How the Slotbox came to be!

Hi,

I am Sarah Mulligan, a professional glass artisan as well as the creator of the first shipping friendly thin box mailer, the SLOTBOX. The box is a game changer for many Canadian makers, Etsy sellers, entrepreneurs and small businesses as it gives them the means to mail items for as little as a $2.09 stamp by Canada Post Lettermail instead of expensive parcel rates. An average savings of +$14 or more!

Back in 2014, thin box mailers to fit Canada Post Non-Standard/Oversize Lettermail was not really a thing. Myself, and other on-line sellers relied on creative ways to beat the Canada Post 20mm “Slot of Doom” as we called it. There were videos on Youtube demonstrating how to trim down a jewelry box with a box cutter or fashioning cardboard inserts to use in bubble mailers.

I found it odd that such a product was not widely available and saw a need in the marketplace. So, in the spring of 2015 I started approaching box companies to produce a thin box designed specifically to fit 20mm Oversize Lettermail. I settled on a company in British Columbia. They were Canadian made, up to 60% recycled content, and SFI certified! Local, sturdy, sustainable… It was a great fit for my Slotbox vision.

The very first version of the SLOTBOX in 2015 was not user friendly and I had to go back to the drawing board. This time working with a production manager of the box factory, the design was changed to what it is today; a sturdy double walled foldable box mailer. The small size was introduced in early 2016. To reach makers, I handed out samples at artisan craft markets. Word quickly spread as and I received lots of high fives from happy makers thrilled to see a box fit Non-Standard/Oversize Lettermail. The SLOTBOX was off and running! With the success of the small, medium and large sizes were soon to follow, and as with all good ideas, the copycat competitors began to pop up as well.

I strive to make the box better, so after receiving feedback from customers the medium box was redesigned to be a touch larger to fit an A2 greeting card. Next came the option for a kraft brown box. This past year came the new XL size and coming soon in 2024; there is something in the works, but that reveal will have to wait!

The SLOTBOX is made by a maker for makers! I care about customers success with the box and am proud to offer a well-made, Canadian product at a good price. You can rely on mailing tips, resource information, honest business practises like refunds on shipping overages and great customer service. These are the cornerstones of the success of the Slotbox!

We all dream of the day when Canada Post abolishes the 20mm Slot, but in the meantime, the SLOTBOX is your little box buddy here to help your business grow and shine!

Thank you!

Sarah:)