No matter how efficient your shipping process is, the cost of supplies can quietly eat away at your budget. Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, mailers — they all add up, especially if you’re sending packages regularly. The good news is, you don’t need to spend a fortune on brand-new supplies to ship safely and securely. With a little creativity and a few smart strategies, you can find affordable shipping materials just about anywhere.

Here’s how to source quality shipping supplies without overpaying.

Tap Into Local Retailers and Community Resources

Before you turn to expensive shipping supply stores, check with local businesses. Many grocery stores, bookstores, and department stores have an abundance of clean, gently used boxes they’re happy to give away. Just ask the staff if they have extras from their latest deliveries.

Additionally, community groups and neighborhood apps often have listings where people give away or trade packing materials. Moving season, in particular, is a great time to snag free boxes and protective fillers.

For even more ideas on sourcing affordable supplies, browse helpful resources at Orbit Express. While they don’t sell packaging directly, their guides offer practical tips on keeping your shipping routine cost-effective.

Buy in Bulk to Cut Costs

Purchasing supplies individually at retail prices gets expensive quickly. Buying in bulk lowers the per-item cost of boxes, bubble wrap, and labels. Wholesale clubs and office supply retailers offer bulk discounts, and many online marketplaces also provide bulk rates for small businesses and home shippers alike.

If you’re a regular shipper, consider creating a simple inventory list so you can restock efficiently when prices are low.

Use Fluz for Cashback on Shipping Supplies

Another smart way to reduce your supply costs is to use cashback apps like Fluz. Fluz allows you to purchase discounted gift cards for popular office supply and big-box retailers. When you use these gift cards to buy shipping materials, you earn instant cashback — essentially giving yourself a discount on every purchase.

What makes Fluz especially helpful is that it stacks well with store promotions and bulk pricing. You’re not only saving on supplies but maximizing your total return with layered savings strategies.

Repurpose What You Already Have

You might be surprised how many reusable packing materials you already have at home. Padded envelopes from online orders, sturdy boxes from previous shipments, and even shredded paper make excellent fillers and protective layers.

Just make sure to inspect any reused materials for durability. The goal is to save money without compromising the safety of your package.

Opt for Lightweight Alternatives

Packaging weight contributes directly to shipping costs, especially with carriers that factor dimensional weight into their pricing. Lightweight alternatives like poly mailers for soft goods or recycled paper cushioning instead of bulky bubble wrap can keep both your material and shipping costs down.

Minimalist packaging isn’t just affordable — it’s also eco-friendly, which can appeal to customers if you run a small business.

Take Advantage of Seasonal Clearance Sales

Retailers often discount seasonal shipping supplies after major holidays. Stocking up during these clearance events means you’ll have a ready supply of boxes, tape, and decorative fillers at a fraction of the regular price.

Keep an eye out after the winter holidays or back-to-school season, when stores clear their inventory and offer steep discounts.