Learn How To Measure Your Lay-Flat and Gusseted Plastic Bags

How to Measure Your Plastic Bag

Although adding a gusset increases the amount of film required to product your bag, it is often mandatory based on what you are putting in it.

Will this bag be lining a box, holding a carry out container, or filling a trash bin? These are just a few instances when a gusset (side or bottom) may be appropriate for your application.

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There are two types of Plastic Bags, Lay-flat (flat) and Gusseted.

Lay-flat

There are Three dimensions for each Lay-flat bag.

Length (L) | Width (W) | Gauge

The first measurement is the width across the opening of the bag. The second measurement runs from the bag opening to the base of the bag. The Gauge is a measurement of the Thickness of the material an is usually listed in Mils.

Gusseted

There are four dimensions for each Gusseted bag.

Length (L) | Width (W) | Depth (D)

The first measurement is the width across the opening of the bag. The second measurement is the Depth measured by fully extending the gusset. The third measurement is the length which runs from the bag opening to the base of the bag. The Gauge is a measurement of the Thickness of the material an is usually listed in Mils.

Fitting Bags To Containers

For a Round Container

Width

To determine the width of the bag, multiply the diameter of the container by 3.14 and divide by 2. Add 1″ for a looser fit.

Length

For Liners Only: To determine the length of the bag, add 1/2 of the diameter to the length of the container. Add 5″ to this for the total for overhang.

For Tying Bag Only

Same as liners but add 1/2 the diameter to the bag length.

To Line Cartons/Boxes

Add the Width and the Length of the sides. Add 2″ for a looser fit. The total equals the “Flat width” of the bag needed.
Add 1/2 of the Height of the container. Add 5″ for an overhang. This equals the length of the bag needed.)

Tying Bag

If tying bag rather than lining carton, add 1/2 the length of the shortest side of the bag length.

Example:

To line a carton sized 14(L) x 12(W) x 21(H)
To determine the width of the bag: L+W+2 or 14(L)+12(W)+2=28
To determine the height of the bag: 21(H)+6(1/2W or 10)+5=32
The ideal size to line the carton is: 28 x 32 x gauge or 16 x 12 x 32 x gauge

For further assistance please contact a representative for immediate assistance! (317) 353-1664