Overview & Specifications
What Are Paper Grocery Bags?
Paper grocery bags are gusseted kraft bags for packing and carrying mixed groceries. Most are handleless; a handled version uses twisted paper handles. They are the bulk-carry bag of the range, alongside the retail tote on Paper Tote Bag.
Paper Grocery Bags sit in the Paper Bags range and under Food & Beverage Packaging.
What it has to do
What a Paper Grocery Bag Has to Get Right
A grocery bag has to expand for packing, hold a mixed load, carry with or without handles and keep any recycled claim documented. Each need below is matched to the option that meets it.
01
Gussets
Gussets That Expand for Packing
Gussets expand for packing; base shape and standing performance are confirmed on the approved sample.02
Mixed
A Mixed Load
Paper grade, gussets and packed weight decide performance. The paper is chosen for the heaviest expected load.03
Without
With or Without Handles
Handleless bags are carried by the body or in a cart; twisted paper handles add a carry option.04
Documented
Documented Claims
Kraft describes the paper, not recycled content. Recycled content is stated only from documentation.
Paper Grocery Bags vs Paper Tote Bags
Choose a grocery bag for bulk, mixed loads at a checkout and a tote for branded retail carry. The table compares the two.
| Attribute | Paper Grocery Bag | Paper Tote Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Tall gusseted bag | Gusseted tote |
| Handles | Usually none; twisted paper optional | Twisted paper, rope, die-cut or ribbon |
| Paper | Kraft | Kraft, white art or specialty |
| Best for | Groceries, takeout, markets | Retail and boutique carry |
Paper Grocery Bags Specifications
Paper Grocery Bags are specified around the contents, the paper and the bag format. Review the specifications below to plan the bag.
| Specification | Available Configuration |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Gusseted kraft grocery bag |
| Category | Paper Bags |
| Structure | Grocery-style gusseted paper bag, as specified |
| Dimensions | Custom width × gusset × height, built around the packed load |
| Paper | Standard or heavy-duty kraft; recycled content only if documented |
| Paper Weight | Matched to the packed load |
| Handles | None, or twisted paper handles |
| Add-ons | Reinforced top edge |
| Food Contact | Depends on the actual contact conditions and paper |
| Load | Paper grade, gussets and packed weight determine performance |
| Print Coverage | One side, both sides or full wrap |
| Print Methods | Offset, digital, screen or flexographic printing; CMYK and Pantone spot colors |
| Coatings and Finishes | Matte, gloss or soft-touch lamination, aqueous coating, foil stamping, emboss/deboss, Spot UV and raised 3D UV, according to the paper |
| Starting Price | From $0.65 / unit; final price depends on size, paper, handles, print, finishes and quantity |
| Minimum Order | 500 units |
| Standard Production | 7 days from approved proof |
| Rush Production | Available on request |
| Shipping | Ships flat, USA and worldwide |
What Size Paper Grocery Bag Do I Need?
Start from the typical order: what goes in and how heavy it gets. Width, gusset and height are set around that load on the approved dieline.
| Measurement | What to Record |
|---|---|
| Load | Typical items and packed weight |
| Width × gusset | Base footprint |
| Height | Tallest items |
| Handles | None or twisted paper |
Load a Sample to the Heaviest Order
Pack a sample with your heaviest typical order and carry it as customers will. Check the base shape, the gussets and any handles.
What to Check Before Bulk Production
Review a sample packed to the heaviest typical load and printed with the final artwork. Record the approved paper grade and size on the signed-off sample.
| If the sample shows | Review before approval |
|---|---|
| Base tears under load | Review construction and fit, then check another packed sample |
| Bag does not sit as expected for packing | Review construction and fit, then check another packed sample |
| Handle pulls away | Review construction and fit, then check another packed sample |
| Print rubs on kraft | Review ink and coating on a sample |
Seven days covers standard production from approved proof once the specification is confirmed; delivery timing is confirmed separately.




