Budgeting for a new bag-making line can be challenging, especially when machinery prices are unclear. Without clear cost estimates, planning and scaling can become difficult.
Standard side seal bag making machines1 from BagMec® generally range from $10,500 to $18,500. Compact models, such as the 800mm version, are priced between $4,600 and $7,200.
Price variations depend on machine size, speed, automation level, and optional features. Machines designed for high-speed, large-scale production tend to cost more than those built for lower-volume, basic operations.
This guide outlines the types of machines available and the factors influencing cost, providing essential information for informed decision-making.
What Is a Side Seal Bag Making Machine?
A side seal bag making machine folds a sheet of plastic film and heat-seals the sides to create a bag. It works well with materials like BOPP2, PP, and PE.
Machine Operation and Value
Side seal machines are efficient and produce high-quality bags. They are essential in the packaging industry due to their performance and flexibility.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Process
- Film Feeding: A roll of film is loaded. Systems like Smart Tension Control ensure consistent tension.
- Folding: The film is folded lengthwise to form two layers.
- Sealing and Cutting: A heated bar seals the sides. A blade then cuts individual bags.
- Punching and Taping (Optional): Optional features include hang holes or self-adhesive tape.
- Stacking: Finished bags are counted and stacked.
Materials Processed
The machines handle several types of heat-sealable film3, allowing production of bags for different applications.
| Film Material | Characteristics | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| BOPP | Clear, stiff, good for printing | Garment bags, bakery bags, card sleeves, flower packaging |
| PP (Polypropylene) | Durable, chemical-resistant | Hosiery packaging, stationery bags, general merchandise bags |
| PE (Polyethylene) | Flexible, strong (LDPE/HDPE variants) | Towel bags, parts bags, courier mailers |
| Heat-Shrinkable Film | Shrinks with heat | Protective packaging for consumer goods |
Common Applications
Side-sealed bags are widely used in:
- Retail & Apparel: For shirts, socks, and similar products.
- Food: Bread, pastry, and dry goods packaging.
- Stationery & Gifts: Sleeves for notebooks, cards, and small items.
- Electronics: Bags for components and accessories.
What Types of Side Seal Bag Making Machines Are Available?
BagMec® offers several machine types to meet different production needs:
- Standard double-side seal machines
- Three-side seal pouch machines
- Continuous roll-fed machines
- Specialized models with options like zippers or tape applicators
Machine Types Explained
Double-Side Seal Machines
These machines use a folded film and seal both open sides. The BagMec® 800mm model is a typical example, used for garment, bread, and general packaging.
Three-Side Seal Pouch Machines
These machines use two film layers to seal three sides. They are suited for packaging food, medical supplies, and other products needing strong seals. BagMec® offers lamination pouch machines for this type.
Continuous Roll Side Seal Machines
These create perforated rolls of bags. Often used for produce or garbage bags, they allow users to tear off bags as needed.
Specialized Machines
- Zipper Machines: Add resealable plastic zippers.
- Punch Hole Machines: Create holes for hanging displays.
- Tape Applicator Machines: Add self-sealing adhesive tape strips.
What Is the Difference Between Three-Side Seal and Side Seal Machines?
Side seal machines use folded film and make two seals. Three-side seal machines use two separate films and create three seals, resulting in a pouch with higher seal strength.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Construction and Film Usage
- Side Seal: Uses one folded film roll. The fold becomes the bag’s bottom.
- Three-Side Seal: Uses two films. Seals are made on all sides.
Applications
- Side Seal Bags: For basic product containment and display.
- Three-Side Seal Pouches: For food, medical items, or anything requiring airtight or tamper-proof packaging.
| Feature | Side Seal Machine | Three-Side Seal Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Film Input | Single folded roll | Two separate rolls |
| Number of Seals | Two (sides) | Three (sides and bottom/top) |
| Bottom of Bag | Crease | Sealed edge |
| Typical Bag Style | Flat or gusseted bag | Flat pouch |
| Common Uses | Apparel, bread, mailers | Snacks, powders, medical products |
| Example Model | BagMec® 800mm Hot-Cut Side Seal Machine | BagMec® Lamination Pouch Making Machine |
What Kinds of Bags Can Be Made with Side Seal Machines?
Side seal machines can produce a wide variety of bags for different markets, including garment packaging, bakery bags, towel wraps, stationery sleeves, and courier bags.
Product Applications
Retail and Apparel
Machines create professional, clear bags from BOPP film, often with resealable tape. Standard in retail and e-commerce packaging.
Food Packaging
Used for bread, cookies, and dry goods. Bags maintain product freshness and allow for attractive presentation.
Stationery and Office Supplies
Create protective sleeves for paper products. Sealed edges provide protection and organization.
Specialized Bags with Folding Machines
For materials like OPP, a folding machine is needed. The BagMec® ZB-1600 Folding Machine works with side sealers to fold film and optionally apply adhesive tape, ideal for premium self-sealing bags.
Small Side Seal Bag Making Machine Price: Is It Worth It?
Yes. Compact models like the BagMec® 800mm, priced from $4,600 to $7,200, offer strong returns through efficiency, versatility, and low operational cost.
Business Value of a Compact Machine
Smaller machines allow companies to produce in-house, improving control over quality and speed to market.
BagMec® 800mm Hot-Cut Side Seal Machine
A popular choice for its balance of performance and price.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | BagMec® 800mm |
| Power Supply | 220/380V |
| Total Power | 4kW |
| Average Power Use | 2kW |
| Max Bag Width | 800mm |
| Max Bag Length | 750mm |
| Production Speed | 30–300 bags/min |
| Machine Weight | 650kg |
| Dimensions | 3300mm x 1200mm x 1275mm |
ROI Calculation
At 150 bags/minute, daily output is around 72,000 bags in an 8-hour shift. Many users recover the machine cost in months by avoiding outsourced packaging.
Ideal Users
- Startups: Lower entry cost for in-house production.
- SMEs: Reduce reliance on suppliers and cut packaging costs.
- Large Enterprises: Useful for pilot runs or special projects.
How to Choose the Right Side Seal Bag Making Machine?
Selecting the right machine starts with understanding your production needs—material type, bag sizes, speed, features—and then choosing a trustworthy supplier.
Selection Process
Step 1: Analyze Material and Product
Film type and thickness depend on the product. Confirm compatibility with your supplier.
Step 2: Define Size and Speed
Know the minimum and maximum bag dimensions. Match required output volume with the appropriate machine.
Step 3: Identify Features
List required and optional features:
- Hole punching
- Adhesive tape
- Gusseting
- Printing integration
Step 4: Evaluate the Supplier
Look at manufacturing quality, certifications, and after-sales support. BagMec® offers:
- 5-stage quality inspection, including a 72-hour stress test
- CE certification and ISO 9001 compliance
- Optional installation, training, and fast customer support
Decision Checklist
| Factor | Your Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Film Material | e.g., BOPP, 30 micron | |
| Bag Width (mm) | e.g., 100–450mm | |
| Bag Length (mm) | e.g., 150–600mm | |
| Target Speed | e.g., 180 bags/min | |
| Essential Features | e.g., Tape, static eliminator | |
| Budget ($USD) | e.g., Under $8,000 | |
| Supplier Requirements | e.g., CE certified, offers training |
Conclusion
Understanding the price, capabilities, and types of side seal bag making machines is essential for selecting the right model. With this information, businesses can make cost-effective decisions that support growth, quality, and operational efficiency.
