Post and Packaging Explained

Paying for postage is something that nobody likes. Including me! However, running a small business I find it a necessary evil part of being able to function. I get asked many times about why I charge postage costs. So i thought I would explain it here, Step by Step with a final basic rundown of costs.

Bubble wrap

Each item is then securely bubble wrapped to form the first line of protection for shipping. The black wrapping still withholding the surprise.

Black tissue paper

Nearly all of my indoor items are first wrapped in a black tissue paper. The response I get from people saying how they feel when finally unwrapping their item make the moment more special. This is especially important if the item is a gift being sent from another address.

Custom fit boxes and void filling

Nearly all of my items have a box which suits a particular item. This means items are wrapped more securely, need less void filler which means cutting down on waste. I also use recycled void filler where I can, but due to the volume I ship I can not always get enough recycled material. I do however purchased recycled paper which is also much cleaner.

Void Filler

The void filler then protects the item from impacts during transit. I have found this method to be the best for my items.

Thank you and correspondance

The next step is a thank you card, I used to hand write each card, but to be honest, wrapping parcels takes a lot of time from my building time. Usually 2 hours each morning. Any time save is vital for me to produce the next days items. Plus the card is readable, unlike my handwriting.
I sign the card, add any other leaflets or correspondence to the parcel.

Seal and label

The final step is sealing the parcel and labeling with a professional printed address label (not shown).

Each parcel can take 15 minutes to wrap.
With the Box, tissue paper, Bubble wrap, Assorted tapes, Void filler, Labelling, Time to wrap, Time to travel to the post office each item costs approximately £5 before I have even paid the postage at the post office.

A small Parcel from Royal Mail is £4.25 as of 2025. This leaves £0.74 to contribute to the costs above.

This unfortunately is why I have to charge postage.

I cover those material costs. All i ask is help to cover the actually shipping costs. I have tried my best to keep my item prices low. I only charge a single postage cost regardless of item quantity as i believe this is fairer for the customers who purchase more than one item.

Postage costs for Bonsai trees and very large items is at a higher rate depending on the tree for the same reasons as above.

I hope you understand. After asking my customers opinions on my postage, the feedback remains that the standard at which i wrap and ship my items is worth the cost. I am working out a loyalty program, This will also allow returning customers to redeem points to further save on their purchases.

Thank you, and i hope to supply you with something in the future!