Paper bags
A carryout format for retail or takeaway projects. Confirm dimensions, base, handle and expected load.
Custom Bags & Mailers
Custom bags and mailers serve two different jobs: carrying a purchase from a shop and protecting an item during shipping. Compare paper bags, retail bags and poly mailers according to the contents, packed dimensions and handling requirements.
Packaging selection guide
Carryout bag or shipping mailer?
For in-store purchases, start with the size and weight of the items, the bag's base and the preferred handle. For ecommerce, consider the packed product, closure and protection against handling. A printed shopping bag is not automatically a parcel mailer, and a flexible mailer does not provide the rigid protection of a box. Share whether you are packing clothing, boxed products, gifts or takeaway orders so the proposed format can be reviewed for that use.
Retail bags
For presenting purchases and gifts. Request the material, handle style and print treatment needed for your brand.
Poly mailers
A flexible shipping format often considered for soft goods. Review closure, packed fit and any additional protection.
What to include in your quote
Specify width, height and gusset where relevant, packed weight, handle or closure preferences, print sides and quantity per artwork design. For mailers, measure the packed item rather than laying the empty product flat.
Request a packaging quote or read the artwork preparation guide before preparing your files. To evaluate materials, ask about packaging samples.
Custom Paper Bags & Printed Mailers: questions answered
What is the difference between a shopping bag and a mailer?
A shopping bag is intended for carrying a purchase and may have an open top and handles. A mailer is intended to enclose a shipment. Its closure and protection requirements must be specified for parcel handling.
How should I measure a paper bag?
Provide width, height and base or side-gusset dimensions, clearly labeled in inches. Also give the dimensions and weight of the items it needs to carry.
Are poly mailers suitable for fragile products?
A flexible mailer alone does not provide rigid impact protection. Fragile items may need cushioning and a box; the packaging specification should be reviewed against the packed product.
Can I choose the handles on printed paper bags?
State your preferred handle construction in the request. Available handle styles and load suitability depend on the specific bag and supplier specification, and are confirmed in the quote.
Can one bag size work for several products?
It may work if the largest combination fits and the load remains suitable. Share the smallest and largest intended contents so excessive empty space and handle strain can be considered.
How are custom bag and mailer prices quoted?
Dimensions, material, handle or closure, print coverage, quantity and delivery affect the quote. Submit those details with your ZIP code; no universal minimum or shipping price applies to every format.
Plan the details before choosing a format
Compare the intended use, dimensions and artwork before requesting a specification.