Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer? (Postage Rules) - ImprintNow.Com
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Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer? Stamps Limit, USPS Rules, And How To Mail

When it comes to sending packages, many people ask whether you can put stamps on a bubble mailer. The answer depends on factors like size, weight, and postage class for these lightweight and protective solutions for mailing small items.

In this guide, we explain how to send a bubble mailer with stamps and whether padded envelopes can be sent with stamps. We also walk you through best practices to ensure your mailer reaches its destination safely.

Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer? Stamps Limit, USPS Rules, And How To Mail

Key Takeaways

  • You can use stamps on a bubble mailer but only under certain USPS conditions - weight and thickness determine whether a mailer counts as a letter or a package.
  • Improper postage can result in delays or rejections, and you should always check if bubble mailer stamps meet current USPS postage rates.
  • Correct stamp placement is important to ensure your package is machine-readable, and we recommend printed labels for better tracking and security.
  • We supply high-quality custom bubble mailers that can be tailored to your business and offer secure packaging and ample space for stamps and other postage.

Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer?

You can put stamps on a bubble mailer, but there are some caveats. The United States Postal Service allows stamps on bubble mailers if they meet First-Class letter requirements, meaning they must be:

  • Under 3.5 ounces
  • No thicker than ¾-inch

These are strict guidelines. Most bubble mailers exceed these limits, so they will have to be treated as packages. For personal use, hand-stamped bubble mailers are fine, as long as postage covers the full rate. Commercial mailers should use printed labels for tracking and compliance.


Many confuse padded mailers with standard envelopes, but the difference affects how USPS handles them. Avoid this mistake when using promotional products like custom mailers and understand how to mail a bubble mailer properly.

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How To Send A Bubble Mailer With Stamps Correctly?

To mail a bubble mailer with stamps, start by weighing your mailer on a postal scale. Then, check if it meets the criteria for First-Class mail (under 3.5 ounces and no more than ¾-inch thick).

Here are some other tips:

  • Apply the appropriate number of stamps based on USPS postage rates.
  • Affix the stamps neatly in the top-right corner.
  • Clearly write both the sender and recipient addresses, avoiding folds or seams.
  • Drop the mailer in an approved mailbox or take it to your local post office.

These steps will ensure compliance and accurate delivery. If you need reliable packaging, work with us to create custom matte bubble mailers with your branded designs and enjoy generous wholesale discounts and protective bubble mailers you can send with stamps or other postage solutions.

Step

Description

1. Weigh Your Mailer

Use a postal scale to weigh the bubble mailer accurately.

2. Check USPS Criteria

Ensure the mailer qualifies as First-Class mail: under 3.5 ounces and no thicker than ¾ inch.

3. Apply Stamps

Attach the correct number of stamps according to USPS postage rates.

4. Stamp Placement

Affix stamps neatly in the top-right corner of the mailer.

5. Write Addresses

Clearly write sender and recipient addresses, avoiding folds or seams.

6. Mail the Mailer

Drop it in an approved mailbox or bring it to your local post office for mailing.

How To Put Postage On A Bubble Mailer To Avoid Rejection?

When applying stamps on bubble mailer packaging, placement is everything. Always place stamps in the upper-right corner of the front side, well away from seams, folds, or textured areas.

U.S. Postal Service market reports suggest that stamps should lie flat to be efficiently read by automated scanners. If you apply stamps crookedly or over uneven surfaces, you may find that your mailer is:

  • Delayed
  • Rejected
  • Returned

Ensure that the number of stamps equals the postage required for the mailer’s weight class. Don’t rely on guessing - use a scale or consult USPS guidelines. Incorrect postage may result in non-delivery or even fines.

Whether you’re learning how to address bubble mailer packages or avoid rejection, precision is essential when using stamps.

Looking for a bubble mailer with ample space for postage?

We design our matte bubble mailers for easy, practical postage, and you can personalize the design to match your business or brand and send products safely.

How To Ship A Bubble Mailer Safely Without It Getting Damaged?

To ship a bubble mailer safely, protect the contents inside. Wrap fragile items in extra cushioning, such as tissue, foam, or additional bubble wrap to supplement the packaging.

Here are some more tips for safe shipping:

  • Seal all items with strong packing tape, particularly if the self-adhesive flap isn’t reliable.
  • Avoid overfilling, as this can strain the seams and cause the mailer to burst during transit.
  • Consider a waterproof poly layer or insert a plastic sleeve if you expect rough handling or weather exposure.
  • Use legible, bold ink when writing addresses to prevent smudging.
  • Weigh the filled mailer to determine the appropriate postage and choose between First-Class and Priority Mail based on the weight.


Bubble mailers are among the most popular types of promotional products that businesses use, but it is crucial to understand how to ship a bubble package properly to make the right impression.

How Many Stamps To Put On A Bubble Mailer Of Any Size?

Determining how many stamps to put on a bubble mailer depends on the size, weight, and thickness of your mailer. For smaller sizes, like 6x9 inches weighing under 1 ounce, one First-Class Forever stamp will usually be sufficient.

Larger mailers, like one that measures 9x12 inches, often exceeds the letter rate and will require additional postage or Priority Mail services. The USPS charges postage based on weight tiers, each requiring extra stamps or labels.


If your poly mailer weighs over 3.5 ounces or exceeds ¾-inch in thickness, it must be treated as a package with corresponding postage. To avoid errors on this front, always weigh your mailer accurately before you post it. Use multiple stamps as needed to ensure no delays in transit or returns.

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Create a stunning holographic bubble mailer

Work with us to personalize your holographic bubble mailer and make a visual impact with your packaging, and enjoy ample space for stamps or other postage.

Learn more

What Happens If You Don’t Put Enough Stamps On A Bubble Mailer?

Failing to affix sufficient postage on a bubble mailer can result in serious issues. The USPS will typically mark your mailer as “postage due” and may return it to the sender or delay delivery. In some cases, unpaid or underpaid packages risk fines or might even be discarded.

Recipients may be asked to pay the difference, which will be inconvenient and is likely to damage your reputation. Avoid this by weighing your mailer accurately and applying the correct number of stamps or labels - sending a custom coffee mug will cost more than shipping a handmade clothing patch, for example.


If you are unsure, visit a postal clerk or use a self-service kiosk to verify postage. Understanding how to send a bubble mailer with stamps correctly prevents unnecessary headaches and ensures prompt successful delivery every time.

Where To Put Stamp On Bubble Mailer For Best Visibility?

The best spot to put a stamp on a bubble mailer is the upper-right corner on the front side. This placement complies with USPS automated sorting equipment and allows easy scanning. Avoid placing stamps over seams, folds, or textured areas, as this can cause rejection or machine errors.

If your mailer has a printed label with barcodes, place stamps so they don’t obscure the barcode or address information. Always find a flat, smooth surface to apply labels and stamps to your mailer for optimal adhesion.


With proper stamp placement, you will ensure your mailer is processed efficiently and avoid delays or returns. If you’re asking where to put a stamp on a bubble mailer, or how to combine stamps and labels, follow USPS guidelines closely for best results.

Want a practical alternative to bubble mailers for your mailing needs?

Our custom poly mailers are simple but effective, allowing for customized designs and attaching stamps and other postage in the appropriate position for efficient handling.

Do You Need A Shipping Label For A Bubble Mailer If Using Stamps?

Using stamps on a bubble mailer doesn’t always require a shipping label. For a small, lightweight mailer that qualifies as First-Class mail, handwritten addresses with the best gel pens or permanent markers, or printed labels paired with stamps are usually sufficient.

However, if your mailer exceeds size or weight limits, USPS requires a printed shipping label with postage paid via online services or at the post office.

The benefits of labels are that they:

  • Provide tracking
  • Reduce errors
  • Improve delivery speed


For businesses, how to address a bubble mailer with a shipping label is preferred for professionalism and reliability. Many customers find that using prepaid labels or USPS Click-N-Ship options reduces confusion compared to relying solely on stamps.

Is A Padded Envelope Considered A Package By USPS?

USPS often classifies padded envelopes, like bubble mailers, as packages if they exceed certain dimensions or thicknesses. The threshold is usually as follows:

  • Thickness of ¾-inch
  • Weight of 3.5 ounces

When these limits are surpassed, the mailer is treated as a parcel rather than a letter. In turn, this affects postage rates and delivery methods. This classification means you can’t simply apply stamps as with regular letters.


Researchers have been working on ways to make bubble wrap more sustainable, including reducing its size, but sending padded envelopes with stamps in the current climate means carefully considering these factors. Do what you need to do to avoid postage mistakes and fines, and opt for printed labels with proper postage where needed.

Send larger packages with ease

We also supply custom shipping boxes that offer a large, protective parcel for your items and allow clear spaces for postage and customs documents for your convenience.

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Can You Put Padded Envelopes In A Mailbox With Stamps?

You can place small padded envelopes with stamps in your mailbox if they meet USPS size and weight requirements. If your bubble mailer is less than 3.5 ounces and fits easily, the mail carrier will collect it during pickup. However, large mailers may not fit in the mailbox, or require you to raise the red flag to signal outgoing mail.

Oversized padded envelopes should be taken directly to a post office or approved drop box in order to avoid delivery issues. This is how to use custom printed promotional items like mailers and other packaging solutions.


Many wonder if you can mail a bubble mailer with stamps directly from home. The answer is yes, but only if your mailer fits the USPS mailbox standards. Otherwise, take it to the post office for proper handling.

Why Do You Use Bubble Mailers Instead Of Boxes Or Flat Envelopes?

Bubble mailers offer superior protection compared to flat envelopes and are more cost-effective and lightweight than boxes. The built-in cushioning safeguards fragile or delicate items during shipping, such as:

  • Electronics
  • Jewelry
  • Books

Bubble mailers also require less postage than bulky boxes, making delivery simpler. Unlike flat envelopes, our custom holographic bubble mailers prevent crushing and moisture damage, and they look great doing it.


Many businesses and individuals prefer bubble mailers for secure shipping without extra packaging waste. Understanding how to mail bubble mailers correctly maximizes these benefits, combining affordability, protection, and convenience. They are a preferred choice for many shipping needs.

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How Much Does A Bubble Mailer Weigh On Average?

On average, an empty bubble mailer weighs between 0.5 and 1.5 ounces, depending on size and material thickness. When filled, weights vary - custom embroidered patches weigh less than personalized t-shirts, for example.

Light objects like documents might add little weight, but heavier goods significantly increase postage. USPS bases postage primarily on overall weight, so knowing what your mailer weighs helps avoid overpayment or underpayment. We recommend that you use a digital postage scale to ensure accuracy.


Many users ask how to fill out a bubble mailer properly to avoid damage or postage errors. Our custom mailers are designed for lightweight durability, helping reduce shipping costs. With accuracy weighing your mailer, you can consistently apply the correct postage and avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer

Can You Put Stamps On A Bubble Mailer Or Not?

Yes, if your mailer meets USPS size and weight requirements. It needs to be less than 3.5 ounces in weight and under ¾-inch thickness.

How Many Stamps For A 9x12 Bubble Envelope?

It usually takes two or more, depending on the weight and thickness of the envelope. In some cases, you may need to get a shipping label as stamps will not be sufficient.

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