How to Send a Bubble Mailer

Send bubble mailers via U.S. mail.

Bubble mailers protect delicate objects from damage during shipping. Bubble mailers cushion items between layers of gentle, air-filled plastic bubbles. Shipping items through the mail service exposes them to harsh environmental and handling conditions, as anyone who's ever received damaged goods in the mail can attest. People shipping CDs, books, toys or other small items frequently choose to employ bubble mailers over traditional cardboard packaging to take advantage of the lower shipping prices available for bubble mailers. Send a bubble mailer the same way you would any large envelope.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Scale capable of measuring ounces
• Postal stamps

Instructions

1. Place the object being mailed inside the bubble mailer. Close the flap on the bubble mailer, securing it to the envelope using the securing mechanism employed by your particular bubble mailer. Avoid pushing down roughly on the package and popping the bubbles inside.

2. Write the name and address of the person or organization you're shipping the bubble mailer to on the front-center of the bubble mailer. Write your name and address in the upper-left corner of the mailer.

3. Place the bubble mailer on a scale capable of measuring ounces. Record the weight of the bubble mailer.

4. Consult the United States Postal Service's price list for large envelopes (see Resources). Affix the appropriate amount of stamps to the upper-right corner of the bubble mailer.

5. Place the bubble mailer in a mail box or bring it to a postal center.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring the bubble mailer to a postal center if you don't have a scale capable of measuring the envelope. Employees at the postal center can weigh the mailer and provide the appropriate postage. You only have to pay the price of the postage.

• Consider wrapping the items inside the bubble mailer in cling film as an extra layer of protection in case the mailer gets wet or the integrity of the mailer is compromised.

• People shipping bubble mailers to other countries should use international stamps. Bring the bubble mailer to the post office and employees will help you apply the correct postage.

References

• United States Postal Service: Addressing Tips & Tools
• Envelopes Wholesale: Bubble Mailers
• Bookshop Blog: Shiiping with Bubble Mailers

Resources

• United States Postal Service: First-Class Mail Prices