Bag measurements in the industry: how to interpret them correctly

When it comes to industrial packaging, precision in bag measurements is essential to ensure your products are adequately protected and your supply chain runs smoothly. However, in the industry, there are different measurement systems, which can lead to confusion. In this article, we aim to demystify bag measurements in the industrial sector and help you understand how to interpret them correctly.

Breaking down the terms: width, gusset, and height

To gain a comprehensive understanding of bag measurements, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the following terms:

A – Width refers to the horizontal dimension of the bag.

B – Gusset is the side that provides additional space to accommodate bulkier items, essentially representing the depth dimension of the bag.

C – Height signifies the vertical dimension of the bag, with measurements provided in a flat, unfolded format. In the case of gusseted bags, the usable height decreases in proportion to the gusset measurement.

Understanding these terms will enable you to accurately interpret bag dimensions.

Spanish measurement system: interpreting the formula

The Spanish measurement system employs the formula (width + gusset) / width x height. While this method can initially appear confusing due to its additional calculation, let’s clarify it using an example.

Consider a bag with dimensions of 400 mm in width, 200 mm in gusset, and 300 mm in height. The expression of these dimensions appears as follows:

600/400 x 300 mm, derived from the following calculation (400+200)/400 x 300 mm

Traditionally, this approach has been the standard in Spain for specifying plastic bag measurements and it originates from the practices of local plastic manufacturers. However, a growing number of companies are adopting European and international standards to foster consistency and clarity within the industry.

International standard: width x gusset x height (H)

Precision in bag measurements is of utmost importance in the industrial sector. Internationally, a standard measurement system has been established, employing the format width x gusset x height (H). This widely accepted method provides a clear and precise means of communicating bag dimensions.

For instance, using the aforementioned measurements of 400 mm in width, 200 mm in gusset, and 300 mm in height as an example, these dimensions are expressed in the international standard as follows:

400 x 200 x 300 (H) mm

More precision for the industry

The industry’s preference for millimeters stems from the fact that dimensions, including width, gusset, and height, are determined based on the specific requirements of the product to be packaged. This level of precision is crucial to ensuring a perfect fit and adequate protection during storage and transportation.

By adhering to this international regulation, effective communication within the industry is achieved, mitigating misunderstandings and promoting uniformity in measurement specifications.

Measurement in liters: assessing bag capacity

Occasionally, it proves beneficial to gauge a bag’s capacity in liters. This system primarily finds utility in more intuitive contexts and within the retail sector.

For instance, a bag might have a capacity of 20 liters, providing a clear indication of the quantity of products it can hold.

Choosing the right measurement system

The selection between the Spanish measurement system, the international standard, or liters should be based on your specific needs and your customers’ preferences. However, in today’s globalized industrial landscape, we strongly recommend adopting the width x gusset x height (H) format for precise communication and the prevention of misunderstandings.

In the retail sector, where customer comprehension of bag capacity is paramount, the liter system may prove to be the most suitable choice.

Conversely, the industrial sector demands exact details about bag shape and size, making the international millimeter-based system the most fitting option. Both width, gusset, and height are determined according to the dimensions of the product to be packaged, and these precise measurements cannot be accurately conveyed in liters.

Effective communication: a cornerstone for suppliers and customers

Unambiguous communication of measurements holds equal significance for both suppliers and customers. Measurement precision ensures that products fit snugly within bags, guaranteeing their safety during transportation and storage. The adoption of the international standard system expressed as width x gusset x height (H) facilitates this communication, enhancing efficiency across the supply chain.

Understanding bag dimensions within the industry is pivotal to safeguarding products and ensuring a seamless supply chain operation. With this guide, we aspire to have demystified bag measurements in the industrial sector, equipping you with the requisite tools for accurate interpretation.

The adoption of the international standard signifies the most accurate and effective option to ensure precision and mitigate misunderstandings. The precise communication of these dimensions is pivotal in meeting customer requirements and guaranteeing proper product protection.

Are you ready to optimize your packaging solutions? Contact us today and discover how Inviker can enhance measurement accuracy and product protection during transportation and storage.