Paper Bags Key Terms

Familiarize yourself with paper bags key terms for making the most educated purchasing decisions

By Angela King, Freelance Writer

Paper bags are a staple in businesses to package and store goods. Available in a plethora of types, styles and sizes; paper bags are an affordable, eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags. From kraft paper bags and reinforced paper bags to promotional paper bag products, paper bags exist to fulfill your needs at affordable prices to meet any budget.

Whether you are a paper bag supplier or use a variety of paper bags in your business, familiarize yourself with paper bags key terms to ensure you choose the best paper bags for your unique needs.

Kraft or "millinery" paper bags

Kraft paper bags, also referred to as "millinery" paper bags, are made from heavy, rough brown paper. Standard grocery bags and paper bags used to wrap products are generally made from kraft paper.
Try: Devon International offers more information on kraft paper bags.

Promotional paper bags

Promotional paper bags are bags imprinted with a business name, logo or slogan. Promotional paper bags are a cost effective way to advertise a business or promotional event.
Try: Read about the advantages of promotional paper bags at epromos.com.

Reinforced paper bags

Reinforced paper bags have extra pleats to increase the strength of the paper bag. Often made with fiberglass material, reinforced paper bags resist tearing. Typical grocery bags are reinforced to withstand the extra weight of groceries.
Try: Aplasticbag.com shows examples of reinforced paper bags with the advantages of using reinforced paper bags for specific product needs.

Bakery paper bags

Bakery paper bags are resealable, lined bags constructed to keep food fresh and moisture-free. Bakery paper bags should meet USDA and FDA regulations.
Try: Paper Bag Manufacturers offers examples of the kinds of bakery paper bags available.

Paper bag weight

Paper bag weight refers to how heavy the paper is that makes the paper bag. Paper bag weight directly affects how much weight the paper bag can hold without tearing.
Try: An excerpt from The Handbook of Packaging Engineering offers a further explanation on paper bag weight.

Flat paper bags

Flat paper bags have bottoms that meet at a point. Flat paper bags are used to hold smaller objects that don't require an upright position, such as magazines, greeting cards or stationary products. They can be imprinted with your business name, logo or slogan for a customized look.
Try: Bags & Bows provides uses for flat paper bags.