Shipping Tubes
Shipping Tubes
Shipping tubes are made specifically for shipping or storing items like posters, artwork, banners, and other items that can be “rolled up” without becoming damaged. Shipping tubes are very beneficial for these types of items because they provide protection for the item while allowing it to hold it shape. Unlike a flat mailer or box that could allow shifting of the contents, shipping tubes will keep your item free from creases and ready to use when it reaches its destination or comes out of storage.
Types of Shipping Tubes
Shipping tubes are available in a plethora of sizes, from small to extra large. There are also custom made shipping tube options available for those people who have a product that they ship regularly or need a particular size shipping tube for unique piece of art. Customized shipping tubes are typically quite expensive, unless you place a bulk order. Most shipping tubes are made from corrugated cardboard, although some may be made of plastic or other materials.
Shipping Tubes and the United States Postal Service
The United States Postal Service or USPS allows “fiberboard” tubes and “similar long containers” to travel through the U.S. mail system if they meet certain specifications.
• The length of the shipping tube must not exceed ten time the shipping tube’s girth. To accurately measure girth, measure the total distance around the shipping tube at its widest point.
• All seams of the shipping tube must be reinforced with quality tape, even if the shipping tube features friction closures that slide.
• The strength of the shipping tube must be equal (at minimum) to the shipping tube’s sidewall strength, unless the contents are very lightweight, like a poster.
• The strength of the shipping tube’s sidewalls must be equal to solid fiberboard that meets the following specifications:
• tubes less than 18 inches in length – 1/16th inch thick
• tubes 18 inches to 32 inches in length – 3/32nd inch thick
• tubes exceeding 32 inches in length – 5/32nd inch thick
Buying Shipping Tubes
You can purchase shipping tubes at your local office supply or shipping supply store, from the U.S. Postal Service, or from various retailers who do business online. Many online retailers offer significant savings on quality constructed shipping tubes, and also give a discount for larger orders of multiple quantities. When shopping online, look for shipping tubes from retailers who offer free or reduced shipping rates to save even more.