Choose the outer package around what can happen to the contents
Fold the item as it will be sent and check which parts need protection. A cotton top, a gift set in a presentation box and a garment with a large metal buckle can need different packaging. Think about pressure, rubbing, bending and movement inside the parcel. The item’s soft fabric alone does not describe the whole order.
| Order or packing need | Format to consider | Check with a packed sample |
|---|---|---|
| Soft garment that tolerates bending | Suitable mailing bag | Closure room, seams and any protruding details. |
| Garment with hardware or sharp decoration | Protective inner wrap and suitable outer bag or carton | Whether the protected details still press against the outer. |
| Presentation pack that must hold its shape | Box with appropriate internal support | Movement and space around the presentation pack. |
| Mixed soft and rigid items | Compartment or protection within a suitable box | Items stay separated during handling. |
| Several garments in one order | Larger suitable bag or box | The full parcel closes securely and fits the booked service. |
Start with the carrier’s packing guidance for the actual contents. DHL explains that internal packaging should prevent the contents moving and that the outer package and seal need to suit the goods. For vulnerable or fragile components, follow the protection guidance for those parts of the order. DHL Express packing guidance · Royal Mail advice for fragile items
Leave enough room for a mailing bag to close
An opaque peel-and-seal bag can keep soft clothing contained while adding relatively little bulk. Choose the width and usable depth around the folded item. Leave room to bring the opening together without stretching the bag or forcing the adhesive strip onto an uneven bundle.
Triplast’s grey 12 × 16 inch bags are an example supplied in packs of 100 with a peel-and-seal strip. The nominal flat size is a starting measurement for choosing a sample. Once the bag holds clothing, its thickness and available closing area change. Check the exact pack and trial it with the fullest order you expect to send. Triplast grey mailing bag sizes
Keep a clean folded garment away from the closure while packing. If part of the order could catch or pierce the outer, protect that part first and check whether the package still needs a carton. An inner presentation bag may help keep the garment together during packing, but any added layer also becomes part of the parcel’s final weight and dimensions.
For suitable soft goods
Triplast grey 12 × 16 inch mailing bags
Opaque grey mailing bags with a peel-and-seal strip for clothing and other suitable soft contents.
Keep in mind. Leave room for the filled bag to close without stretching the seal. Its flat size does not give the packed parcel dimensions.
- 12 × 16 inch nominal size
- Peel-and-seal closure
- 100 grey bags
Allow room for the contents and their protection
For a box, compare the internal space with the protected contents. The Triplast 8 × 6 × 4 inch carton example below has listed internal dimensions of 203 × 152 × 102 mm. Its Amazon listing separately gives outside dimensions of 208 × 157 × 112 mm. Those are different measurements serving different decisions. Use the internal size to assess fit and measure the finished outer package for postage.
This compact carton may suit small soft accessories or a mixed order that fits its space. A full garment, larger gift box or protected item can need another size. Make the trial with the real item and the protection you intend to use, then close the flaps without forcing them. Triplast’s manufacturer catalogue describes its packaging range, and the exact selected listing supplies the carton dimensions. Triplast packaging catalogue
A compact box for smaller items
Triplast single-wall 8 × 6 × 4 inch cartons
Flat-packed single-wall cartons for items that need a rigid outer package and fit the stated internal dimensions.
Keep in mind. Allow room for protection and check the finished outside dimensions. A box for a larger garment or presentation pack may need a different size.
- 203 × 152 × 102 mm internal
- 25 flat-packed cartons
- Requires packing tape
Trial one complete order before buying a large batch
- Select an order that represents the largest or most awkward combination you expect to put into that package.
- Protect any vulnerable details and place the contents inside. Check corners, edges and closures for pressure from the item.
- Close the outer fully using its intended strip or suitable packing tape. The flaps or bag opening should meet without strain.
- Move the package through your ordinary packing and handling routine. Check that the contents stay arranged and the closure stays flat.
- Measure and weigh the packed sample. Record the packaging code with the item combination so the next person can repeat it.
Repeat the trial when you change the number of items, the supplier’s packaging size or the protection inside. For example, two small garments may fill a bag differently from a single bulkier item. A saved package choice is useful only while that combination remains representative.
Measure, label and hand over the finished parcel
Use the carrier’s current limits for the selected service. Measure a filled bag at its widest, longest and thickest points, including bulges. Measure the outside of a closed box and include any protruding packaging. Put the whole parcel on the scale. The postage band guide explains how to compare each measurement with the service you intend to buy.
Choose a flat area for the shipping label with the barcode fully supported. On a bag, keep it away from a folded closure or deep crease. On a box, keep it clear of taped seams and old labels. Check the order, label and chosen handover location together before putting the parcel in the ready-to-send area. DHL packing and labelling instructions
Common questions
Is a mailing bag suitable for clothing?
It can suit soft garments that tolerate bending and handling. Check that details such as buckles, zips or presentation packaging are protected and that the sealed bag remains secure.
When should I choose a box for soft goods?
Consider a box when the item needs a rigid outer shape, when presentation must be preserved, or when the order includes parts that could mark or pierce a bag. Allow room for the needed protection.
Does a flat mailing bag’s size determine its postage band?
Measure the filled, sealed parcel at its greatest outside points and weigh it. Its flat empty dimensions do not show the thickness or bulges after packing.
Are cardboard box dimensions internal or external?
Check the listing. Internal dimensions describe room for the contents. Carrier limits apply to the finished outside package, so measure the actual sealed box.
Should I buy one packaging size for all orders?
Trial the combinations you send most often. A small set of suitable sizes can keep closures secure and reduce unnecessary empty space, while giving each item the protection it needs.