It is important to choose the right size for your custom retail bags. On the one hand, the bags must be large enough to carry your product properly, to be a viable protection against dirt, debris, and moisture. On the other hand, they should not use more material than needed, or will cause unnecessary waste and extra costs. How do you know what size poly bag you need?
To find what sizes custom retail bag should be, follow the following steps:
- Measure the products’ dimensions
- Measure your poly bags
- Distinguish different poly bag types
- Confirm size with the proof
Let’s break these steps down further, so you can figure out exactly what poly bag size you need for your product.
#1 Measure the products’ dimensions
For the purposes of packaging, you’ll need to measure products or bag contents to figure out what size poly bag will work best. You can take quick measurements of your product’s length and width, and depth if applicable.
Basing on the real use, you will also determine the type and style of bag you need. For example, for flat and two-dimensional products, a simple flat poly bag will work best and come in standard measurements. However, if it is three-dimensional or a nonstandard shape item, you’ll need a poly bag that can fit around it and cover all parts of the product. For items with odd shapes, measure the space the product will take up in the bag, from the widest points, to find the minimum size bag.
If you’re looking for a poly bag to fit in your product, such as a drum liner, these measurements will be different than the length, width, and depth of the container. Actually, drum liners are measured in gallons. However, length and width calculations can express capacity in gallons easily using a bag guide.
#2 Measure Your Poly Bags
When measuring a poly bag, you should focus on the space where your product will be. To hold your product properly, the dimensions of the bag must be greater than those of what you want it to enclose. Moreover, it will be easy to handle for packaging and shipping.
It’s also important to consider the coverage of the bag around your product. If you want the custom retail bags to fit loosely, add a few inches to the dimensions. A loose fit will ensure the product fits in the packaging in any direction or arrangement. Too tight of a fit could stretch or tear the poly bag, which could be a concern if your product has blunt or sharp edges.
#3 Understand Different Custom Retail Bag Types
Custom retail bags come in a range of sizes, uses, and constructions, so it’s important to understand that different poly bags will require different measurements. Here are a few typical examples of common poly bag types:
Flat Poly Bags: Standard flat poly bags are available in a wide range of sizes with straightforward measurements — just length and width.
Gusseted Poly Bags: The sides of this bag type can expand to allow for a more fitted shape. For the bags with gussets, you should be aware of the actual depth when at full capacity.
Bags on a Roll: Flat poly bags are often sold on a roll of uniform bags with perforated edges. For each roll, the total roll length is the combined lengths of all the bags. The width of the bags will be the same as the roll height.
Also, be aware that some bags have extra material at the top for handles, sealing options, etc. This part of the bag does not affect the overall measurement. The bag dimensions will cover the size of the bag pouch up until the bottom of these features. Keep this in mind when you’re measuring the size poly bag you need because your poly bags will take up more space than just the basic pocket size.
#4 Confirm Custom Retail Bag Size With the Poly Bag Proof
When making orders, the first thing to discuss with your supplier is the size poly bag best meeting your needs. During the poly bag ordering process, your supplier should develop a poly bag proof. For examples, a sample of your bag seems to meet your exact specifications and design requirements. This proof makes sure your product will fit comfortably inside the bag, getting the right size before production begins.
Not sure what size poly bag you need? Talk to one of the advisers at Hanpak JSC. We’re always willing to help you figure out the best size for your product. Also, check out our free guide for How to determine the Right Poly Bag thickness.