Paper weight directly affects the look, feel, and load capacity of kraft paper bags. This guide explains what 120gsm, 150gsm, and 200gsm mean in practice.

Paper weight is one of the most important specifications for kraft paper bags, but the numbers can be confusing if you are not familiar with paper terminology. Here is a practical guide.

What Does GSM Mean?

GSM stands for grams per square meter. It measures the weight of a single sheet of paper that is 1m × 1m. Higher GSM means thicker, heavier, and stronger paper. For kraft paper bags, the common range is 120–200gsm.

120gsm Kraft Paper

This is a lightweight kraft paper suitable for small bags. It has a natural, slightly translucent appearance and a soft hand feel.

Load capacity: Up to 2–3kg. Suitable for small retail items, pastries, and lightweight products.
Print quality: Good for simple 1-2 color prints. Fine details may appear slightly soft due to the paper's texture.
Cost: Lowest among the three. Ideal for high-volume, low-cost applications.
Best for: Small retail bags, food takeaway bags, gift bags for light items.

150gsm Kraft Paper

The most versatile weight. It offers a good balance between cost, strength, and print quality. Most standard kraft paper bags on the market use 150gsm paper.

Load capacity: Up to 5–7kg. Handles reinforced with rope or twisted paper can extend this to 8kg.
Print quality: Excellent for both flexographic and offset printing. Holds fine lines and small text well.
Cost: Moderate. About 20–30% more than 120gsm.
Best for: Standard shopping bags, boutique retail, restaurant takeaway, corporate gift bags.

200gsm Kraft Paper

A heavy-duty kraft paper for premium and industrial applications. The paper feels substantial and rigid, conveying quality through weight alone.

Load capacity: Up to 10–12kg with appropriate handle construction.
Print quality: Excellent. The thicker surface allows for more detailed printing and specialty finishes like hot stamping.
Cost: Highest. About 50–70% more than 120gsm. Justified for premium positioning.
Best for: Luxury retail bags, wine bags, heavy product packaging, premium gift bags.

Other Factors to Consider

Paper weight is only one variable. The handle attachment method, bag construction (single or double layer), and bottom reinforcement all affect the actual load capacity. A 150gsm bag with reinforced bottom and double-layer construction can carry more than a 200gsm single-layer bag.

Recommendation

If you are unsure, start with 150gsm. It covers the widest range of applications and provides the best cost-to-performance ratio. Move to 120gsm for cost-sensitive volume orders, and 200gsm for premium products where the bag itself is part of the brand experience.