Poly mailers
Lightweight mailing bags for e-commerce, retail and fulfilment.
Polyethylene (PE) for packaging.
Polyethylene is a versatile, durable and lightweight plastic used in flexible packaging. The grade and structure determine toughness, moisture resistance and processability for mailers and garment bags.
LDPE (Low-density polyethylene)
LDPE is a flexible material used in mailing bags, garment bags and general-purpose films. Grade and film construction affect sealing, clarity and handling performance.
- What strength and flexibility do you need?
- Will the bag be hand packed or machine packed?
- Do you need clarity, opacity or a specific finish?
LLDPE (Linear low-density polyethylene)
LLDPE can be used in blends and film structures where toughness and puncture resistance matter. The complete formulation and processing conditions determine performance.
- Describe the packed load and handling.
- Review thickness and film structure.
- Compare samples under agreed conditions.
HDPE (High-density polyethylene)
HDPE film can provide a stiffer feel than other polyethylene films, depending on grade and processing. Select the structure for the actual application.
- Assess stiffness, opacity and feel.
- Check sealing and conversion compatibility.
- Confirm the specification with a sample.
Specification questions
Share the key details so a suitable PE specification can be reviewed.
| Item | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Grade | LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE offer different balances; explain your requirements. |
| Film structure | Single-layer or multi-layer structure, and the role of each layer. |
| Thickness | Target thickness or required tear, puncture and handling performance. |
| Closure | Heat seal, adhesive flap or another method; confirm equipment compatibility. |
| Printing | Colours, coverage, artwork requirements and surface treatment. |
| Recycled content | Target content subject to availability, traceability and application suitability. |
Recycled content and disposal considerations
PE packaging may be produced with recycled content, subject to material availability and application requirements. The type and level of recycled content can affect appearance, mechanical properties and consistency.
End-of-life options depend on local collection and recycling systems. A PE material description alone does not guarantee that a finished pack is collected or recycled in every destination. Review the complete structure and local requirements.
Specifying PE packaging for your order
Selecting a polyethylene grade and film structure starts with your contents, weight, packing method, sealing equipment and intended disposal routes. These factors influence the final specification.
Compare samples and trial the proposed construction with real products before full production. Keep the confirmed material and performance requirements with your order reference.
Frequently asked questions.
Which material and thickness should I specify?
Choose around the packed product, weight, handling route and required appearance. Film thickness should be reviewed alongside material structure, opacity, seams and closure performance; a thicker film alone does not guarantee the right pack. State the thickness unit and whether you are referring to a single film wall.
Where no specification exists, share an existing bag or describe the performance you need. Compare proposed samples using the actual contents and agree the material, dimensions and acceptance criteria before placing the bulk order.
What information is needed for a mailing bag quotation?
Start with the product you are packing, the usable bag width and length, closure flap, quantity per size and delivery destination. Add the material or thickness if known, plus print colours, artwork and any packing requirements. A photo of the packed item or an existing sample can help explain the application.
If the specification is still open, describe the product weight, dimensions and dispatch process. The quotation should identify the agreed specification, sample scope, setup charges and shipping basis so different options can be compared fairly.
Can I request recycled-content packaging?
Include the requested recycled-content proportion and the evidence required by your purchasing team. Ask how the claim is defined and which documentation supports the proposed material. Colour, appearance and performance should be reviewed on a representative sample.
Recycled content and recyclability describe different things. Do not add disposal wording or environmental claims based only on a bag colour or appearance; confirm the material information and the collection guidance relevant to the destination before finalising printed messaging.
Can I request custom colours, logo printing and different sizes?
Include each size, base colour and artwork version in your enquiry. For printed mailing bags, supply the design files, colour references, intended print sides and coverage, and identify any area that must remain clear for labels or sealing.
Feasibility, printing method, minimum quantity and setup charges depend on the final specification. Review a proof for placement and dimensions, then agree whether a physical printed sample is needed for colour, surface appearance and construction approval.
What is the difference between a sample, proof and prototype?
A stock sample helps you assess an existing format or material. A digital proof checks artwork positioning and layout, but does not demonstrate physical bag strength, colour on the actual film or packed fit. A custom physical sample or pre-production sample can address the agreed construction and print requirements.
State what you want to approve and which features must match production. Confirm sample availability, cost, quantity, timing and shipping separately, and keep the approved sample or proof linked to the final specification.
Are self-sealing mailing bags suitable for fragile or heavy goods?
A flexible outer mailer provides no rigid structure by itself. Fragile products, sharp edges or concentrated loads may need a suitable inner box, cushioning or a different packaging format. Review the whole packed item and its handling route before deciding on a bag.
For heavier contents, specify the packed weight and discuss the film, seams and closure together. Evaluate a representative packed sample and agree any necessary handling or transit assessment rather than choosing only by bag dimensions or thickness.
Discuss your requirements
Tell us about your product, size, quantity and destination. We will help you work through the next steps.