What Is the Size of a Plastic Grocery Bag?

The typical plastic grocery bag—commonly referred to as a t-shirt or 1/6 barrel bag—measures approximately 12 inches wide, 7 inches deep (gusset), and 22 inches high. This size offers a balanced combination of volume and durability and is widely used across the retail industry¹.

While 12" x 7" x 22" is the standard, dimensions may vary depending on retailer preferences or regional requirements. Bag-making machines are often built with adjustability in mind to accommodate these variations. Machines from manufacturers like BagMec® are capable of customizing width², height, and gusset depth to meet specific customer requirements.

Bag-making machines typically range from $17,000 to $32,000, offering flexibility in width (10–15 inches) and height (20–25 inches). This allows producers to meet demands from various markets, including large retail chains and smaller convenience stores.

How Are Plastic Bag Sizes Measured?

Plastic bag dimensions follow a Width x Depth x Height format:

• Width: The flat measurement across the front of the bag.
• Depth (Gusset): The side panel's width when fully expanded.
• Height: The full length from the bottom of the bag to the top of the handles.

Accurate measurement is essential for manufacturing efficiency, cost control, and ensuring the bags fit retail fixtures and perform as expected.

Width, Gusset, and Height Explained

• Width: Measured across the bag’s flat face. Machines control this via servo-driven rollers.
• Gusset (Depth): Indicates the expandable side folds. A 7-inch gusset adds volume when opened. Gusseting units on machines ensure consistent folding.
• Height: Measured from the bottom seal to the top of the handles. Set through a programmable logic controller (PLC).

The Importance of Precision in High-Volume Production

Minor errors in measurements can compound quickly in high-speed production. For example, a deviation of a few millimeters can lead to significant material waste over time or create compatibility issues with retail bag holders. Machines equipped with features like laser calibration³ and multi-stage inspection protocols⁴ ensure precise cuts and folds.

Table: Standard 1/6 Barrel Bag Measurements

What Are the Different Types of Grocery Bag Sizes?

Plastic grocery bags are produced in several sizes to match different retail needs. These sizes are often described using the "barrel" system—an industry shorthand derived from historical paper bag measurements.

Sizes range from small 1/8 barrel bags to larger 1/5 barrel options.

The "Barrel" Classification System

• 1/8 Barrel: Small-sized bags (10" x 5" x 18") suitable for single-item purchases.
• 1/6 Barrel (Standard): A common size for general retail use (12" x 7" x 22").
• 1/5 Barrel: Larger bags (13" x 8" x 24") used for bulk purchases.

Specialty Bags Used in Grocery Settings

• Produce Bags: Thin, flat bags (typically 12" x 20") used for fruits and vegetables. Produced with side sealing machines.
• Wicketer Bags: Designed for automated packing lines, such as for bread or poultry. Usually sized around 10" x 4" x 18".
• Heavy-Duty Bags: Reusable-style bags made from thicker film, produced using specialized heavy-duty bag machines.

Table: Grocery Bag Size and Machine Guide

How Does Material Impact a Grocery Bag’s Function?

While dimensions define a bag’s size, the material determines its strength, feel, and suitability for specific uses. The most common materials include HDPE, LDPE, PLA, and PCR (post-consumer recycled content).

HDPE vs. LDPE

• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): The standard material for t-shirt bags. Lightweight, strong, and crinkly. Cost-effective and typically used in high-speed bag production.
• LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): Softer, more elastic, and puncture-resistant. Used for premium or heavy-duty bags⁵. Requires machine adjustments for tension and sealing.

Sustainable Materials: PLA and Recycled Film

• PLA (Polylactic Acid): A biodegradable plastic derived from plant-based sources. Compostable in industrial settings. Machines may need custom handling due to PLA’s brittleness.
• Recycled Content (PCR): Post-consumer recycled materials can have inconsistencies in film thickness⁶. Machines built for PCR require robust tension systems to maintain production quality.

Machines designed to accommodate different materials help manufacturers adapt to environmental regulations and consumer preferences. Versatility in handling materials also supports consistent performance across various film types.

Conclusion

The standard 12" x 7" x 22" plastic grocery bag is a widely accepted benchmark, but the full range of grocery bag sizes and materials is broad. Bag-making equipment must be flexible and precise to accommodate this variety efficiently. Machines capable of adjusting dimensions and processing different films help producers meet diverse customer demands while minimizing waste and maximizing productivity.