If you run a small business, there’s a good chance you’ve either used or received a shipping bag.
But are you using the right type? Are you overpaying for packaging? Are your products arriving damaged or messy?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about poly mailers (courier or shipping bags). When to use them, how to pack them properly, and what they actually cost in today’s market.
Let’s get straight to it.
What Are Poly Mailers or Courier Bags?
Poly mailers are flexible, waterproof shipping bags made from polyethylene. They’re commonly used for packaging clothes, documents, and other non-fragile items.
People also call them:
- Courier bags (especially in local dispatch settings)
- Mailing pouches
- Shipping bags
They usually come with a self-adhesive strip, which means no tape is needed.
Some are padded (with bubble wrap inside), some are expandable with gussets, and others are made from eco-friendly or biodegradable materials.
Why Shipping Bags Matter for Small Business
Forget bulky boxes. Shipping bags save you in three major ways:
💰 Cost
Poly mailers are cheap. You’ll find them for ₦250 to ₦500 per bag depending on type and size. Branded or padded versions cost more, but still far less than custom boxes.
🧳 Space
They’re flat, foldable, and don’t take up warehouse or storage room space. Even a hundred bags can fit in a small drawer.
⚡ Speed
No need to fold or tape like boxes. You just insert your product, seal, label, and it’s ready to go. Perfect for high-volume days.
What to Ship in Poly Mailers (And What Not To)
Ideal Items for Shipping Bags
- T-shirts, dresses, native wear
- Journals, notebooks, books
- Packaged skincare or beauty products
- Jewelry in boxes
- Sealed food items (e.g., granola, spices)
- Phone accessories and boxed electronics
What to Avoid
- Fragile electronics (TV remotes, earbuds, power banks)
- Liquids or leaky items
- Multiple sharp-edged items
- Glass or ceramic
A good rule: If it can break or poke through, don’t put it in a soft mailer.
Types of Shipping Bags You Can Choose From
| Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Plain poly mailer | Cheapest, best for clothes |
| Bubble mailer | Extra padding for books, cosmetics, or boxed goods |
| Gusseted mailer | Flexible size for bulkier items |
| Eco-friendly | Great for conscious brands—biodegradable or recyclable |
| Returnable (dual strip) | Adds convenience for customers who return items |
How Much Do Courier Bags Cost? (Nigerian Rates)
| Bag Type | Estimated Cost (Retail) |
|---|---|
| Small poly mailer | ₦250 – ₦400 |
| Medium size (10x13”) | ₦300 – ₦450 |
| Bubble mailer | ₦350 – ₦500 |
| Branded courier bags | ₦300 – ₦1,000 (depending on print quality) |
| Eco courier bags | ₦500 – ₦1,000+ |
Where to Buy
- Check local markets near you
- Jumia or Konga stores
- Print vendors (ask for referrals)
- Aliexpress (long wait time but cheap in bulk)
For branded courier bags, many vendors accept MOQ of 100–200 bags.
How to Pack Items Properly in a Shipping Bag
Just stuffing it in doesn’t cut it. Here’s how to do it right:
🔹 Choose the right size
Avoid oversized bags. Items should fit snugly without too much air space.
🔹 Add padding (if needed)
For electronics or boxed products, insert bubble wrap or foam for extra safety.
🔹 Seal tight
Use the self-adhesive flap properly. Don’t reuse it. If in doubt, tape the edges.
🔹 Label properly
Use bold, clear shipping labels. If you’re handwriting addresses, use permanent marker and stick tape over it to avoid smudging.
Shipping Bags vs Boxes
| Feature | Courier Bag | Cardboard Box |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ₦250–₦500 | ₦800–₦1,500+ |
| Storage | Takes no space | Bulky |
| Packing speed | Fast | Slow (taping etc.) |
| Branding | Easy and affordable | More costly |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
Final Tips for Business Owners
- Keep about 2-3 sizes of shipping bags in stock (small, medium, large).
- Use branded bags if you’re trying to stand out.
- Always test a few before committing to bulk when you're starting out.
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