Most office paper, available in packages of various sizes, qualifies as multipurpose paper. Buy office paper in small packages for special projects or a carton containing reams of 500 sheets for everyday use. Multipurpose paper information includes a description of the characteristics of the paper.

Multipurpose paper costs less than other types of paper, especially when they serve a specific purpose rather than a general one.

1. Weight is the amount of pounds 5000 sheets of a given paper weighs. Most multipurpose paper for offices weighs 20 or 24 pounds.

2. Size refers to the dimensions of each individual page, with 8 1/2 by 11 inches being the most common.

3. Finish refers to the type of surface, whether it is smooth or linen or some other surface texture.

4. Color can be a simple, primary color or a more subtle shade of off-white or light gray.

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

Find multipurpose paper for office use for sale online

Offices use the most paper in computer printers and fax machines. If your office uses large quantities of paper, consult a multipurpose paper list to find the best price. Take shipping cost into account and look for vendors who offer free shipping on bulk orders to save money.

I recommend: Choose from several brands and sizes of multipurpose office paper at Quill, a low-price office supply vendor since 1956. Find varieties of color and white multipurpose paper and get free shipping on large orders at Discount Office Items.

Choose a multipurpose paper provider that sells recycled paper

Manufacturers label recycled paper to identify the amount of post-industrial and post-consumer matter it contains. Post-industrial material is a by-product of manufacturing, while post-consumer waste is the paper you put in your recycle bin. Some companies verify their labels via a third party examination.

I recommend: Choose and compare brands of recycled and regular multipurpose office paper for sale at TheGreenOffice.com, where symbols tell you at a glance which products are recycled, biodegradable or have reduced chemical content. Buy from a multipurpose paper provider that sells only recycled or tree-free, fiber paper when you buy from GreenLine Paper Company.

Buy multipurpose paper in assorted colors and styles for special uses

Choose colored paper to make a flyer that will catch the attention of its intended audience. Print a postcard on stiff cardstock to mail to your customers. Buy textured paper for a unique look to your office correspondence.

I recommend: Shop for office paper in a variety of styles and colors, including carbonless, cardstock, colored paper and envelopes at Paper.com. Choose from a huge array of paper that you can use for various purposes at Paper Direct's multipurpose paper directory, or inventory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you plan to print on multipurpose paper using a computer printer, check the printer's manual to see what type of paper it will accept. If your printer jams when using thicker paper, try using the manual-feed slot to feed one sheet at a time.