Top Places to Purchase Mailing Tubes Online and In-Store

Finding the right mailing tubes for your shipping needs can be challenging with so many options available. Whether you're sending artwork, posters, blueprints, or documents, selecting the appropriate supplier ensures you get durable, cost-effective tubes that protect your items during transit. This guide explores the best places to buy mailing tubes both online and in physical stores.

Understanding Mailing Tubes: Types and Uses

Mailing tubes come in various materials, diameters, and lengths to accommodate different items. The most common types include:

• Cardboard mailing tubes: Economical and recyclable
• Plastic mailing tubes: Waterproof and highly durable
• Adjustable tubes: Expandable for various document sizes
• Heavy-duty tubes: Reinforced for valuable or fragile items

When selecting where to buy mailing tubes, consider the specific requirements of your shipment. For artwork or prints, specialized tubes with protective features may be necessary, as discussed in our guide on mailers for art prints.

Top Online Retailers for Purchasing Mailing Tubes

E-commerce Giants

Major online marketplaces offer extensive selections of mailing tubes with competitive pricing:

• Amazon: Wide variety of sizes, bulk options, and fast shipping
• Walmart.com: Economical options with store pickup available
• eBay: Often features discounted or wholesale lots

Specialized Packaging Suppliers

Dedicated packaging websites provide professional-grade options:

• Uline: Comprehensive selection with volume discounts
• Packaging Supply: Specializes in custom sizes and printing
• Staples.com: Business-focused with reliable quality

When ordering online, check shipping costs as these can significantly impact the total price. Many suppliers offer free shipping on orders above a certain threshold, similar to strategies used by protective packaging suppliers who provide specialized containers for sensitive items.

Brick-and-Mortar Stores That Sell Quality Mailing Tubes

Office Supply Stores

These retailers offer convenience and immediate availability:

• Staples: Stocks standard sizes with professional assistance
• Office Depot/OfficeMax: Reliable selection of shipping supplies
• Local office supply stores: May offer personalized service

Shipping Centers

Perfect for one-off shipping needs:

• UPS Store: Provides tubes and packaging services
• FedEx Office: Offers tubes compatible with their shipping services
• USPS Post Offices: Limited selection but convenient for immediate mailing

Physical stores are ideal when you need a mailing tube immediately or want to inspect the quality before purchasing. This approach is similar to buying other shipping materials like packing tape or shipping boxes, where hands-on assessment can be valuable.

Specialty Options for Custom and Bulk Mailing Tubes

For businesses with specific requirements or high-volume needs:

Custom Manufacturers

• Paper Tubes and Sales: Specializes in custom diameters and lengths
• Chicago Mailing Tube Co.: Offers branded and custom-printed tubes
• Yazoo Mills: Industrial-grade tubes with wholesale pricing

Eco-Friendly Options

Sustainable alternatives are increasingly available:

• EcoEnclose: Offers 100% recycled and recyclable tubes
• The Green Office: Environmentally conscious shipping supplies
• PackagingPrice: Biodegradable and compostable options

When considering specialty suppliers, request samples before placing large orders to ensure the tubes meet your quality standards and size requirements.

Cost Comparison Across Different Suppliers

Prices for standard 2" x 24" mailing tubes typically range as follows:

• Big box retailers (online): $1-2 per tube in packs of 25+
• Specialty packaging suppliers: $0.75-1.50 per tube in bulk
• Office supply stores (in-person): $2-4 per tube for individual purchase
• Shipping centers: $3-7 per tube with packaging service

Costs vary based on material quality, quantity purchased, and whether additional features like end caps or custom printing are included. For businesses, buying in bulk from wholesale suppliers offers significant savings, similar to strategies for purchasing other shipping supplies like duct tape in quantity.

Choosing the Right Mailing Tube for Your Needs

Consider these factors when selecting where to buy mailing tubes:

Material Considerations

• Cardboard: Economical but less moisture-resistant
• Plastic: Waterproof but more expensive
• Kraft paper: Eco-friendly with moderate durability

Size and Strength Factors

• Wall thickness: Heavier items need thicker walls
• Diameter: Must accommodate your items with room for protective wrapping
• Length: Should exceed your item's length by at least 2 inches on each end

For valuable items like artwork or documents, prioritize quality over cost. The right tube provides protection similar to that offered by padded envelopes for smaller flat items.

Future Purchasing Trends for Shipping Supplies

The market for mailing tubes continues to evolve with several notable trends:

• Increased availability of eco-friendly and biodegradable options
• Growth in customizable and branded shipping supplies for businesses
• Expansion of subscription models for regular shipping supply delivery
• Integration with shipping software for size and cost optimization

As e-commerce continues to grow, expect more specialized suppliers to enter the market with innovative solutions for document and poster shipping. The convenience of online ordering combined with sustainable materials represents the future direction of the mailing tube market.

Whether you're a business shipping products regularly or an individual sending occasional items, understanding where to buy mailing tubes that meet your specific needs ensures your items arrive safely while optimizing your shipping budget.