
You want to pick the right takeout paper bag size for your food, so knowing the exact measurements helps a lot. Most takeout paper bags come in small, medium, large, or standard sizes. Each has its own use—like small bags for cookies or snacks, medium for lunch boxes, and large bags for group meals. Here’s a quick size guide:
| Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (centimeters) |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 8 x 4.75 x 2.5 | 20.3 x 12.1 x 6.4 |
| Medium | 10 x 8 x 4 | 25.4 x 20.3 x 10.2 |
| Large | 12 x 9 x 5 | 30.5 x 22.9 x 12.7 |
| Standard | 8.25 x 6.25 x 3.75 | 21 x 15.9 x 9.5 |

If you match your takeout paper bags to your food, you make sure everything fits and stays fresh.
Key Takeaways
- Pick the right size takeout paper bag. This helps keep food fresh and safe when delivering.
- Small bags are good for snacks, cookies, or one sandwich.They are great for quick service.
- Medium bags fit lunch boxes and combo meals. They give enough room for a few items.
- Large bags are best for group meals or catering orders. They help keep everything neat and safe.
- Using standard sizes makes work easier for staff. It lets them pack orders fast and well.
- Choose bags made from strong materials. This stops spills and keeps food good during delivery.
- Think about using eco-friendly bags like recycled or biodegradable ones. These bags are good for customers who care about the environment.
- Putting your logo on bags can help people remember your brand. It also makes the customer experience better.
Standard Takeout Paper Bag Sizes

When you order takeout, you want your food to arrive safe and fresh. Picking the right takeout paper bag size makes a big difference. Let’s break down the standard sizes of takeout paper bags so you can match your order to the perfect fit.
Small Takeout Paper Bag Size
5 x 3 x 8 in / 12.7 x 7.6 x 20.3 cm
You see small takeout paper bags everywhere. They work best for light snacks, cookies, or a single sandwich. If you need something for a muffin or a pastry, this size is a good choice. Most suppliers offer small takeout paper bags dimensions like 5 x 3 x 9 inches (12.7 x 7.6 x 22.8 cm), 6 x 3.5 x 11 inches (15.2 x 8.9 x 27.9 cm), and 7 x 4 x 10 inches (17.8 x 10.2 x 25.4 cm). These sizes are popular because they fit small items without wasting space.
Here’s a quick look at how small takeout paper bag size compares across suppliers:
| Size (W x G x H in inches) | Metric Size (cm) |
|---|---|
| 5 x 3 x 9 | 12.7 x 7.6 x 22.8 |
| 6 x 3.5 x 11 | 15.2 x 8.9 x 27.9 |
| 7 x 4 x 10 | 17.8 x 10.2 x 25.4 |
You might notice that 6″L x 3.5″W x 11″H (15 x 9.1 x 28 cm) and 8″L x 4.7″W x 10″H (20 x 10.2 x 25.4 cm) are also top sellers. These sizes give you a little extra room for a drink or a couple of snacks.
Tip: If you run a bakery or a café, small takeout paper bags help you pack single items quickly and keep them neat.
Medium Takeout Paper Bag Size
8 x 4.5 x 10.5 in / 20.3 x 11.4 x 26.7 cm
8.25 x 6.25 x 3.75 in / 21 x 16 x 9.5 cm
Medium takeout paper bags are your go-to for lunch boxes, combo meals, or a few pastries. You can fit a sandwich, chips, and a drink without squeezing everything together. The medium takeout paper bags dimensions often measure 10 x 8 x 4 inches (25.4 x 20.3 x 10.2 cm). This size works well for medium portions of snacks, cookies, bread, or pastries.
Here’s a table showing a popular medium size and what it fits:
| Size Type | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) | Suitable Food Items |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium | 10 x 8 x 4 | 25.4 x 20.3 x 10.2 | Medium portions of snacks, cookies, bread, pastries |
You get enough space for a small salad or a boxed lunch. If you run a deli or a sandwich shop, medium takeout paper bags keep your orders organized and easy to carry.
Large Takeout Paper Bag Size
16 x 12 x 5 in / 40.6 x 30.5 x 12.7 cm
Large takeout paper bags are perfect for big orders. You can pack group meals, catering packs, or several containers. The large takeout paper bags dimensions, like 16 x 12 x 5 inches (40.6 x 30.5 x 12.7 cm), give you plenty of room for bulk orders. If you need to deliver dinner for a family or a party, this size handles it with ease.
Note: Large takeout paper bags help you avoid spills and keep everything together during delivery.
Quick Comparison Table
Let’s compare the most common takeout paper bag sizes side by side:
| Bag Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 5 x 3 x 8 | 12.7 x 7.6 x 20.3 | Cookies, snacks, single items |
| Small | 6 x 3.5 x 11 | 15.2 x 8.9 x 27.9 | Muffins, pastries, drinks |
| Medium | 8 x 4.5 x 10.5 | 20.3 x 11.4 x 26.7 | Lunch boxes, combo meals |
| Medium | 8.25 x 6.25 x 3.75 | 21 x 16 x 9.5 | Sandwiches, salads |
| Medium | 10 x 8 x 4 | 25.4 x 20.3 x 10.2 | Bread, pastries, snacks |
| Large | 16 x 12 x 5 | 40.6 x 30.5 x 12.7 | Group meals, catering |
You can see how each takeout paper bag size fits different types of food. If you choose the right size, you make your takeout orders look professional and keep your food safe.
Choosing the right standard takeout paper bag size helps you save money and keeps your customers happy.
Uses for Standard Sizes of Takeout Paper Bags

Picking the right takeout paper bag size helps you work faster. It also keeps your customers happy. Each bag size is best for certain foods. Let’s see what you can put in each one and how they help your business.
Small Bag Uses
Sandwiches, muffins, cookies
Small takeout paper bags are good for one sandwich, a muffin, or a few cookies. Bakeries and cafes use these bags a lot. You can also use them for small groceries like some vegetables or a bag of candy. Many people like to grab a snack and take it home. These bags are great for quick service.
Small bags work well for:
- Confectionery and gourmet foods
- Tea, coffee, or spices
- Single pastries or slices of cake
Tip: Small takeout paper bags made from strong kraft paper keep food safe and fresh. They work for both hot and cold items.
Light snacks, single beverages
Small bags also fit snacks or one drink. Drive-throughs use these bags every day. They help you serve people quickly and keep things tidy. Some small bags have a clear window so customers can see the treats inside.
| Bag Type | Features | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft Paper Bags with Handles | Strong and easy to carry | Combo snacks, single drinks, small lunches |
| Custom Printed Paper Food Bags | Good for branding | Any small food item, marketing tool |
| Biodegradable Paper Food Bags | Eco-friendly and useful | Snacks, light groceries, responsible choice |
Medium Bag Uses
Lunch boxes, small salads
Medium takeout paper bags give you more space than small ones. You can fit a lunch box, a small salad, or a few pastries. Delis and sandwich shops use these bags a lot. They hold more than small bags but still keep things neat.
Medium bags are good for:
- Take-out meals with a sandwich, chips, and a drink
- Small salads or boxed lunches
- Several pastries or baked goods
| Application Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Take-out | Stand-up bags for meals, pastries, and baked goods |
| Fast Food Packaging | Holds burgers, fries, and drinks, keeps food safe |
| Takeaway Food | Waterproof and oil-resistant, keeps food fresh |
Multiple items, combo meals
Medium bags are great for combo meals or packing several things together. Their gusseted design gives extra space for bigger food. You can pick bags with flat, twisted, or die-cut handles for easy carrying. These bags are strong enough for heavier food, so you do not need to worry about rips.
Note: Medium takeout paper bags are made from food-grade paper. This keeps your food safe and clean.
| Feature/Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Durability | Handles large and heavy food items easily |
| Variety of Sizes | Fits different meal combos |
| Eco-Friendly Nature | Made from sustainable materials |
| Gusseted Design | Wide base for bulky items, secure transport |
Large Bag Uses
Group meals, catering packs
Large takeout paper bags are best for big orders. You can fit group meals, catering trays, or many food containers. Restaurants use these bags for family dinners, party platters, or big grocery orders. The square bottom keeps trays flat and stops spills.
Large bags are good for:
- Catering packs for events
- Multiple takeout containers
- Large grocery orders
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Premium Kraft Paper | Extra strong for heavy loads |
| Square Bottom Design | Keeps trays and containers flat |
| Twisted Paper Handles | Easy to carry large orders |
| Sized for Convenience | Fits common takeout containers, stops spills |
Multiple containers, bulk orders
Large bags help when you need to deliver many containers at once. You only need one bag for the whole order, so nothing gets lost. These bags can hold two bakery boxes or four dinner boxes at a time. Many large bags use recycled materials and are 100% recyclable, which is good for the environment.
Large bags help you:
- Carry big grocery hauls or many food containers
- Save money by using fewer bags
- Keep all items together for easy delivery
Pro Tip: A nice-looking large takeout paper bag makes your order look great and keeps everything safe while you deliver it.
No matter what you serve, you need to match the bag size to your food. When you pick the right bag, takeout is easy for you and your customers.
Takeout Paper Bag Dimensions and Selection
Choosing the right size paper bag for your takeout orders can make your business run smoother and keep your customers happy. You want to think about how much food you pack, what kind of food you serve, and how your packaging looks and feels. Let’s break it down so you can pick the best takeout paper bag dimensions for every order.
Assessing Order Volume
You should always match the bag size to the amount of food in each order. If you use a bag that is too big, food can slide around and spill. If you use a bag that is too small, items get squished. Here are some things to consider:
- Use smaller bags for single sandwiches, cookies, or snacks.
- Choose larger bags for big meals, family packs, or multiple containers.
- Custom bags help keep food secure and prevent spills.
- Sturdy handles are a must for heavy or large orders.
- Pick bags made from recycled or recyclable materials to show you care about the environment.
When you pay attention to order volume, you make sure every meal arrives safe and looks great.
Matching Food Type
Not all food fits in the same kind of bag. The type of food you serve changes the takeout paper bag packaging you need. Here’s what you should look for:
- Standard kraft paper bags work well for dry foods like bread and pastries.
- Greasy or hot foods, such as burgers and fries, need bags with special linings to stop leaks.
- Heavy items need bags made from thicker paper and reinforced handles.
If you match the bag to the food, you keep everything fresh and avoid messes. Your customers will notice the difference.
Balancing Cost and Experience
You want to save money, but you also want your customers to feel good about your food packaging. The right takeout paper bag packaging can help your business stand out. Here’s why it matters:
- 72% of people say packaging design affects what they buy.
- 61% are more likely to buy again if the packaging feels premium.
- 74% are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.
Imagine your customer leaving with a sturdy, well-designed bag that shows off your logo. The bag stays strong, even in the rain, and the food stays upright and warm. That’s the kind of experience that brings people back.
When you choose the right takeout paper bag size, you show your customers you care about quality and the environment. Good food packaging makes your brand look professional and keeps your food safe from kitchen to table.
Why Standard Takeout Bag Sizes Matter
Operational Efficiency
You want your team to work fast and keep things organized. Standard takeout bag sizes help you do just that. When you use the right size for each order, your staff can grab a bag without guessing or wasting time. This makes packing food quick and easy.
- Small bags work best for snacks and single servings. You can use them for cookies, chips, or a sandwich. They help with portion control and keep things neat.
- Medium bags fit bigger items like salads or sandwiches. You get a proper fit and a nice look for your food.
- Large bags hold family meals or big orders. They give you enough space and support for heavy items.
When you use standard sizes, you make your kitchen run smoother. You also cut down on mistakes and keep your customers happy.
Food Safety
Food safety matters every time you pack an order. Picking the correct takeout paper bag size keeps food from falling out or getting squished. You lower the risk of spills and messes during delivery. Your food stays safe and looks good when it arrives.
A bag that fits just right helps you keep everything in place. It also keeps hot and cold foods separate. This protects the quality of your food and makes sure it stays fresh. When you use the right bag, you show your customers that you care about their health and safety.
A well-sized bag also saves time for your staff. It looks professional and helps your business stand out. You build trust with your customers because they know their food will arrive safe and secure.
Customer Satisfaction
Happy customers come back again and again. The right takeout paper bags make a big difference. You want bags that are strong and easy to carry. Durable bags support heavy items and can even be reused. This gives your customers more value.
- Bags with 2-ply thickness have extra strength. They do not tear or break during transport. Your customers feel confident carrying their food home.
- Flat bottom bags stand up on their own. This keeps food upright and stops spills. It also makes your food look better when customers open the bag.
- When you use the right bag, you show you care about quality. Customers notice the details and remember your business.
A good takeout experience starts with the right bag. You keep food safe, make things easy for your staff, and leave a great impression on your customers.
Customizing and Ordering Takeout Paper Bags
Material Choices
When you choose takeout paper bags, you want them strong and safe. There are a few main choices for materials. Kraft paper bags are very popular. They can hold heavy things and keep food fresh. These bags let air in, so baked goods stay nice. They also stop too much moisture from building up. If you sell fried foods, greaseproof kraft paper bags are best. These bags stop oil and moisture from leaking out. Some businesses pick biodegradable paper bags. These bags break down faster than plastic and help the earth.
Here’s a quick look at the most common materials:
| Material Type | Durability | Food Safety Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft Paper | Strong, ideal for heavy items | Biodegradable, recyclable, eco-friendly |
| White/Black Cardstock | Thicker, premium appearance | High-quality printing, suitable for luxury packaging |
| Coated Paper | Varies, often used for aesthetics | May require additional safety considerations |
- Kraft paper bags: Let air in, good for baked goods.
- Greaseproof kraft: Stops oil and moisture, great for fried foods.
- Biodegradable paper: Made from plants, breaks down fast.
Tip: Pick the right material to keep food safe and customers happy.
Branding Options
You can use takeout paper bags to advertise your business. When you put your logo or design on the bag, it becomes a moving ad. People see your brand when someone carries your bag. Custom bags help your food stand out and make people remember you.
- Packaging makes people curious and builds trust.
- Branded bags help customers remember your business.
- Each bag shows your restaurant’s style.
- Good printing makes your takeout feel special.
A nice-looking bag makes customers feel good about their meal. It also makes them want to come back.
Order Quantities
When you order custom or branded bags, think about how many you need. Some suppliers want you to buy a lot, but others let you buy just a few. Here’s a table to help you compare:
| Supplier | Minimum Order Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yoon Pak | 5,000 pieces |
| Good Start Packaging | 6,000 bags |
| Frozen Dessert Supplies | 250 bags (1 case) |
| Pens.com | 75 bags |

If you have a small shop, you might want to order fewer bags. Big restaurants usually order more to save money. Always ask your supplier before you order. This helps you get the right number of takeout paper bags for your business.
Eco-Friendly Options
You want your business to stand out and help the planet at the same time. Eco-friendly choices for takeout paper bags make a big difference. Many restaurants now pick green options because customers care about the environment. You can do the same and show people you care.
Let’s look at some popular sustainable materials you can use for your takeout paper bags:
- Bagasse: This comes from sugarcane. It’s strong, compostable, and breaks down fast.
- PLA (Polylactic Acid): Made from plants, it’s a good swap for plastic. It’s safe for food and better for the earth.
- Paper and Cardboard: These use recycled content. They cost less and work for many foods.
- Wood and Bamboo: These grow back quickly. You see them in cutlery and special food boxes.
You can also choose bags made with recycled content. These bags use old paper to make new products. This helps cut down on waste and saves trees. Compostable options are another smart pick. These bags break down in special composting places, so they don’t fill up landfills.
Here’s a quick table to help you compare eco-friendly choices:
| Material | Main Benefit | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bagasse | Compostable, durable | Food containers, trays |
| PLA | Plant-based, safe | Lining, packaging |
| Recycled Paper | Affordable, green | Takeout paper bags |
| Bamboo/Wood | Renewable, sturdy | Cutlery, specialty items |
Did you know? The eco-friendly food packaging market is growing fast. Experts say it will grow by 8.2% every year. More restaurants are switching to biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials like kraft paper and bioplastics. This change is happening because new rules limit single-use plastics.
If you want to make your takeout orders greener, start with your packaging. Pick takeout paper bags made from recycled or compostable materials. Customers notice when you use eco-friendly bags. They feel good about buying from you and may come back again.
You can also add a message on your bag. Tell people your bags are recyclable or compostable. This helps spread the word and builds trust. When you choose green options, you help the planet and make your business look great.
Eco-friendly takeout paper bags are not just a trend. They are a smart way to show you care about the future. You help the earth, save money, and make your customers happy. Why not make the switch today?
Quick Reference Table: Standard Takeout Bag Sizes
You want to make quick choices when you pack food for your customers. A simple table can help you find the right bag size in seconds. You do not have to guess or measure every time. Just check the chart, pick your bag, and get back to serving great food.
Here’s a handy table you can use whenever you need to choose the best bag for your order:
| Bag Size | Dimensions (Inches) | Dimensions (cm) | Typical Uses | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 5 x 7 x 3.5 | 12.7 x 17.8 x 8.9 | Snacks, pastries, single sandwiches | 2-5 lbs |
| Medium | 8 x 11 x 6 | 20.3 x 27.9 x 15.2 | Lunch boxes, boxed meals, office supplies | 5-10 lbs |
| Large | 14 x 18 x 9 | 35.6 x 45.7 x 22.9 | Family meals, catering, groceries | 12-20 lbs |
Tip: If you want to keep things moving fast in your restaurant, print this table and keep it near your packing station. Your team will thank you!
Let’s break down what you see in the table:
- Small bags work best for light items. You can use them for cookies, muffins, or a single sandwich. They are also great for small gifts or snacks.
- Medium bags give you more space. They fit boxed lunches, a couple of pastries, or even some office supplies. If you pack standard takeout orders, this size is a safe bet.
- Large bags hold the most. You can fit family meals, catering trays, or a big grocery order. These bags are strong and can carry heavy loads without tearing.
You might wonder why weight capacity matters. If you put too much in a small bag, it could break. The table shows you how much each bag can hold, so you do not have to worry about spills or messes.
When you use a quick reference table, you save time and avoid mistakes. You help your staff work faster and make sure every order looks neat. Customers notice when their food arrives in the right bag. It feels professional and shows you care about their experience.
Takeout paper bags come in many sizes, but you do not need to memorize them all. Just use this table as your guide. You will always pick the right bag for every takeout order.
Note: If you ever change your menu or add new items, update your table. That way, you always have the best fit for your food.
A quick reference table is more than just a chart. It is your secret tool for smooth, stress-free packing. Try it out and see how much easier your day gets!
Conclusion
If you know about standard takeout paper bag sizes, your orders look better and stay safe. Always think about what kind of bag you need. Size, branding, eco-friendly choices, price, and storage are important too. The right bags save money and keep food safe. They also help people remember your business.If you want custom bags with strong materials and safe inks, partner with us—a professional takeout paper bag manufacturer offering full customization and wholesale service. Cool designs on bags help your brand stand out. Every order lets more people see your brand and remember it.
FAQ
What size takeout paper bag should you use for a single sandwich?
You should pick a small bag, like 5 x 3 x 8 inches (12.7 x 7.6 x 20.3 cm). This size fits one sandwich or a few cookies. It keeps your food neat and easy to carry.
Can you use the same bag for hot and cold foods?
No, you should not. Hot foods need greaseproof or lined bags to stop leaks. Cold foods work well in regular kraft paper bags. Always match the bag to your food for best results.
Are takeout paper bags recyclable?
Yes! Most kraft paper bags are recyclable. Just make sure the bag is clean and free from food residue. Some bags with plastic linings may not recycle easily, so check the label.
How do you choose the right bag size for combo meals?
Look at what goes in the meal. Medium bags, like 8 x 4.5 x 10.5 inches, fit a sandwich, chips, and a drink. If you pack more items, use a large bag for extra space.
What is the weight limit for standard takeout paper bags?
Most small bags hold 2–5 lbs. Medium bags carry 5–10 lbs. Large bags can handle up to 20 lbs. Always check with your supplier for exact weight limits.
Can you customize takeout paper bags with your logo?
Absolutely! Many suppliers offer custom printing. You can add your logo, brand colors, or a special message. Custom bags help your business stand out and look professional.
What eco-friendly options do you have for takeout bags?
You can choose bags made from recycled paper, bagasse, or bamboo. Some bags are compostable or biodegradable. These options help you reduce waste and show customers you care about the environment.



