Custom Side Gusset Bags: The Classic Coffee Bag
Side gusset bags expand at the sides instead of the base. When filled they form a tall, rectangular bag that holds a lot of product for its footprint and packs tightly in shipping cartons. It is the traditional coffee bag shape, and it remains one of the most efficient and affordable ways to package coffee, tea, grains and loose goods.
We print custom side gusset bags in full color on the front, back and both gussets, with a choice of tin tie, zipper or heat seal closures and an optional one-way valve.
How Side Gusset Bags Close
- Tin tie: the top is folded down and held with a bendable metal strip glued to the bag. It is quick to reseal and gives a classic café look.
- Zipper: a press-to-close zipper below the top seal for easy resealing at home.
- Heat seal only: the lowest cost option for products used in one go or decanted into another container.
- One-way valve: lets freshly roasted coffee release gas without letting oxygen in.
Using the Gussets
The side gussets are prime space for information that would clutter the front: origin, altitude, tasting notes, brew ratios, roast date or a QR code to your shop. Many roasters print a single bag design and add a small label for each coffee, which keeps print costs low across a large menu.
Side Gusset or Flat Bottom?
Side gusset bags cost less and pack tighter, which matters when you ship in bulk or sell wholesale. Flat bottom bags stand more steadily and look more premium on a retail shelf. Both protect coffee equally well when made with the same film and valve, so the choice usually comes down to budget and how the bag will be displayed.
Who Uses Them
Coffee roasters and cafés selling retail bags, tea blenders, bakeries selling flour and grains, and food service suppliers packing bulk refills. For a full overview of coffee options, see custom coffee bags, and for loose-leaf tea see custom tea pouches.
Getting the Best Look From Side Gusset Bags
Side gusset bags fold flat for shipping, so creases appear along the gussets once filled. Designs that use bold blocks of color and keep small text away from the folds look best. Many roasters print a simple, strong logo on the front and keep detailed information on a label, which also makes it easy to change coffees without reprinting.
Matte finishes hide fingerprints and scuffs during handling, which matters for wholesale bags that are moved around a lot. Kraft paper outers look especially good on side gusset bags for a traditional café feel.
Wholesale and Bulk Sizes
Side gusset bags scale well to larger sizes. Cafés and restaurants often buy 2 lb and 5 lb bags of beans from their roaster, and side gusset bags are the most economical way to package those volumes. Ask us for bulk sizes on the quote form.
Questions Customers Ask
Can side gusset bags have a flat base?
A quad-seal side gusset bag has sealed corners that help it stand better. Ask for quad seal on your quote.
Do tin ties keep coffee fresh?
Tin ties keep the bag closed but are not airtight. For the freshest coffee at home, choose a zipper.
Can I print on just one side to save money?
Yes. One-side or one-color printing lowers cost, and many roasters use a printed front with a plain back and a label.
Bulk Pricing and How to Order
The price shown is our bulk price per bag for the largest quantity in the table, in the smallest standard size. Send your size, closure and quantity on the form and we reply with your exact price and a free digital proof. Browse all flat bottom and gusset bags.
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Frequently asked questions
Side gusset or flat bottom: which should I choose?
Side gusset bags cost less and pack tighter; flat bottom bags stand better and look more premium. Both work well for coffee.
Why does the price say “bulk price”?
The “From” price is the price per bag for our smallest standard size when you order 5,000 bags or more. Smaller runs cost a little more per bag (see the price table), and larger sizes, extra finishes or add-ons are priced on your quote.
Do side gusset bags stand up?
When filled they stand reasonably well, though a flat bottom bag is more stable.







