Protective packaging

Something which surrounds and protects the parcel directly

Bubble wrap: Plastic sheets which have been filled with air pockets. Requires an up-front cost to produce or purchase; however if stored it can be recycled for outgoing packages to bring the ongoing costs down.

Void fill

Stuffed between the parcel and the container

When void fill is needed: If the parcel is able to rattle around inside when the box is sealed up

Kinds of void fill

Packing paper: Typically recycled craft paper. Just fold it up and stuff it in there.

Craft paper: Paper which is specifically recycled; typically just thrown in there to fill space.

Crinkle paper: Basically just shredded paper you throw in the box.

Air pillows: Plastic bags which have been filled with air

Packing peanuts: Styrofoam (or similar) objects in various shapes. Meant to be poured in to a box after the contents are inserted.