How to Package Candles for Shipping Safely & Prevent Melting

The best way to package candles for shipping is to use sturdy candle shipping boxes, proper cushioning, and heat protection to prevent breakage and melting. Whether you're running a candle business or sending gifts, proper packaging ensures your candles arrive in perfect condition.

Key Factors for Packaging Candles for Shipping:

Choose the right candle packaging – Secure, protective materials prevent damage.
Use strong cushioning – Bubble wrap, foam inserts, and crinkle paper absorb impact.
Prevent melting – Insulated packaging helps regulate temperature during transit.
Label packages correctly – Marking shipments as "fragile" ensures careful handling.

Now, let’s go over the best methods for shipping fragile candles while keeping them well-protected and professionally packaged.

1. Choosing the Right Candle Packaging for Shipping

Not all packaging materials work for candles. Since they are fragile, heavy, and heat-sensitive, choosing the right materials is key.

Best Packaging Materials for Candles:

Candle shipping boxes – Sturdy, crush-resistant boxes prevent breakage.
Bubble wrap vs. foam inserts – Bubble wrap protects individual candles, while foam inserts keep them stable.
Packing peanuts or crinkle paper – Fills empty space to prevent movement.
Shrink wrap – Protects wax from dust and adds an extra barrier.

For eco-friendly candle packaging, consider biodegradable packing peanuts, recyclable cardboard dividers, or paper-based cushioning to keep your shipments both secure and sustainable.

2. How to Package Candles for Shipping Without Damage

Follow these steps to ensure candles arrive intact:

Wrap each candle individually – Use bubble wrap or foam sheets to prevent scratches or breakage.
Choose the right candle shipping boxes – Use a snug-fitting box to avoid excess empty space.
Use dividers for multiple candles – Cardboard inserts help keep glass jars or tins separate.
Fill all empty space – Packing peanuts or crinkle paper cushion the candles and absorb shock.
Seal the box securely – Use heavy-duty packing tape to reinforce the edges.

For glass jar candles, add extra padding around the base and lid to prevent cracks. If using tin candle containers, wrap them to avoid denting in transit.

3. Preventing Candles from Melting During Shipping

Heat is one of the biggest concerns when shipping candles, especially in warm climates. Here’s how to protect candles from melting:

Use insulated packaging – Thermal liners help maintain stable temperatures.
Choose the best way to ship candles – Faster shipping methods (like UPS 2-day or FedEx Express) reduce heat exposure.
Avoid shipping in extreme heat – If possible, ship early in the morning to minimize heat exposure.
Include cold packs – For sensitive wax blends, cold packs can help regulate temperature.

How to ship candles in summer? If you’re shipping during hot months, consider using heat-resistant mailers, temperature-controlled shipping, or insulated candle packaging to prevent warping or softening.

4. Best Boxes & Containers for Candle Shipping

Choosing the right container and shipping box is essential to protect candles during shipping.

How to Choose the Right Candle Shipping Box:

For jar candles → Use a sturdy box with dividers and foam inserts to prevent glass breakage.
For pillar candles → Wrap individually and use a tightly fitting box to prevent movement.
For tin candles → While lightweight, they still need padding to avoid dents.
For wax melts → Use airtight plastic clamshells to keep the shape intact.

If you run an online store, custom candle packaging helps enhance branding while keeping products safe. Adding labels for candles to your packaging improves presentation and provides important product details.

5. Packaging Candles for Retail & Markets

If you sell candles at markets, craft fairs, or in retail stores, packaging should be both protective and visually appealing.

Use branded boxes or wraps – Packaging should reflect your candle business branding.
Include clear product labels – Customers should easily see scent details, burn time, and ingredients.
Consider window packaging – Allows customers to see the candle before purchasing.
Use tamper-evident seals – Ensures product safety and builds trust with buyers.

For selling in stores, eye-catching labels for candles help establish your brand while providing compliance information and product details.

Ship Candles Securely with Custom Labels

Whether you're shipping candles for an online store or preparing them for retail, proper packaging prevents breakage, melting, and damage. Using the right materials, protective inserts, and sturdy candle shipping boxes ensures your products arrive safely and professionally presented.

Wizard Labels is here if you need labels for candles. Our custom-printed labels withstand heat, wax exposure, and handling—perfect for branding and compliance.

By the way, if you are brand new to candle making, check out our article “What Are Labels for Candles Made Of?”

Order My Candle Labels Now

FAQs About Candle Packaging

What are the different types of candle packaging?

Candle packaging varies based on the type of candle and its intended use. Glass jars, metal tins, and ceramic vessels are popular for premium candles, while cardboard tubes and shrink wrapping work well for budget-friendly options.
For shipping, corrugated boxes with protective cushioning offer the best protection against damage.

What type of container is best for candles?

The best container depends on the candle’s style and purpose. Glass jars are widely used due to their heat resistance and aesthetic appeal, while metal tins are lightweight, durable, and great for travel.
Concrete, ceramic, and wooden containers add a luxury feel but require proper sealing to prevent wax seepage.

What are the different types of candle containers?

Candle containers come in various materials, each with unique benefits. Glass jars provide a sleek, classic look and allow customers to see the wax, while metal tins are portable and shatterproof.
Ceramic holders and wooden bowls create a rustic or high-end aesthetic, and silicone molds are used for flexible, novelty-shaped candles.

How to package candles to sell?

For retail, candle packaging should be both visually appealing and protective. Branded boxes, custom labels, and tamper-proof seals enhance product presentation while ensuring safety.
Adding ingredient details, burn time, and usage instructions on the packaging helps customers make informed purchasing decisions.