Selecting the GSM for paper bags requires careful consideration to ensure they serve their purpose well while being environmentally friendly and affordable. The GSM also defines the thickness and strength of the paper used in the production of the bag so that it can be filled to its maximum capacity with goods of a certain weight and be of high quality.
Notably, 70 percent of consumers consider paper bags durable because they can hold heavier items, while 74 percent prefer environmentally friendly bags. A paper bag’s GSM has a massive and direct impact on its strength, so manufacturers and users must be conscious of GSM.
What you’ll learn in this blog?
This blog will discuss the most commonly used GSM ranges, their use cases, their pros and cons, and tips to help everyone choose the right one for their needs.
Finding the Ideal GSM for Your Paper Bags
Selecting the appropriate GSM for your paper bags is crucial to guarantee that they will be functional and visually appealing. This, through GSM, typically gives the thickness, strength, and durability of the paper and, of course, the usability of the paper.
What is the Best GSM for Paper Bags?
Paper bags usually come between 100 and 200 GSM sizes, with definite ranges more appropriate for various uses. Below are the most ordinary types of GSM: lightweight, Medium, and
Heavyweight, so you can decide what type will fulfill your requirements.
Lightweight Bags (100-130 GSM)
Small, lightweight paper bags, ranging from 100 to 130gsm, have been developed for packaging small, light items.
Best Use Cases: These bags can pack clothes/ garments, accessories, or even lighter groceries. They are commonly used in advertisement campaigns, gift boxes, and anything for one-time use, including takeaway food containers.
Advantages: Less materials are used during the production of the GSM range of bags, which helps save the environment and is cheap. Due to their lightweight, they are versatile and can be stored or transported easily on most occasions. Most companies prefer these bags for advertising because the patent surface of these bags is better suited for printed slogans and logos.
Considerations: These bags are easily affordable and mobile. They are made of thin material and cannot carry heavy or bulky objects. They are most appropriate for short-term situations where density is insignificant.
To learn how to choose paper bags, click here to read our guide.
Medium-weight Bags (130-160 GSM)
Medium-weight paper bags offer an ideal balance between durability and flexibility, making them versatile for various needs.
Best Use Cases: These bags are commonly used for carrying items like books, cosmetics, or moderate groceries. Retail businesses, bookstores, and specialty shops often opt for medium-weight bags to combine strength with an attractive appearance.
Advantages: Bags in this range are sturdy enough to hold moderately heavy items without tearing while maintaining a sleek, professional look. They are an excellent choice for businesses that want durable yet affordable packaging. Their balance of strength and flexibility makes them practical for customers to reuse, enhancing your brand’s visibility.
Considerations: Medium-weight bags may incur some costs compared with lightweight bags, but they are more durable. Nonetheless, the reliability obtained usually offsets the cost for businesses with more valuable products.
Heavyweight Bags (160-200+ GSM)
Heavyweight paper bags are the best choice for the highest durability and strength.
Best Use Cases: These bags are commonly used to convey commodities like books, cosmetics, and other moderate groceries. Small and medium retailers, especially companies like bookstores and other specialty stores, prefer to purchase middle-weight bags due to their lengthy durability and outlook.
Advantages: When used to carry medium-weight products, these bags do not tear or rip at the seams yet have a classy look. They are especially appropriate for business organizations that need strong and inexpensive packing material. This aspect of strength yet flexibility makes the containers reusable by customers, enhancing brand visibility.
Considerations: Compared to other bags, these bags require more material to make, which may reduce their environmental friendliness. They also generally cost more than the standard alternatives. However, given their longevity and more luxurious or industrial appearance, they are perfect for use with higher-end or more robust designs.
How to Select the Best GSM
The most appropriate GSM for your paper bags will depend on your business’s needs. Bags of 100GSM- 130GSM are expensive and inexpensive for occasional use with minimal weight or once-off purchases. Medium-weight bags between 130 and 160 GSM are preferred for strength. They are affordable and suitable for most retail applications. Branding bags larger than 160 GSM suit high-end branding or extra heaviness.
Having found a reliable paper bag manufacturing company like Nova Machinery, you will be advised on the right GSM. It is easier for us to advise you on the material you require, the type of design that can work best for you, and other sustainable choices that we know will suit you. Selecting an appropriate GSM can improve customer satisfaction, support your organizational branding efforts, and help improve environmental performance. Contact us for more details.
