
Ordering custom plastic bags for your shop may seem straightforward, but there is more to it that meets the eyes. Considering the number of options, you need to find a carrier bag that matches the type of products you intend to sell. You also need to set a realistic budget for buying these custom bags and ensure you don’t go overboard.
Usually, there are more than a few questions that plague the mind of someone who has no experience with plastic carrier bags. Do I need a punched-out handle or a vest-type bag? What bags offer the best brand visibility? We answer all these questions and more to ensure you make a fully informed purchase decision. Without further ado, let’s get right to it.
Learn About the 5 Type of Custom Plastic Bags
Plastic carrier bags or polythene bags are available in several different types. These types vary in tensile strength, handle type, storage capacity, and of course price per piece.
Vest Handle Bags: This is probably the most recognisable plastic bag design. Often used by supermarkets and local grocery shops, these plastic bags are extremely lightweight and strong.

If you own a shop where you get a lot of low-value purchases, then these can be given away to customers as free carrier bags. A lot of restaurants and food delivery services also use this bag. These bags are usually manufactured from 20 microns HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) material which has an excellent strength to weight ratio.
Flexi Loop Handle Bags: As its name suggests, these bags have flexible loop handles. Significantly more durable and attractive than vest handle bags, these are ideal for shops that sell high-value items.

Flexi loop handle bags are the carrier bag of choice for garment shops and footwear outlets. The flat rectangular sides of the bags also offer a great branding medium. Slightly more expensive than die cut handle bags, these bags are available in different thicknesses, ranging from 50 to 75 microns.
Die Cut Handle Bags: Also known as punched handle plastic bags, these offer the best blend of economical pricing and stylish design. These are more durable than vest type custom plastic bags and they offer an unobstructed view of the printed logo.

These bags are available in different thickness ranging from 30 microns to up to 100 microns. While they are more expensive than vest handle custom plastic bags, they are still considered an economical choice.
Clip Close Handle Bags: These bags have a reinforced hard plastic clip closing. Clip close handle bags are highly reusable, and they have a superior carrying capacity.

The reinforced clip ensures the sides of the plastic bag remains flat at all times. This, in turn, allows the printed logo to be displayed in all its glory.
Duffle Style Bags: Staying true to its name, duffle style bags come with shoulder straps for ease of carrying. These are specialised carry bags that are often used by fashion shops.

Their innovative design encourages people to take notice. Their attention-grabbing appearance makes them a great option for any shop that sells high-value items to promote their brand. These duffle style carrier bags are also extremely durable as they are made from plastic films ranging from 75 to 120 microns.