Where to Buy Postal Tubes in the UK: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
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Postal tubes are essential for shipping fragile, rolled, or oversized items. Whether you’re sending a cherished piece of art, architectural blueprints, or marketing materials, postal tubes ensure your items arrive safely and undamaged.
However, with so many suppliers and options available, finding the right cardboard postal tubes in the UK can be overwhelming.
This guide simplifies your search by covering Royal Mail guidelines, top suppliers, and expert tips to make your shipping experience smooth and efficient.
By the end, you will know exactly where to buy durable, affordable postal tubes in the UK that comply with all regulations.
1. What Are Postal Tubes?
Postal tubes (also called mailing tubes or document tubes) are cylindrical containers designed to protect rolled items during transit. They’re commonly made from cardboard, though plastic and waterproof variants exist.
Key Features:
- Durable Construction: Most tubes use thick, crush-resistant cardboard (2mm+ walls).
- Adjustable Sizes: Diameters range from 25mm (for certificates) to 100mm+ (for posters or textiles). Lengths extend up to 1.5 meters.
- Secure Closures: End caps or tamper-proof tape keep contents intact.
Common Uses:
- Mailing posters, blueprints, or artwork.
- Storing documents, fabrics, or photography rolls.
- Shipping delicate items like vinyl records or musical instrument parts.
Pro Tip: Always choose a tube slightly longer than your item to prevent bending.
2. Cardboard Postal Tubes: The Eco-Friendly Champion
Cardboard postal tubes dominate the market for their sustainability and versatility. Here’s why they’re ideal for UK senders:
Advantages:
- Recyclable & Biodegradable: Unlike plastic, cardboard decomposes naturally.
- Lightweight: Reduces shipping costs compared to bulkier packaging.
- Customizable: Brands can print logos, instructions, or designs directly onto tubes.
When to Avoid Cardboard:
- For shipping liquids or extremely heavy items.
- In highly humid environments (opt for waterproof tubes instead).
Eco-Friendly Alternatives:
- Recycled Cardboard Tubes: Suppliers like EcoCraft use 100% recycled materials.
- Reusable Tubes: Invest in heavy-duty tubes for multiple shipments.
3. Royal Mail Guidelines for Postal Tubes (2025 Update)
To avoid rejected parcels or extra fees, your postal tubes Royal Mail must comply with their latest rules:
Size & Weight Limits:
Maximum Length: 90cm (for Standard Parcels).
Combined Dimensions: Length + width ≤ 104cm.
Weight:
- Standard Parcel: Up to 2kg.
- Parcelforce: Up to 20kg (for oversized items).
Labeling & Packaging:
Address Clarity: Use waterproof labels and bold fonts.
Return Address: Mandatory for all UK parcels.
Prohibited Items: Check Royal Mail’s restricted list (e.g., aerosols, sharp objects).
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Surcharges: Up to £4 for oversized parcels.
Rejection: Non-compliant items are returned to the sender.
Pro Tip: Use Royal Mail’s Online Price Finder to calculate postage costs upfront.
4. Where to Buy Postal Tubes in the UK: Top 7 Suppliers
1. Crystal Mailing (Best Overall)
Why Buy Here: Specializes in Royal Mail-approved postal tubes with reinforced edges and waterproof options.
Price Range: £3–£5 per tube (bulk discounts available).
Standout Feature: Offers custom-branded tubes for businesses.
Visit: Crystal Mailing.
2. Amazon UK
Best For: Urgent orders with Prime delivery.
Brands to Try: PostPack, TubeGuard.
3. eBay UK
Watch For: Seller ratings and reviews before purchasing.
4. Packaging Supermarket
Discounts: Save 15% on orders of 50+ tubes.
5. Post Office Stores
Ideal For: Last-minute needs (limited size options).
6. Staples & Ryman
Heavy-Duty Tubes: Ideal for fragile or high-value items.
7. EcoCraft (Sustainable Choice)
Eco-Perks: Carbon-neutral shipping and recycled materials.
5. How to Choose the Right Postal Tube: 5 Key Factors
1. Size & Dimensions
Measure your item’s length and diameter.
Allow 5–10cm extra space to prevent compression.
2. Material Thickness
Standard Items: 2mm walls.
Fragile Items: 3mm+ walls with bubble wrap lining.
3. Waterproofing
Essential for shipping to rainy regions or via sea freight.
4. Price vs. Quantity
Small Orders: Buy from Amazon or eBay.
Large Orders: Crystal Mailing or Packaging Supermarket offer bulk rates.
5. Sustainability
Look for FSC-certified or recycled cardboard.
6. Step-by-Step: How to Pack Items in Postal Tubes
Follow this guide to ensure safe delivery:
- Roll Your Item: Use acid-free tissue paper for artwork.
- Insert Cushioning: Add bubble wrap or foam sleeves.
- Secure the Ends: Use strong packing tape or plastic end caps.
- Label Clearly: Include delivery and return addresses.
For More Tips: Read Crystal Mailing’s Expert Guide to Using Postal Tubes.
FAQs About Postal Tubes
Q: Can I reuse postal tubes?
A: Yes! Ensure they’re structurally sound and replace damaged end caps.
Q: Are postal tubes waterproof?A: Standard cardboard tubes aren’t—opt for poly-coated or plastic tubes for wet conditions.
Q: Do Royal Mail provide free postal tubes?
A: No, but some third-party sellers include free shipping labels.
Q: How much does it cost to post a tube in the UK?
A: Starts at £3.00 for Standard Parcels (up to 2kg).
Conclusion:
Finding the right postal tubes UK doesn’t have to be a headache. For unbeatable quality, compliance, and eco-friendly options, Crystal Mailing stands out as the top choice. Their Royal Mail-approved cardboard postal tubes come in all sizes, with bulk discounts for businesses.