If you are passionate about the importance of being eco-friendly, then boy have we covered a great topic for you here: reusing Amazon shipping boxes!

At every point in our life, we have reused one thing or another for a completely different purpose. However, there’s a trick to finding out which boxes can be reused for packaging and shipping and which can’t.

First, there are the single lined boxes and double lined boxes, then the packing peanuts and finally, the bubble wrap. Yes, every single time can be reused but you have to carefully inspect them to make sure they are not damaged. So, before you head to your nearest home depot to buy packaging supplies, give this article a read.

Let us help you decide when to reuse supplies, and when it’s smarter not to:

When to Reuse Boxes

You Will Save Money

Why spend money on packing boxes when you have the perfect ones sitting in your home. Inspect the box from every angle and take measurements. With so many deliveries made over the year, you are bound to discover one matching your needs.

You Will Save Time

In order to find the perfect box for shipping, you start with the measurements of the object. Why waste your time with this when you can simply try placing the object in all the boxes you have and then choose the best fitting one!

Going Green

Always be on the lookout to keep boxes handy. No matter what you are ordering, save the box and place them in a dry area. So, now you are saving money, your time and reducing your carbon footprint in the world.

When Not to Reuse Boxes

Broken Boxes

There are single lined boxes and double lined boxes. The latter can be reused even if you find the outer box a little damaged. However, if you find that both cardboard walls are damaged then its better you throw out the box. There’s a possibility the bottom or a single might give out and expose the object inside.

Using Non-Shipping Supplies

Every once in awhile, you get an order and the box is not the right material to be used again. You can’t exactly pack your Louboutins in a plastic bag for shipping. Then there are diaper boxes, cereal boxes and more. These boxes are not at all sturdy and become soft after first use.

Bubble Wrap

Everyone likes to pop those little air pockets. Yes, it’s fun.  No, you cannot use it again. If the bubble wrap doesn’t provide a pillow-y cushion, then you might as well have wrapped your object in a plastic sheet.

Dented Box

A dented box puts pressure on the object. If the flaps are weak and small then when the boxes will be stacked, the top box might put too much pressure on the one at the bottom.

So, now you know when to reuse shipping boxes and which ones would make a sturdy package. Better be on the lookout for every box coming into your house, to see if it can be reused or not.