PACKAGING BUYER’S GUIDE
The right packaging starts with your product, filling process and distribution requirements. Use this guide to prepare a clear brief before comparing bag formats, materials and printing options.
1. Start with the product and filling weight
Tell your packaging supplier what will go inside the bag: coffee, rice, pet food, fertilizer, animal feed or another product. Include the target net weight, approximate product dimensions or bulk density where available, and whether the contents are powder, granules or larger pieces.
A weight alone does not determine the bag size. Ask for dimensions to be checked against your product volume, filling equipment and preferred closure. Share an existing bag or sample if you have one.
2. Match the bag format to its use
| Your priority | Options to discuss | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Retail presentation | Stand-up pouches, flat-bottom bags or side-gusset bags | Shelf display, opening method and label space |
| Repeat use | Resealable closures | Closure compatibility and the intended filling process |
| Bulk packing | PP woven bags and laminated woven bags | Filling weight, handling conditions and closing method |
| Coffee packaging | Coffee bag formats and optional valves | Product condition, packing process and storage requirements |
Browse our coffee bags, food bags and industrial bags for a starting point. Final specifications should be confirmed for your application.
3. Define the protection you need
Describe the conditions your packaging will face, including storage duration, humidity, transport, stacking and exposure to light. For food applications, identify the destination market and the documentation you require so the proposed structure can be reviewed against your requirements.
- Product protection: discuss moisture, oxygen, light, grease or odor concerns relevant to your product.
- Handling: explain how bags will be filled, sealed, moved and stacked.
- Testing: agree on relevant sample checks and acceptance criteria before production.
Ask the supplier to propose a material structure and explain its suitability. Avoid choosing a structure only by appearance or thickness.
4. Prepare the design and finishing details
Provide your logo, artwork, dimensions and preferred finish. Identify any transparent window, handle, zipper or other feature you want included. Confirm the usable print area, color references, barcode placement and required product information before approving a proof.
If artwork is still in progress, share a reference image and your target bag format. The packaging specification and design should be reviewed together before the order moves to production.
5. Send a complete quotation brief
A clear brief helps the team compare suitable options and prepare a relevant quotation. Include:
- Product name and intended application
- Net weight or volume per bag and target dimensions
- Preferred bag format, material requirements and closure
- Artwork or printing requirements
- Estimated order quantity and any size or design variations
- Delivery destination and required timing
- Required samples, testing or documentation
Minimum order quantities, sample arrangements and lead times depend on the confirmed specification. Ask for these details with your quotation rather than assuming the same conditions apply to every bag.
Ready to discuss your packaging?
Share your product, filling weight and quantity. Bethlehem Star Packaging will help you review the available formats and customization requirements.
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