Guide to Pricing and Costs of Bags

Get pricing estimates for cellophane, flat poly and zip closure plastic bags

By J.R. Glass

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find pricing information on polyethylene bags

Flat poly bags have a multitude of uses, from food storage to clothing packaging. These packaging pouches are not self-sealing and require the separate purchase of bag closing devices. Vendors recommend that you do not use this type of bag for storing any type of liquid. You can purchase small polyethylene bags for just over $20 per 1000, while larger bags will sell for around $100 per 1000.

I recommend: Look for a wide variety of flat poly retail bags at the Associated Bag Company. PolyBagSupplies.com provides a guide to flat poly bag dimensions and sells a variety of poly bags.

Figure the cost of cellophane merchandise bags

Cellophane packaging bags are good for many uses and offer an attractive way to package products. You can seal cellophane bags with a zip closure or a heat-sealing machine to offer tamper-evident packaging and keep edible products fresh. You can also use ribbon, twist ties, rubber bands or self-sticking labels to close your cellophane bags. Companies price large cellophane bags around $70 per 1000, while smaller bags will cost around $50 per 1000.

I recommend: A wholesale provider of cellophane retail packaging is Cello Bags.com. It has a tutorial on its website, outlining the features of true cellophane bags. Fetpak is another provider of cellophane bags. In addition to bags, it sells accessories to go with them.

Get estimates for zip closure plastic bags

Zip closure bags are handy for storing random items, packaging food, packaging non-consumables and many other uses. Zip closure bags are available in many different sizes and styles, including tamper-evident bags that are heat sealed at the bottom. Zip closure bags range from $50 for 1000 small bags and $120 for larger bags.

I recommend: Bison Bag offers custom bagging solutions for its clients, including zip closure plastic bags. Visit GreatWholesalePrices.com to learn some of the environmental benefits of zip closure bags. Learn how using these bags to help the environment can also help your pocket book.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many companies will send free samples of their bags before you purchase. Request samples from several companies so you can compare the quality of the bags versus the pricing.