The global courier, express, and parcel market was valued at $370.69 billion in 2020, so it's hard to imagine that shipping boxes could meet the needs of every customer. Cardboard mailing tubes fulfill a particular niche in personal and commercial shipping for posters, documents, canvas, and similar items. Many companies offer custom mailing tubes that can meet any specifications you require.

You have several choices to make that can help your mailing tubes stand out from the crowd. This guide will cover four factors you should consider when purchasing custom mailing tubes.

1. Material Quality

Not all mailing tubes are made of the same material or constructed with the same quality. A thick cardboard tube will do a much better job at protecting important documents than a thin plastic or paperboard tube. Mailing tubes with thicker walls will generally provide better protection, so don't forget this important metric when choosing the dimensions of your custom mailing tubes.

Many custom mailing tube manufacturers offer tubes made of fully recycled materials for eco-conscious shippers. These recycled paperboard or cardboard tubes can be further recycled once they reach the end of their life, eliminating the environmental impact of shipping waste for your shipments.

2. Shape

Most shipping tubes are cylindrical because this is the easiest shape to manufacture, but that doesn't mean you're limited to round shipping tubes. Triangular and square shipping tubes are popular alternatives because they are stackable and have excellent structural support. Square mailing tubes are popular for large-scale commercial or wholesale shipments to optimize storage space.

Adjustable mailing tubes have a telescopic design that allows them to be used for shipments of varying sizes. Telescopic mailing tubes are spiral wound like standard cylindrical tubes, but they are often made of more durable materials to withstand multiple uses and adjustments. Most telescopic mailing tubes feature end caps that you simply fit over each end and secure with packing tape.

3. Features

There are a few extra features to consider that could enhance the durability and convenience of your custom mailing tubes. Many manufacturers offer self-sealing mailing tubes that do not require end caps. Instead, these tubes have foldable ends that can be closed without any additional packing materials. Self-sealing tubes are a good option for lightweight items that can be stored lying down.

If you are shipping fragile items, padded mailing tubes are a worthwhile upgrade. Padded mailing tubes are lined with cushioning material such as bubble wrap to provide superior protection. Many padded mailers have reinforced corners and locking end caps to further protect your items.

4. Design

The factors above are important functional considerations for custom mailing tubes, but the design of your mailing tubes makes a critical impression. Custom mailing tube manufacturers offer graphic printing services that allow you to create virtually any design for your packaging. Printed mailing tubes can help you build brand recognition for your business or add a personal touch to a parcel for a friend.

Your custom mailing tube manufacturer should give you tools to create your design exactly as you envision. Many manufacturers have online design tools that help you visualize your graphics before you place your order. Some manufacturers even employ professional graphic designers who can build on your specifications and create highly marketable graphics that surpass expectations.

The dimensions of the item you need to ship should never prevent you from enjoying the convenience of postal and parcel services. Contact a custom mailing tube manufacturer for mailing tubes made to your exact size, material, and design specifications. With custom mailing tubes, you can be sure your items reach their destination safely with a style that is uniquely your own.