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Polyethylene bags, commonly known as plastic bags, are essential for a wide range of packaging needs, offering durability, flexibility, and cost-effective protection. From safeguarding products during shipping to enhancing retail presentation, these bags provide a reliable solution for nearly every industry. With various types available, each designed for specific applications, polyethylene bags ensure optimal storage, transportation, and product safety. Understanding the different types and their uses can help businesses select the best option for their packaging requirements.
6 Basic Types of Polyethylene Bags
1. Gusseted Bags
2. Bottom-Gusseted Bags
3. Layflat bags
4. Side-Sealed Bags
5. Compartment Bags
6. Reverse Bags on a Roll (RBOR)
Gusseted Bags
Gusseted bags are used as an alternative to flat bags for many products, such as mattress bags, furniture covers, food products and more. Gusseted bags include an extra piece of material in the sides, bottom, or both to allow for more room and better strength.
Bottom-Gusseted Bags
A variation on gusseted bags, bottom-gusseted bags feature additional material at the bottom of the bag that allows it to stand up on its own, or easily slip over a product. This type of bag is available in a variety of styles and sizes. Pet food and coffee bean bags are common examples of bottom-gusseted bags.
Layflat Bags
This type of bag is the simplest (think of a zip-top bag), but also offers nearly limitless options for customization. From color to printing to size and thickness, layflat bags are a blank canvas.
Side-Sealed Bags
These bags come pre-sealed along the side(s) of your choosing, allowing for easy access on the other side for filling with your product. For example, small pouches for salad dressing may come sealed along three sides. Once the product has been added, the last side can be sealed.
Compartment Bags
Compartment bags offer multiple options for customization depending on your product. They’re used when you want to package multiple pieces separately, yet keep them together.

Reverse Bags on a Roll (RBOR)
RBORs come off the line with the sealed ends first, which allows for easy insertion when using a K&R bag inserter.
See Something You Like?
We’re happy to help create a quote for your needs – usually within a day or less. Here’s what you’ll find with our poly bags:
- Bags range in size from 5″x 10″ to 120″x 500″
- Thickness from .0005 to .010 mil
- Wide spectrum of colors and prints
- Bags wound on rolls or individually stacked in cartons
If you need something different, just let us know – our in-house R&D and testing department can help.