You often see takeout bag sizes listed with three numbers for width, height, and gusset. Standard takeout paper bag size options range from small (5 x 7 x 3.5 in / 12.7 x 17.8 x 8.9 cm) to large (18 x 24 x 12 in / 45.7 x 61 x 30.5 cm). The table below shows common dimensions and their uses in food packaging:
|
Size |
Dimensions (inches) |
Dimensions (cm) |
Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Small |
5 x 7 x 3.5, 6 x 9 x 4 |
12.7 x 17.8 x 8.9, 15.2 x 22.9 x 10.2 |
Bakery, lightweight items |
|
Medium |
8 x 11 x 6, 10 x 13 x 7 |
20.3 x 27.9 x 15.2, 25.4 x 33 x 17.8 |
Snacks, clothing, accessories |
|
Large |
14 x 18 x 9, 18 x 24 x 12 |
35.6 x 45.7 x 22.9, 45.7 x 61 x 30.5 |
Grocery, restaurant takeout |
Choosing the right takeout bag ensures your products stay safe, look appealing, and support your brand.
Key Takeaways
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Pick the right takeout bag size by measuring your product’s width, height, and gusset. This helps make sure the bag fits and keeps your food safe. Use small bags for snacks and pastries. Use medium bags for lunches and salads. Use large bags for family meals or big orders. This keeps food safe and neat. Size notation is width x gusset x height. Always check with your supplier so you do not get the wrong size. Choose bag materials and handle types based on how heavy and what kind of food you have. This makes the bag stronger and gives customers a better experience. Picking the right bag size saves money. It also helps your brand look good and cuts down on waste. This makes your business look professional and eco-friendly.
Takeout paper bag size guide
Standard takeout bag sizes
You will find many options when you look for takeout paper bag size. Each size fits different needs. The most common standard takeout bag sizes appear in the table below. You can use this as a quick reference for your business. The table lists both inches and centimeters so you can compare easily.
|
Bag Type |
Dimensions (inches) |
Dimensions (cm) |
Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Small |
4 x 2 x 8 |
10.2 x 5.1 x 20.3 |
Single pastries, snacks |
|
Small |
5 x 7 x 3.5 |
12.7 x 17.8 x 8.9 |
Cookies, small sandwiches |
|
Medium |
8.25 x 6.25 x 3.75 |
21 x 16 x 9.5 |
Lunches, deli items |
|
Medium |
10 x 5 x 13 |
25.4 x 12.7 x 33 |
Takeout meals, salads |
|
Large |
12 x 7 x 17 |
30.5 x 17.8 x 43.2 |
Family meals, groceries |
|
Large |
14 x 18 x 9 |
35.6 x 45.7 x 22.9 |
Catering, bulk orders |
Tip: Always check the dimensions before you order. Some suppliers use different size notations for the same type of bag.
You will notice that the standard takeout paper bag size can vary by supplier. Always confirm the exact measurements to avoid confusion. The width, height, and gusset (side fold) make up the full size. This helps you match the bag to your products.
Common uses by size
You can choose the right takeout paper bag size by thinking about what you need to pack. Here are some examples of how businesses use different paper bag sizes:
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Use small takeout paper bags (like 4 x 2 x 8 in) for cookies, muffins, or a single sandwich. These bags work well for bakeries and coffee shops.
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Choose medium takeout paper bags (such as 8.25 x 6.25 x 3.75 in or 10 x 5 x 13 in) for lunch combos, salads, or boxed meals. Many delis and fast food restaurants use these sizes.
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Pick large takeout paper bags (for example, 14 x 18 x 9 in) for family-size meals, catering trays, or multiple food containers. Grocery stores and restaurants often use these for big orders.
You can see that the right takeout paper bag size keeps your food safe and makes it easy for customers to carry. The standard takeout paper bag size also helps you organize your storage and plan your packaging costs. When you know the typical uses for each size, you can make better choices for your business.
Note: Using the correct size improves your customer’s experience. Bags that are too small may damage food. Bags that are too large can waste material and look unprofessional.
If you want to compare paper bag sizes, always look at the width, height, and gusset. These dimensions tell you how much space you have inside the bag. The standard takeout bag sizes above cover most needs in food service and retail.
Takeout paper bag dimensions explained
Measuring width, length, gusset
When you look at takeout paper bag size, you see three main measurements: width, length (sometimes called height), and gusset. Each part tells you how much space you have for your products. Knowing how to measure these parts helps you pick the right bag for your needs.
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Width: Measure from one side of the bag to the other, across the front panel. Lay the bag flat and stretch it out to get the most accurate width. This number shows how wide the bag is when you look at it from the front.
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Length (Height): Measure from the bottom of the bag to the top edge. This is the vertical distance. Some manufacturers may call this the height or the length, so always check which term they use.
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Gusset: The gusset is the folded part on the side or bottom of the bag. It lets the bag expand and hold more items. Measure the gusset from the bottom fold up to the top of the side panel. A wider gusset means you can fit bulkier containers or more food inside.
Tip: Always flatten the bag before measuring. This gives you the most accurate takeout paper bag dimensions and helps you avoid mistakes.
When you choose a takeout paper bag size, start by measuring your product’s length, width, and height. Use these numbers to find a bag that fits well. Think about the weight of your items and how the bag will be used. For example, a bag with a wide gusset works best for large takeout boxes or catering trays. If your bag has a turnover top or flap, remember that this can reduce the usable height inside.
Understanding size notation
You often see takeout paper bag size written as three numbers, like 8 x 4 x 10. These numbers show the width, gusset, and length (or height), but not every supplier lists them in the same order. Always check the product details or ask your supplier if you are not sure.
Here is how to read a typical size notation:
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The first number is usually the width (front panel, side to side).
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The second number is the gusset (side or bottom fold, depth).
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The third number is the length or height (bottom to top edge).
For example, a bag listed as 8 x 4 x 10 means:
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8 inches wide (front panel)
-
4-inch gusset (side fold)
-
10 inches tall (height from bottom to top)
Some manufacturers may switch the order of width and length, so always double-check. If you see a bag size listed as 10 x 8 x 4, it could mean something different depending on the supplier’s notation.
Note: Accurate measuring takeout paper bag size helps you avoid ordering bags that are too small or too large. Even a small difference in gusset size can change how much you can fit inside.
When you understand takeout paper bag dimensions and size notation, you can choose the best bag for your business. This knowledge helps you protect your products, save money, and give your customers a better experience.
Why takeout bag size matters
Practical considerations
Choosing the right takeout bag size helps you avoid many problems in your business. When you select a bag that fits your products, you protect food from spills and damage. A bag that is too small can crush items or cause leaks. If you use a bag that is too large, your food may slide around and arrive messy.
You also save money by picking the correct size. Smaller bags use less material, which lowers your packaging costs. Large bags can waste space and increase your expenses. When you match the bag to the order, you make storage and inventory easier to manage.
Here are some practical tips to help you:
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Measure your most common items before ordering bags.
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Test different sizes with your actual products.
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Ask your supplier for samples to check fit and strength.
Note: The right packaging size keeps your food fresh and makes it easy for customers to carry their orders.
Branding impact
The size of your takeout bag does more than just hold food. It also affects how customers see your brand. A well-chosen bag shows that you care about quality and attention to detail. If your packaging looks neat and fits the order, customers feel more confident about your business.
You can use custom bags to show off your logo and colors. This helps people remember your brand after they leave your store. When you choose the right size, your design stands out and looks professional.
A table can help you see the difference:
|
Bag Size |
Customer Impression |
|---|---|
|
Too Small |
Messy, unprofessional |
|
Too Large |
Wasteful, careless |
|
Just Right |
Thoughtful, high quality |
Tip: Good packaging makes your business look more trustworthy and can bring customers back again.
Choosing takeout paper size bag
Product fit and weight
You want your takeout paper size bag to fit your products just right. If you use a bag that is too small, you risk crushing food or making it hard to carry. A bag that is too large can let items slide around and spill. Always measure your food containers before you choose a size. For example, small takeout paper bags work well for cookies or a single sandwich. Medium takeout paper bags hold boxed lunches or salads. Large takeout paper bags carry family meals or several containers at once. You should also think about the weight of your items. Heavier foods need stronger bags with sturdy handles and thicker paper. This helps prevent rips and keeps your food safe during transport.
Intended use
The type of food or drink you serve changes the takeout paper size bag you need. Hot foods need bags made from materials like Kraft paper or PLA-coated paper. These materials keep heat in and protect hands from burns. Cold foods and drinks often use bags with special carriers or thicker paperboard. Some bags even have features like grease resistance or leak prevention. If you serve both hot and cold items, look for eco-friendly options like sugarcane or bagasse. These materials work for many uses and help the environment. Always pick the smallest size that fits your food to save money and reduce waste.
Tip: Choose bags that match your menu. Hot soups, cold drinks, and fried foods all need different bag sizes and materials.
Cost and customization
You can save money by ordering takeout paper size bags in bulk. Many suppliers offer lower prices when you buy large quantities. This helps you keep your shelves stocked and your costs down. Trusted suppliers also give you more choices in size and material. If you want to stand out, try custom takeout paper bags with your logo or brand colors. Custom bags help customers remember your business and show you care about quality. You can pick eco-friendly materials or special features to match your brand. Bulk orders make it easier to get the exact size and style you need for every order.
|
Order Size |
Benefits |
|---|---|
|
Small orders |
Quick delivery, less storage |
|
Bulk orders |
Lower cost, steady supply |
|
Custom orders |
Unique look, brand promotion |
Note: Always talk to your supplier about your needs. They can help you find the best takeout paper bag size and style for your business.
Takeout paper bag packaging types
Flat vs. gusseted bags
When you choose takeout paper bag packaging, you often see two main types: flat bags and gusseted bags. Flat bags have a simple design. They look like envelopes and work best for small, flat items. You can use them for cookies, sandwiches, or napkins. These bags do not expand much, so they fit thin products.
Gusseted bags have extra folds on the sides or bottom. These folds let the bag open wider. You can pack bulky or odd-shaped items with ease. Many restaurants use gusseted bags for takeout meals because they hold food containers and drinks without tearing. Gusseted bags also help you stack items neatly, which keeps your packaging organized.
The material you pick for your takeout paper bag packaging affects how much weight the bag can hold. Here is a table that shows how different materials perform:
|
Material Type |
Durability & Performance Characteristics |
Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
|
Kraft Paper |
High tensile strength; carries heavy items without tearing |
Grocery stores, retail, food services |
|
Recycled Paper |
Eco-friendly; less strong than kraft paper |
Sustainable brands |
|
Coated/Finished Paper |
Water-resistant and durable; looks attractive |
Many packaging needs |
|
Plastic Bags |
Flexible and tear-resistant; not eco-friendly |
General retail and takeout |
You can see that kraft paper bags work well for heavy loads. Recycled paper bags offer a green choice, but they may not hold as much weight.
Tip: Gusseted bags give you more space and strength for your takeout paper bag packaging.
Handle options
Handle options make a big difference in takeout paper bag packaging. Some bags come with twisted paper handles. These handles feel strong and help you carry heavy food. Others have flat handles, which are wide and easy to grip. You can also find bags without handles. These work for light items or when you want simple packaging.
When you pick a handle style, think about your customer’s needs. Heavy meals need sturdy handles. Light snacks may not need any handle at all. Handle choices also affect the look of your packaging. Twisted handles look classic. Flat handles give a modern touch. No handles keep the design simple.
Kraft paper takeout bags use wood pulp. This makes them 100% biodegradable and safe for food. You help the environment when you choose these bags for your packaging. They break down naturally and do not harm nature. Many businesses now use kraft paper bags as a better choice than plastic.
Note: The right handle makes your takeout paper bag packaging easy to carry and helps your brand stand out.
Selecting the right takeout bag size helps you protect your food, save money, and build your brand. You should check your product size, weight, and intended use before you order. Use the size guide in this blog to make smart choices for your business. If you feel unsure, ask your supplier for samples or advice. This step ensures you always get the best fit for your needs.
FAQ
What is the best way to measure a takeout paper bag?
You should lay the bag flat. Measure the width across the front, the gusset on the side, and the height from bottom to top. Always check the supplier’s size order.
Can you use one bag size for all food orders?
You should not use one size for every order. Small bags fit snacks. Large bags hold family meals. Using the right size keeps food safe and looks professional.
Are paper takeout bags strong enough for heavy items?
Most paper bags can hold light to medium loads. For heavy items, choose bags with thick paper and strong handles. Test the bag with your products before buying in bulk.
Can you recycle takeout paper bags?
You can recycle most plain paper bags. Bags with plastic coatings or heavy grease may not recycle easily. Check your local recycling rules for details.
