How to Save Money on Packaging and Office Supplies
For small businesses, packaging and office supplies are often viewed as fixed costs—but they don’t have to be. With the right sourcing strategy and tools, you can save a significant amount on the items you use daily, from shipping tape and thermal labels to envelopes and printers. Here’s how to cut costs and stretch your budget without sacrificing quality.
Buy in bulk from trusted retailers
Big-box retailers like Office Depot, Staples, and Walmart offer deep discounts on packaging materials and office supplies when you buy in higher volumes. Stocking up on commonly used items like bubble mailers, printer paper, pens, and tape can lower your per-unit cost—and eliminate last-minute runs to overpriced stores.
Earn cashback on every purchase
Apps like Fluz let you earn cashback with a Staples gift card or save on shipping materials with a gift card for Office Depot. These gift cards are available in real time—even while standing in line at checkout—and can be used online or in-store. Fluz members can stack cashback earnings on top of store discounts and loyalty rewards, making it a high-value strategy for frequent buyers.
Leverage loyalty and rewards programs
Join retailer loyalty programs like Staples Rewards or Office Depot Rewards to earn points on every purchase. These programs often include exclusive coupons, ink recycling bonuses, and member-only promotions.
Use Rakuten and Ibotta for online supply orders
Cashback portals like Rakuten and Ibotta frequently feature bonus deals at supply stores. These apps offer browser extensions that alert you to available rebates and apply them automatically when shopping online.
Consider private-label and eco-friendly alternatives
Most major retailers offer private-label packaging and office supply brands that are functionally equivalent to name brands—often at 20–40% less. If sustainability matters to your brand, look for eco-friendly options like recycled mailers or refillable pens that reduce long-term costs.
Track spending and reorder smartly
Use inventory management tools or accounting platforms like QuickBooks or Zoho Books to track how much you’re spending on packaging and office supplies each month. Setting reorder points prevents emergency buys and allows you to time purchases with sales or cashback opportunities.
Final thoughts
Reducing operational costs starts with how you buy the basics. By combining cashback tools like Fluz, leveraging loyalty programs, and buying smart, you can turn everyday business purchases into strategic savings that directly improve your bottom line.
