Can I Reuse Compostable Courier Bags? (And Other FAQs Answered)

As more New Zealand businesses turn to sustainable packaging, compostable courier bags are gaining popularity. But how do they work? Can you reuse them? How long do they last? In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about compostable courier bags to help you make informed, eco-friendly packaging choices.

Can I Reuse Compostable Courier Bags?

Yes, you can reuse compostable courier bags—but with care. These bags are made from plant-based materials like PLA, PBAT, and cornstarch, designed to break down under composting conditions. While they’re durable enough for shipping, they aren't built for repeated long-term use like traditional plastic.

If you or your customers plan to reuse them:

• Keep them dry and clean

• Avoid exposure to heat or sunlight, which can speed up degradation

• Use within their intended shelf life, usually around 9–12 months

For businesses offering returns, compostable bags with resealable adhesive strips are a great solution for single reuse.

How Long Do Compostable Courier Bags Last?

Under normal storage conditions (cool, dry, dark), most compostable courier bags last between 9–12 months. Their lifespan may be shorter if exposed to moisture or sunlight. Always check the packaging date or batch information to ensure product integrity.

How Should Customers Dispose of Them?

Compostable courier bags should be disposed of in home compost bins (if certified home compostable) or commercial composting facilities. Certifications to look for include:

• AS 5810 (home compostable)

• AS 4736 or EN 13432 (commercial compostable)

Avoid throwing them in the recycling bin or general landfill—they are designed to decompose in compost environments, not in traditional waste streams.

What Are They Made From? 

Compostable courier bags are typically made from:

• Corn starch

• PLA (polylactic acid)

• PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate)

These materials offer the strength needed for delivery while breaking down into non-toxic organic matter in compost systems.

Are Compostable Bags Waterproof and Strong?

Yes, high-quality compostable courier bags are water-resistant and tear-resistant, comparable to plastic courier bags in everyday use. However, they may weaken over time if repeatedly exposed to moisture or handled roughly.

To see how compostable courier bags can do more than just replace plastic, read our article: How Compostable Courier Bags Help Your Business Stand Out. It covers the benefits beyond durability—like customer perception, brand image, and sustainability leadership in New Zealand.

Why Choose Compostable Bags Over Plastic?

For New Zealand businesses committed to sustainability, compostable bags:

• Help reduce landfill waste

• Appeal to eco-conscious customers

• Align with your brand’s green values

• Are a visible part of your sustainability efforts.

For a deeper comparison between compostable and plastic options, be sure to read our article: Compostable Courier Bags vs Plastic: What’s Better for NZ Businesses?. It breaks down the pros and cons of each to help Kiwi businesses make smarter, more sustainable packaging choices.

Can I Use Them for Returns?

Absolutely. Compostable courier bags with resealable adhesive strips are a smart choice for managing returns sustainably. These bags allow your customers to reseal and reuse the same packaging, minimising waste and enhancing convenience. It's a simple yet effective way to reduce your business’s environmental footprint while reinforcing your commitment to eco-friendly practices.

How Do Compostable Bags Compare to Biodegradable Ones?

While both types break down over time, compostable bags must meet strict standards to decompose fully and safely in composting environments, leaving no toxins behind. Biodegradable/degradable simply means the material will break down eventually, but may leave residues or take much longer.

Look for certifications like AS 5810 or EN 13432 to ensure the product is truly compostable.

How Should I Store Compostable Courier Bags?

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, or humidity. Ideally, keep them in sealed packaging or airtight storage bins to avoid exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate degradation. Compostable materials are sensitive to environmental conditions, so proper storage is essential to maintain their strength and usability.

Do You Offer Compostable Courier Bags in Bulk?

Yes—Insinc Products supplies bulk quantities suitable for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a growing online shop or a nationwide logistics provider, we can tailor supply volumes to meet your operational needs. Our bulk offerings are competitively priced and designed to ensure your business always has eco-friendly courier solutions on hand.

Why Buy Compostable Courier Bags from Insinc Products?

At Insinc Products, we supply certified compostable courier bags designed for New Zealand conditions. Our bags are tough enough for transit, gentle on the planet, and available in various sizes to suit eCommerce retailers, couriers, and commercial users.

Conclusion

Compostable courier bags are a smart, sustainable solution for modern NZ businesses. While not designed for long-term reuse, they are durable enough for one-time or short-term use and help you meet customer expectations around eco-friendliness. Make the switch with confidence—and make a difference.