Cushioning built into the envelope itself

A padded envelope has a cushioned lining, usually bubble wrap or paper-based padding, built into a paper or plastic-free outer shell. This gives small, lightweight items real protection from knocks in transit, without the bulk, weight or cost of a full box.

Why Choose Padding Over a Box

For small items, like jewellery, small electronics accessories, or single retail products, a full box can be unnecessary weight and cost. A padded envelope gives enough cushioning to protect the item while keeping the parcel light, which also helps keep postage costs down.

Padding Material Options

Traditional padded envelopes use a bubble wrap lining, though paper-based cushioning options are increasingly popular for brands wanting to avoid plastic. We can advise on the right padding type based on how fragile your product is and your sustainability goals.

Where Padded Envelopes Are Used

This style is common for online retailers shipping small, individual items, jewellery, small electronics, cosmetics, and similar lightweight products that need protection but not a full mailer box.

Materials

The outer shell is typically kraft paper or a plastic-free alternative, with either bubble wrap or a paper honeycomb lining providing the cushioning inside.

Order Sizes We Support

Custom padded envelopes are available from around 100 to 250 units, suiting online retailers shipping small items regularly.

Average Prices

As a general guide, padded envelopes typically cost between £0.20 and £0.80 per unit, depending on size, padding type and print. These are guide figures only.

Sustainability

Paper-based padded envelopes, using a honeycomb or crinkle paper lining instead of plastic bubble wrap, are available and are usually easier to recycle as a single, paper-based unit.

Getting Started

Tell us what you are shipping and its weight, and we will suggest a suitable envelope size and padding type. We build a proof before production and UK-wide delivery.