Here are a few sources for great custom stamps, envelopes and more!
SLOT TEMPLATE
To make sure your Slotbox is folded properly and not overstuffed, fitting the Canada Post 20mm slot.
1) Here on the SLOTBOX website you can buy a wood template that has the 20mm Oversize letttermail slot.
2) If you prefer acrylic, RAINETTE DESIGN - offers a really nice acrylic slot template that has both the 20mm Oversize slot and the 5mm standard slot. You can order from their Etsy shop. www.etsy.com/ca/shop/RainetteDesign
3) CANADA POST - The Official template used by the counter clerks. Product # 540008029. It is acrylic, has both the 5mm and 20mm slot as well as the length and width template.
STAMPS COMBINATIONS FOR OVERSIZE LETTERMAIL
THESE ARE PRESENT RATES : RATE INCREASE COMING MAY 6TH, 2024.
Skip the post office lineup
100g - $1.94 postage = $1.94 stamp
100g-200g - $3.19 postage = $1.94 stamp + $1.30 stamp
200g-300g - $4.44 postage = $2.71 stamp + 2 x $0.92 stamp
300g-400g = $5.09 postage = 4 x $1.30 stamp
400g-500g = $5.47 postage = $2.71 stamps + 3 x .92 stamp
RUBBER STAMPING
Dress up or brand your box
Leave your mark on the Slotbox! Find a stock stamp or get a custom logo stamp made. Stamp the box before you fold it into a box to get best crisp image.
R AND M RUBBER STAMP - www.fastrubberstamps.ca
FOREST FOX PRESS - www.etsy.com/ca/shop/ForestFoxPress
MICHAELS CANADA - www.canada.michaels.com
ENVELOPES
To send your Slotbox in when mailing
The end opening style “catalogue envelope”is preferred. Do not use a bubble mailer.
Small Box Envelope - 5 7/8” x 9 5/8”
Medium Box Envelope - 5 7/8” x 9 5/8” is a perfect snug fit, or for a little more room the 6.5” x 9.5” has some extra space.
Large Box Envelope - 9” x 12” or 10” x 13” are both great choices.
XL Box Envelope - 10” x 13” is a squeeze but can work, or go larger.
DIGITAL SCALES
To weigh your mail for accurate postage
When it comes to buying a scale, you do not need a fancy expensive one. A standard kitchen scale meant for lighter items will do the trick.
Canadian Tire, The Bay, or any kitchen store will have scales. Of course, you can find them on-line too.
LOGOS
A great brand starts with a great logo
Design your own on a graphic design platform or hire a great mind to do it for you.
CANVA - www.canava.com
FIVERR - www.fiverr.com
PLASTIC-FREE PACKING SUPPLIES
Every little bit helps when reducing the use of plastics in packaging
Paper products do come from a renewable resource, our friend the mighty tree! Switching over to paper is better option to stop the landfills filling up with plastics (like bubble mailers) Try and find paper products that carry the SFI or FSC certification or made with recycled content. Here are a few suggestions to replace your plastics in packaging.
Water-Activated packing tape - is 100% recyclable! find it at www.ecoenclose.com or www.ecompack.ca
Zero-Waste shipping labels - both liner and label are 100% recyclable. www.ecoenclose.com
Washi-Tape - is made from wood pulp and plant based adhesives, 100% recyclable if you choose washi tapes that have no foil! Michaels has a great selection as well as specialty stores that sell paper products like wrapping paper and scrapbooking materials.