What Is a Gusseted Bag? Uses, Benefits, and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever handled a bag that expands at the sides or bottom to hold more volume — chances are, you were using a gusseted bag. These bags are a staple in the packaging world, especially in food, retail, and industrial sectors. But what exactly is a gusseted bag, and why does it matter to manufacturers and distributors?

What Is a Gusseted Bag?

A gusset is a fold or expansion in the side or bottom of a bag. This added material allows the bag to expand outward when filled, making it capable of holding bulkier or heavier items compared to flat, layflat bags. 

There are two main types: 

• Side Gusset Bags – Expand on the left and right sides 

• Bottom Gusset Bags – Expand only at the base bottom 

  
  

At M Plastics, we specialize in side gusseted bags with a bottom seal, especially in wicketed formats for high-speed automated packing. 

How Are They Made at M Plastics?

Unlike some facilities that rewind film into rolls before converting it into bags, our production is fully in-line — meaning everything happens in one streamlined process: 

• LDPE resin is melted and extruded into a film bubble. 

• Gussets are formed in-line using boards and collapsing frames. 

• Instead of rewinding into rolls, the film goes straight from extrusion to cutting and sealing. 

• The bags are separated, stacked, wicketed (if needed), and packed directly into boxes. 

• This method increases speed, reduces waste, and keeps the product cleaner and more consistent — perfect for customers needing boxed wicket bags ready for packing lines. 

What Are Gusseted Bags Used For?

Gusseted bags are incredibly versatile. Common applications include: 

• Bread and baked goods 

• Produce and bulk food items 

• Parts packaging (nuts, bolts, electronics) 

• Box liners or trash liners 

• Retail and promotional packaging 

Thanks to the gussets, they expand to fit oddly shaped or bulky products while lying flat during storage and shipping.

Why They Matter to Manufacturers?

For blown film manufacturers like M Plastics, gusseted bags are a high-performance, customizable packaging solution that meets the evolving demands of food processors, OEMs, and distributors. 

• Efficient storage with compact stacking 

• Compatibility with automated equipment 

• Greater capacity per unit 

• Reduced downtime with wicketed formats

Whether it’s a large volume order or a specialized food-safe requirement, gusseted bags give clients versatility without compromise. 

Final Thoughts

Gusseted bags might seem simple — but they solve big packaging problems every day. Their ability to expand while maintaining strength and compatibility with automation makes them an essential product in modern manufacturing and distribution. 

 Want to learn more about gusset sizes, thickness options, or wicketed formats? Contact M Plastics and we’ll help you get started with the right specs.