brand’s needs with water-based inks. Learn more about the benefits of water-based inks from our blog article here.
Recyclable bubble wrap made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials is an ideal packaging solution for lifestyle e-commerce, especially during the high-volume summer season. As products like clothing, swimwear, and hobby gear move in and out of warehouses quickly, packaging that is both protective and environmentally responsible becomes crucial. Bubble wrap made from PCR not only helps reduce the demand for virgin plastic but also contributes to a circular economy by reusing materials that would otherwise become waste. It’s a lightweight, durable option that provides strong cushioning for seasonal products without adding unnecessary shipping weight.
One of the standout benefits of recyclable PCR bubble wrap is its reusability—particularly important in the lifestyle segment, where returns are common. Customers can use the same bubble wrap to return items safely, reducing the need for new packaging materials and reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability. This reuse potential adds value to the packaging experience, both for customers and retailers, by supporting a return process that is efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
To maximize its environmental benefits, it’s important to guide customers on how to recycle bubble wrap correctly. Including clear instructions on the packaging or a note within the order can help ensure it ends up in the appropriate recycling stream—provided it’s clean and uncontaminated. By integrating recyclable, PCR-based bubble wrap into their shipping strategy, lifestyle e-commerce stores can reduce waste, improve return logistics, and enhance their green credentials—all while ensuring products arrive in perfect condition.
Highlighting your brand’s sustainable commitment and EU-PPWR compliance through packaging is a powerful way to connect with today’s eco-conscious consumers—especially during the high-traffic summer season. Custom packaging options, such as branded mailers or printed messaging on recyclable materials, allow lifestyle e-commerce brands to reinforce their values from the moment a package is received. Using eco-friendly materials like FSC-certified paper, PCR-based bubble wrap, Blue-Angel labelled polymailers, or mono-material mailers not only demonstrates environmental responsibility but also offers a visual, tangible expression of your brand’s mission. Thoughtful details, such as minimalist design or low-ink printing further enhance the message while keeping packaging waste to a minimum.
Beyond visual appeal, sustainable branding is about transparency and education. Packaging can include icons or QR codes that link to recycling instructions, material sourcing information, or your brand’s sustainability story. This not only helps consumers dispose of packaging responsibly but also deepens brand loyalty by showing you care about your environmental impact beyond the sale. In a competitive summer market where lifestyle products are tied closely to personal values, these small touches make a lasting impression—turning everyday packaging into a meaningful extension of your brand.
Sourcing your packaging within Europe is a strategic move that not only supports local economies, but significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to importing materials from overseas. While many lifestyle goods—such as summer clothing, swimwear, and accessories—are manufactured in Asia, particularly China, and have already made a considerable carbon footprint during transport, there’s no need to compound that impact with long-distance packaging shipments. Choosing EU-based packaging suppliers ensures shorter supply chains, more consistent delivery times, and a smaller environmental footprint, helping brands move toward more sustainable operations overall.
European packaging materials also come with the advantage of traceable, certified raw materials that meet rigorous environmental and safety standards. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or Blauer Engel guarantee that paper and cardboard are sourced from responsibly managed forests and production processes that prioritize low emissions and sustainable resource use, utilizing PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled Content) materials. This level of transparency is especially important for lifestyle brands looking to align their shipping strategy with their sustainability values, all while meeting consumer expectations for ethical sourcing.
In addition to being eco-friendly, European-sourced packaging solutions often adhere to the highest safety and recyclability standards. New ISO certifications ensure that packaging is safe for consumers, free from harmful substances, and suitable for a wide range of product types. Clear recycling instructions printed directly on the packaging further empower consumers to dispose of materials correctly, closing the loop on sustainability. By sourcing packaging within Europe, lifestyle e-commerce brands can create a shipping strategy that’s both practical and planet-friendly—supporting fast, safe delivery while staying true to environmental commitments.
Using certified shipping packaging is a crucial step in building a responsible and reliable shipping strategy for the summer season. One of the latest additions to our certification portfolio is the renewed ISO certification, which reflects our commitment to maintaining high-quality operational standards. This internationally recognized certification ensures that our processes—from sourcing to production and logistics—are continuously monitored and improved. For lifestyle e-commerce brands, this translates into consistent packaging quality, product safety, and dependable supply, especially during peak periods like the summer months when demand surges.
In addition to ISO, we proudly carry certifications that validate the sustainability of our packaging materials: FSC, Blauer Engel, RecyClass. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) guarantees that paper and cardboard are sourced from responsibly managed forests. Blauer Engel (Blue Angel) is one of Europe’s oldest environmental labels, certifying that our materials meet strict eco and health criteria. RecyClass verifies the recyclability of plastic packaging and ensures compatibility with existing recycling systems. Together, these certifications confirm that our packaging isn’t just sustainable in theory—it’s tested, traceable, and aligned with EU-wide environmental standards.
Integrating interationally certified, sustainable packaging into your operations can become the cornerstone of your eco-friendly brand strategy. Not only does it minimize your environmental impact, but it also offers a powerful message to your customers: that sustainability is embedded in your business values. With growing consumer awareness and expectations around eco-conscious practices, using packaging that’s ISO-compliant, responsibly sourced, and verifiably recyclable positions your brand as a transparent, forward-thinking player in the e-commerce space. It’s more than a shipping choice—it’s a strategic advantage that reinforces your commitment to the planet.
From spring to summer, B2C sales typically see a strong surge in seasonal items across several categories, including significant spikes in tools, summer apparel, and hobby gear. To meet this growing demand, FILMAR offers reliable, safe, eco friendly and versatile packaging solutions tailored for the lifestyle e-commerce sector. Our wide range of sizes and formats ensures optimal protection for everything from flip-flops and swimwear to gardening tools and cycling accessories. Each product is designed with sustainability in mind—made from certified recycled materials, customizable for your brand, and built to support safe returns and eco-conscious shipping.
Engage with us to find the best sustainable packaging solution for your lifestyle e-commerce business this season. From spring’s first orders to the height of summer, we’ll help you ship seasonal products safely—and sustainably!
FILMAR Group’s product offer aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging. Our solutions, such as Eco-Bubble Mailers, Co-Ex Filbags, and Adhesive Shipping Label Envelopes represent this commitment. The products are crafted from sustainably sourced, recycled and recyclable materials, meeting both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements like the EU PPWR.
By choosing FILMAR’s eco-friendly packaging, companies can reduce their environmental impact, support recycling infrastructures, and enhance their brand reputation. Our customizable solutions not only contribute to a circular economy but also provide practical, sustainable options for businesses of all sizes.
Discover our certified, sustainable shipping envelopes and poly mailers:
