What Are Compostable Courier Bags and How Do They Work?

If you run an online business, packaging is part of your everyday routine. But as more customers pay attention to what their orders arrive in, it’s no surprise that compostable courier bags are popping up as a better way to ship.

The good news? These bags are tough, earth-friendly, and designed to fit right into your process, without sacrificing quality. Let’s take a closer look at what compostable courier bags are, how they work, and why they’re a smart move for your business.

What Makes a Courier Bag Compostable Instead of Just Biodegradable?

There’s a lot of talk around "biodegradable" vs "compostable" packaging, and it can get confusing. So here’s the simple version:

Biodegradable means the material will break down eventually, but that could take years, and not all biodegradable items break down cleanly. Some still leave microplastics behind. Compostable bags, on the other hand, are made from plant-based materials (like cornstarch and PLA) and are designed to fully break down into non-toxic elements. That means no harmful leftovers and no guilt in the bin. Compostable is the better bet if you’re trying to reduce your packaging impact for real.

How Do Compostable Courier Bags Work?

These bags are designed to break down in compost, either at home or at a commercial facility. In a home compost bin, the breakdown can take a few months, depending on heat, moisture and what else you’re composting. In an industrial compost setup, the process is faster, often under 90 days.

But like most compostables, they won’t do much good in landfill. Without oxygen and the right conditions, they’ll just sit there. That’s why it’s worth learning about proper disposal (we’ll cover that soon) and helping your customers do the same.

Are Compostable Mailers Strong and Durable Enough for Shipping?

Short answer? Yep.

Compostable mailers are tougher than you might expect. They’re water-resistant, tear-resistant, and designed to get through the post without falling apart. Most come with a self-sealing strip, and some even include a second strip so your customer can reuse the bag for returns.

At Awesome Pack, we test our compostable satchels to handle the demands of Aussie shipping, because eco shouldn’t mean flimsy.

What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using Compostable Courier Bags?

Choosing compostable courier bags isn’t just about ticking a green box. It’s about real change, less plastic, fewer fossil fuels, and a lighter footprint overall.

These bags help:

• Cut down plastic waste
• Reduce emissions tied to petroleum-based materials
• Keep packaging out of landfill (when composted properly)
  

Plus, they send a clear message to your customers: You care. And that’s something people notice. In fact, choosing eco-friendly packaging is one of the easiest ways to build loyalty and stand out.

How Should You Dispose of Compostable Courier Bags Properly?

Here’s the part that really makes a difference: disposal.

If your bag says “home compostable,” you can pop it in your backyard compost bin. Just tear it into smaller pieces to speed things up. If it says “industrial compost only,” you’ll need to send it to a facility equipped for the job.

Here’s what not to do:

• Don’t recycle them, they’ll contaminate the recycling stream
  Don’t toss them in general waste (unless there’s no other option)
  
  

Make the Switch to Compostable Courier Bags

Switching to compostable courier bags doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s one of those small, smart changes that adds up over time, for your customers, your business, and the environment. If you’re ready to reduce plastic in your parcels, we’ve got what you need. At Awesome Pack, we stock a wide range of compostable satchels that are home compostable, strong, and ready to use in your shipping setup.

Whether you're sending clothing, accessories or handmade goods, our range is built for eCommerce brands that care. Need help choosing the right size? Want a custom order? Just head over to our custom quote page or contact us for personalised advice. We're always happy to help you find the right fit.

Let’s make your parcels awesome for the planet and your people.