Top 10 Shipping Supplies Every Seller Should Have

A smooth shipping workflow starts with the right tools. Whether you’re fulfilling ten orders a week or a hundred a day, having the proper supplies on hand will save you time, reduce errors, and ensure your packages arrive safely and professionally. From protective packaging to labeling essentials, this list covers the must-have shipping supplies for small business owners, e-commerce sellers, and frequent shippers.

Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 shipping supplies every seller should stock—plus how to save money when buying them.

1. Shipping Boxes and Mailers
   Stock a variety of box sizes and padded mailers to accommodate different product types. For fragile or odd-shaped items, consider corrugated boxes or bubble mailers. Retailers like Office Depot, Staples, and Walmart carry a full range of affordable packaging options—and you can earn cashback with a Staples gift card when buying through Fluz.
2. Packing Tape
   Use strong, pressure-sensitive packing tape at least 2 inches wide to secure your packages. A heavy-duty tape dispenser is also worth the investment to speed up the sealing process.
3. Thermal Shipping Labels
   If you ship frequently, switch from paper to thermal labels to avoid ink costs. Labels come in rolls or stacks and work with printers like the Rollo or DYMO 4XL.
4. Shipping Label Printer
   A dedicated thermal printer produces smudge-free labels that are easier for carriers to scan. It also reduces prep time and printing errors. Look for cashback deals on hardware through apps like Rakuten or Ibotta.
5. Digital Postal Scale
   An accurate scale ensures you’re applying the correct postage. Many shipping platforms—like Pirate Ship or ShipStation—calculate postage based on weight and dimensions, so precision is essential.
6. Bubble Wrap or Void Fill
   Protect your items in transit using bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or kraft paper. The right fill reduces damage and keeps products secure inside the box.
7. Scissors or Box Cutters
   Keep sturdy cutting tools on hand to trim labels, tape, and boxes to fit your needs.
8. Return Address Labels or Stamps
   Make returns easier for your customers by including a pre-printed return label or having a stamp with your business address for outgoing packages.
9. Fragile and Handle-With-Care Stickers
   These low-cost labels signal handlers to take extra care with delicate items. They’re especially important for glassware, electronics, and handmade goods.
10. Storage and Organization Bins
    Keep your supplies organized in bins, drawers, or shelving units. When shipping volume increases, an organized space ensures you stay efficient and minimize errors.

Where to buy and save
You can buy shipping supplies online with cashback by using gift cards through Fluz or shopping via Rakuten and Ibotta. For example, you can get Office Depot at a discount with a gift card from Fluz, or stack rewards by combining Fluz with store loyalty programs like Staples Rewards.