Packaging is the first physical contact a customer has with an online store. The right shipping boxes protect products, control courier costs and create a good impression. This guide covers choosing shipping boxes for e-commerce in Pakistan and beyond, with our free Shipping Box Calculator to size them.
How many sizes?
Most small stores manage well with three to five box sizes matched to their common orders. Too few sizes means wasted space; too many complicates stock.
Box types
| Type | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular slotted carton (RSC) | General shipping | Cheapest, flaps meet in the middle |
| Mailer box (die-cut, tuck front) | Subscription boxes, gifts, apparel | Neat, brandable, no tape needed on top |
| Poly mailer | Clothing, soft goods | Light and compact |
| Padded envelope | Small items, books | Some protection, low volume |
Board strength
For most single items, 3-ply (single-wall) board is enough. Heavy or fragile items, and parcels travelling long distances, benefit from 5-ply. Read box strength tests.
Cost considerations
- Plain brown RSCs are cheapest.
- Printed mailer boxes cost more but improve unboxing.
- Ordering in bulk lowers the per-box price.
Calculate cost per order with the Packaging Cost Calculator.
Branding on a budget
Use plain boxes with a branded sticker, tape or a printed insert card, rather than fully printed boxes, until volumes grow.
Returns
Boxes that can be reused for returns (with a second adhesive strip, for example) are convenient for customers in fashion and footwear.
Sizing for couriers
Couriers charge by actual or volumetric weight. Smaller boxes save money; see the Volumetric Weight Calculator.
Stock planning
Track how many boxes of each size you use weekly and reorder before running out. Use the Packaging Quantity Calculator.
For box sizing, read how to choose the right box size.
Frequently asked questions
How many box sizes should an online store keep?
Usually three to five sizes that match common orders.
Are mailer boxes better than regular cartons?
They look better and are easier to open, but cost more.
Is 3-ply strong enough for e-commerce?
For most light to medium items, yes.