What Paper Is Used for Product Packaging? A Complete Guide for Brands and Manufacturers

Paper remains one of the most widely used materials in product packaging due to its versatility, printability, and environmental advantages. From everyday food packaging to premium gift presentation, the type of paper selected directly affects product protection, visual appeal, cost, and sustainability performance. For brands and buyers planning custom packaging solutions—such as custom paper food bags or custom paper gift bags with logo—understanding different paper types is essential.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the most common papers used in product packaging, how they are selected, and how each type supports different packaging applications.

 

1. Why Paper Selection Matters in Product Packaging

Packaging paper does far more than wrap a product. It protects contents during handling and transport, supports branding and marketing, and communicates a company’s environmental values. Choosing the wrong paper can result in damaged products, poor print quality, or higher-than-necessary costs.

As consumer demand for sustainable packaging grows, paper-based solutions have become the preferred alternative to plastic. However, not all paper types are suitable for every product. Matching the right paper to the right application is a critical decision in packaging design.

 

2. Key Factors That Determine Packaging Paper Selection

Before choosing a paper type, manufacturers and brands should consider several key factors:

Product weight and durability requirements: Heavier products need stronger paper or reinforced structures.

Purpose of packaging: Shipping, retail display, food service, or gifting all have different needs.

Printing and branding requirements: High-resolution graphics require smoother paper surfaces.

Cost efficiency: Material choice affects both unit price and production efficiency.

Sustainability and compliance: Many markets require recyclable or food-safe materials.

These considerations guide the selection process for everything from custom paper handle bags to lightweight confectionery packaging.

3. Kraft Paper: The Most Common Packaging Paper

Kraft paper is one of the most widely used papers in product packaging due to its strength, affordability, and eco-friendly image.

 

Types of Kraft Paper

Brown kraft paper: Natural appearance, high tear resistance.

White kraft paper: Cleaner surface, better for printing and branding.

Virgin kraft vs. recycled kraft: Virgin kraft offers higher strength, while recycled kraft improves sustainability.

 

Applications

Kraft paper is commonly used for:

Shopping and takeaway bags

Custom paper bakery bags

Custom paper food bags

Inner packaging for boxes

 

Kraft paper’s durability makes it ideal for products that require both strength and a natural, environmentally responsible appearance.

 

4. Coated Paper (Art Paper) for High-Quality Packaging

Coated paper, often referred to as art paper, is designed for high-quality printing and premium presentation.

 

Characteristics

Smooth surface with excellent ink absorption

Available in glossy and matte finishes

Enhances color vibrancy and detail

 

Applications

Coated paper is commonly used in:

Luxury packaging boxes

Custom paper gift bags with logo

Premium promotional packaging

 

Although coated paper is typically more expensive than kraft paper, it delivers superior visual impact and is often chosen for gift-oriented and brand-focused packaging.

 

5. Corrugated Paperboard for Protective Packaging

Corrugated paperboard is essential for packaging that requires structural protection during transportation.

 

Structure

Corrugated board consists of:

An inner fluted layer

One or two outer linerboards

 

Types

Single wall

Double wall

Triple wall

 

Applications

Corrugated paperboard is widely used in:

Shipping cartons

E-commerce packaging

Industrial and bulk packaging

 

While not commonly used for small retail bags, corrugated paperboard plays a crucial role in outer packaging that protects products before they reach consumers.

 

6. Cardboard and Paperboard Types in Packaging

Paperboard is thicker than standard paper and is commonly used for cartons and rigid packaging.

 

Common Paperboard Types

Folding Boxboard (FBB): Lightweight, good print quality

Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS): Bright white surface, premium appearance

Solid Unbleached Sulfate (SUS): Natural color, strong and durable

Grey board (chipboard): Used as a structural core in rigid boxes

 

Applications

Paperboard is widely used for:

Folding cartons

Rigid gift boxes

Backing boards for custom paper favor bags

 

7. Specialty Papers Used in Product Packaging

Some products require special functional properties that standard papers cannot provide.

 

Common Specialty Papers

Greaseproof paper for food packaging

Glassine paper for confectionery

Waxed or laminated paper for moisture resistance

Anti-static paper for electronics

Textured paper for decorative packaging

 

Specialty papers are often used in custom paper cookie bags, custom paper candy bags, and other food-related packaging where freshness and cleanliness are critical.

8. Paper Thickness and Weight (GSM) Explained

GSM (grams per square meter) measures paper weight and thickness.

 

Why GSM Matters

Higher GSM provides better strength and durability

Lower GSM reduces cost and material usage

 

Typical GSM Ranges

40–60 GSM: Lightweight food wrappers

80–120 GSM: Custom paper food bags

150–250 GSM: Shopping bags and gift bags

300+ GSM: Rigid packaging and boxes

 

Selecting the correct GSM ensures packaging performs well without unnecessary material expense.

 

9. Choosing the Right Paper for Different Product Categories

Different products require different paper solutions:

Food and bakery items: Kraft paper or greaseproof paper for custom paper bakery bags

Candy and cookies: Glassine or coated paper for custom paper candy bags and custom paper cookie bags

Gifts and promotions: Coated paper or specialty paper for custom paper gift bags with logo

Retail shopping: Reinforced kraft or paperboard for durable carry bags

Matching paper type to product category ensures functionality and brand consistency.

 

Conclusion

Paper packaging offers unmatched flexibility across industries, but its effectiveness depends on informed material selection. By understanding kraft paper, coated paper, corrugated board, paperboard, and specialty papers, brands can choose solutions that balance protection, aesthetics, cost, and sustainability.

Whether producing custom paper food bags, custom paper favor bags, or premium gift packaging, selecting the right paper is the foundation of successful packaging design.

With 30+ years production experience, full set equipment, skilled workers, Harmony Print Pack (HPP), a leading company in China providing one-stop solution in printing and packaging industry, would be your solid choice. Our professional service team would assist you with the design, quotation, sample and shipment for free.