Custom paper shopping bags are an excellent way for businesses to reinforce brand identity, provide practical packaging, and showcase their values such as sustainability and professionalism. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through why personalized paper bags are beneficial, what key terms and specifications you should understand, and how to select the perfect custom paper bag for your business.
The Benefits of Personalized Shopping Bags for Businesses
Brand Awareness – A custom bag with your logo and design can turn every customer into a brand ambassador, spreading your message wherever they go.
Professional Presentation – Tailored packaging reflects the quality and professionalism of your brand.
Customer Experience – High-quality, customized packaging adds to the overall shopping experience and makes your business memorable.
Sustainability Statement – Choosing eco-friendly materials demonstrates environmental responsibility.
Why Use Custom Paper Bags?
Eco-Friendly: Recyclable and biodegradable, unlike plastic bags.
Cost-Effective Marketing: Branded bags promote your business long after purchase.
Versatile Design Options: Various sizes, styles, and vibrant printing options.
Regulatory Compliance: Compliant with plastic bag bans in many regions.
Understanding Basic Paper Bag Terminology
Paper Basis Weight
The weight in pounds of 500 sheets of paper in its uncut size. Common in North America (e.g., 40 lb, 60 lb).
Paper Grammage (GSM)
Grams per square meter. Higher GSM means thicker paper:
80-100 GSM: Lightweight
120-150 GSM: Standard retail use
180-250 GSM: Premium quality
Points (PT)
Thickness used for paperboard, e.g., 12pt ≈ 0.012 inches.
What’s the Difference Between GSM and PT?
GSM: Measures weight of paper
PT: Measures thickness of cardboard
Gussets
Folded panels allowing expansion:
Side gussets: Horizontal expansion
Bottom gussets: Vertical expansion
Flat Bottom Design
Allows the bag to stand upright—ideal for food, gifts, and retail packaging.
Choosing the Right Paper Bag
1. Type of Business
Retail: Medium bags with handles
Food: Grease-resistant materials
Luxury: Premium finishes and heavy stock
2. Volume and Size of the Product
Match the bag dimensions to your product’s size and weight.
3. Paper Bag Styles and Purpose
Flat handle bags
Twisted handle bags
Die-cut handle bags
Luxury rope handle bags
Takeaway food bags
4. Paper Bag Materials
Kraft paper (brown or white)
Coated paper (gloss/matte)
Art paper
Recycled paper
5. Design Elements and Printing
Offset printing (high quality)
Flexographic printing (cost-effective)
Screen printing (bold designs)
Enhancements: embossing, foil stamping, UV gloss, CMYK full-color printing.
6. Customization
Handle types: twisted, flat, rope, ribbon
Lamination: matte/gloss
Add-ons: windows, ribbons, stickers, tags
7. How Much Do Paper Bags Cost?
Factors affecting cost:
Size, material, GSM
Printing complexity and color count
Quantity (bulk = lower unit cost)
Custom finishes
Example: Basic kraft bag ≈ $0.20; luxury rope handle bag ≈ $1.00+
Choosing the Right Manufacturer
Specialization in paper packaging
Certifications (FSC, ISO, etc.)
Printing and customization capabilities
MOQ options
Production and delivery time
Dongdianpackaging Is Here to Help
At Dongdianpackaging, we offer fully customizable paper shopping bags for businesses of all sizes. With over 10 years of experience, advanced printing technology, and a focus on sustainability, we ensure your brand shines through packaging.
Our services include:
Free design consultation
Low minimum order quantities
Eco-friendly materials
Full customization: handles, sizes, finishes, printing
Worldwide on-time delivery
Let’s make your brand shine—one bag at a time.
