Custom Paper Bag Sizes and Handle Types: A Complete Buyer Reference
Quick facts: Custom Printed Paper Bags
- Indicative unit price: about US$0.10–0.30 per bag. This is a guide, not a quotation: the final price depends on size, material, print colours, finish and order quantity.
- MOQ: typically from 500 pcs per size and artwork; the confirmed minimum depends on material, print method and features and is stated on the quotation.
- Lead time: Physical samples 5–7 working days after artwork is confirmed; bulk production 20–30 days after sample approval.
- Who makes it: BestPackFactory’s own factory in Longhua District, Shenzhen, China. Free dieline and artwork proof within 24 hours. See real samples and videos.
- Specifications and quote: Custom Printed Paper Bags · Request a quote
GSM ratings, handle types—twisted, flat, rope—gusset options and printing specs for custom paper shopping bags.
Custom paper bags are a staple for retail brands, food service operators, trade show exhibitors and luxury boutiques. Ordering the right bag requires understanding the relationship between paper weight, handle type, bag dimensions and printing method. This guide covers the key decisions a B2B buyer needs to make before sending an RFQ to a factory.
Standard Paper Bag Sizes
Paper bag sizes are typically specified in the format: Width × Depth × Height (all in mm), where Depth is the side gusset. Common sizes by industry segment:
| Use Case | Typical Size (W×D×H mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jewellery / small gifts | 150×80×200 | No gusset or small side gusset |
| Boutique retail (medium) | 250×110×310 | Most popular luxury retail size |
| Apparel | 320×130×420 | Needs 120gsm+ for folded garments |
| Food takeaway (medium) | 220×120×280 | Grease-resistant coating recommended |
| Grocery / supermarket | 320×160×390 | Strong flat handle or rope handle |
| Trade show / conference | 380×120×420 | A4 document size; cotton or PP rope |
Paper Weight (GSM) Selection
The paper weight determines load capacity, print quality and price. Key benchmarks:
- 80–90gsm: Light-duty, single use. Suitable for small boutique bags carrying items under 500g. Poor tear resistance when wet.
- 100–120gsm: Standard retail. Suitable for most gift shops, fashion retail, and food service up to 1.5kg.
- 140–157gsm: Heavy-duty retail. Suitable for carrying garments, multiple items, or for premium brands where durability matters.
- 170–200gsm: Ultra-premium. Used by luxury fashion houses. Provides excellent stiffness and an upscale feel.
For kraft paper bags, the equivalent natural kraft weights are 70–90gsm (light), 100–120gsm (standard), and 135–150gsm (heavy duty).
Handle Types Compared
- Twisted paper handle: Made from twisted kraft paper rope. Most economical. Load capacity 2–5kg. Available in matching or contrasting colour. Best for mid-market retail bags.
- Flat die-cut handle: Handle is cut into the top of the bag. No separate handle material. Lowest cost. Limited to light items under 1kg. Common for fast food bags.
- Cotton ribbon handle: Flat woven ribbon, typically 15–20mm wide. Premium feel. 5–8kg capacity. Used for luxury boutiques and high-end gift bags.
- PP rope handle: Polypropylene cord. Very strong (8–12kg capacity). Weatherproof. Common for trade show bags and grocery use.
- Paper cord handle: Twisted paper yarn. Eco-friendly. 3–6kg capacity. Increasingly popular as a sustainable alternative to cotton.
Printing Methods for Paper Bags
The printing method depends on order quantity and required print quality:
- Offset litho (sheet-fed): Highest quality, sharpest detail, accurate Pantone matching. Best for 2,000+ pieces.
- Flexo printing: Good for simple designs. Lower plate cost. Suitable for 500–5,000 pieces with 1–4 colours.
- Digital printing: No plate cost, full colour, suitable for short runs of 500–1,000 pieces. Slightly lower colour gamut than offset on uncoated stock.
Key Specifications to Include in Your RFQ
Send your factory the following when requesting a quotation:
- Bag dimensions: W × D × H in mm
- Paper type (coated art paper / natural kraft / white kraft) and GSM
- Handle type, colour and attachment method
- Printing: number of colours or CMYK + Pantone reference codes
- Finishing (lamination, spot UV, foil stamping if any)
- Quantity, destination country and required delivery date
Ready to Order? Get a Factory Quote
BestPackFactory manufactures custom packaging direct from our Shenzhen factory. MOQ 500 PCS, free dieline support, worldwide shipping. Response within 24 hours.
Email: lisa@colorprintingpackage.com | WhatsApp: +86 158 8653 0985
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