Rigid mailer envelope
Rigid chipboard back, peel-and-seal500 minimum · 8 to 10 business daysA rigid mailer envelope is a flat mailer with a stiff chipboard back panel built into the envelope so documents, photos, cards, or other thin flat goods ship without bending or creasing in transit, closed with a peel-and-seal strip. We produce them from 500 units, ready in about 8 to 10 business days after proof.
When to choose it, and when not to
Choose a rigid mailer envelope for shipping prints, trading cards, certificates, or any flat item that damages if it bends, where a padded poly mailer doesn't provide enough back support and a full box is more packaging than the item needs.
Choose a padded poly mailer instead if your item can tolerate light bending or has some cushioning built in, since a rigid mailer costs more per unit than a standard poly mailer and the rigidity is only worth it for genuinely bend-sensitive items.
Specifications
| Back panel | Rigid chipboard insert built into the mailer structure |
|---|---|
| Front | Kraft or white paper, printable exterior |
| Closure | Peel-and-seal adhesive strip |
| Up to full CMYK coverage on the exterior | |
| Fit | Sized flat to your document or card dimensions plus clearance |
| Minimum | 500 units |
| Lead time | 8 to 10 business days after proof |
| Prototype | On request; timing confirmed in your quote |
| Sizes we run | 6 x 9 in (photo or greeting card size) 9 x 12 in (standard document size) custom size to your flat item |
Materials that suit it
Questions people ask
How rigid is the back panel, will it actually prevent bending in a mail truck?
The chipboard back is stiff enough to resist normal handling and light stacking in transit. For an especially fragile flat item like a signed print, we'd still recommend confirming your specific item's tolerance with a sample first.
Can you print full color on the front panel?
Yes, full CMYK coverage is available on the exterior front panel. The back stays plain chipboard by default unless you want it printed too.
What size clearance should I build in around my document?
We typically recommend a quarter inch of clearance on each side so the item slides in and out easily without the edges catching. Send us your exact document size and we'll confirm the mailer dimensions.
Is the peel-and-seal strip secure enough for shipping without tape?
Yes, it's rated for standard mail handling, so no additional tape is needed for normal shipping.
Can these go through standard mail sorting equipment?
At most common sizes, yes. If you're targeting a specific postal rate class, let us know the exact size and weight limits and we'll confirm the mailer fits.
Do you offer a branded interior print or just the exterior?
Exterior print is standard. Tell us if you want interior branding and we can quote that as an add.
How is the rigid mailer envelope different from the bubble mailer?
The rigid mailer protects flat things from bending: a chipboard back panel built into a kraft or white paper envelope with a peel-and-seal strip, sized to your document or card, from 500 units in 8 to 10 business days after proof. The bubble mailer protects small objects from knocks with a bubble lining but bends freely, from 250 units in 8 to 10 business days. Prints, photos and trading cards suit the rigid mailer.
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Ready to price your rigid mailer envelope?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Your digital proof follows, usually within one business day of your artwork. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.