Mailers

Mailers are packaging designed for mailing and shipping items, ranging from letters to small goods. The most common forms are padded mailers, which are bubble-lined for cushioning, poly mailers made of lightweight plastic, paper mailers, and rigid cardboard mailers. They are designed with closures such as self-sealing adhesive flaps, tear-notches for easy opening, and coatings or liners that add moisture resistance. Sizes and thicknesses vary to fit contents and postal requirements.

Materials and uses reflect a balance between protection, cost, and sustainability. Poly mailers are lightweight and durable but less recyclable in some communities, while paper mailers and padded options may offer higher recyclability depending on local facilities. Typical applications include e-commerce shipments, catalogs and promotional mailings, and document transit. For fragile items, padded or rigid mailers provide added protection, and some designs incorporate tamper-evident seals.

Design considerations include choosing appropriate dimensions, protection level, compatibility with barcode labeling and automated sorting, and whether a security seal is needed. Environmental aspects are increasingly important; recyclability and compostability vary by material and by local recycling guidelines, so users should consult facility guidelines. Regulatory considerations can affect labeling, plastic use, and waste disposal practices in different regions.

In information technology, the term mailer can also refer to software that handles email delivery, such as mail transfer agents and bulk-email tools used to prepare, send, and track messages. Both packaging mailers and software mailers share a focus on delivering content efficiently and securely.