Kraft Paper

Kraft paper basis weight & width spec table

"Basis weight" (shown as a number followed by #, e.g. 40#) is the weight of a standard ream of the paper — higher number means thicker, stronger, heavier paper. Lighter weights are cheaper and fill more volume per pound; heavier weights protect better and wrap cleaner. Width is chosen to match the job and dispenser.

Rough guide: use the lightest weight that survives the job. Light 30–40# maximizes fill volume per pound for void applications; step to 50–75# when the paper must wrap, protect a surface, or take real abrasion.

Void fill vs. wrapping vs. dunnage

Void fill

Crumpled kraft packed into the empty space around an item so it cannot shift or take impact in transit. Lighter weights (30–40#) are ideal — they crush into more cushioning volume per pound and cost less. Fed by hand or through a paper void-fill dispenser at the pack station.

Wrapping & surface protection

Kraft wrapped directly around a product to prevent scuffs, hold parts together, or interleave stacked items. Medium 40–50# gives a clean wrap that resists tearing while staying easy to fold; use heavier 50#+ where the surface needs more protection or the item has edges.

Dunnage & load separation

Kraft used to brace, separate, and stabilize product inside a carton or on a pallet — layering between tiers, filling gaps, keeping items from rubbing. This is where heavier 60–75# earns its cost: it holds up under weight and abrasion without shredding.

How to choose kraft paper

• Job first: void fill → lighter weight for volume; wrapping → medium for a clean, tear-resistant fold; dunnage → heavier for strength under load.
• Width to fit the item and dispenser: narrow rolls (12–18") for small items and bench use; 24–36" for general packing; 48" wide-format for large items, table and floor covering, and big void cavities.
• Recyclability: kraft is made from recycled fiber and is curbside recyclable and biodegradable — a plastic-free choice for brands cutting film.
• Volume: buy rolls by the case; larger orders reach free-shipping tiers.

Pair kraft with the rest of the pack station: Void Fill for engineered cushioning, Corrugated Boxes for the outer carton, and Carton Sealing Tape to close it. For pallet-quantity pricing, request a bulk quote.

Frequently asked questions

What does the # (basis weight) mean on kraft paper?

It is the weight of a standard ream of that paper. A higher number (e.g. 60# vs. 30#) means thicker, heavier, stronger paper. It is the main way kraft rolls are graded.

What weight kraft paper is best for void fill?

Lighter 30–40# is best. It crumples into more cushioning volume per pound and costs less, which is what you want for filling empty space around an item.

What weight should I use for wrapping products?

Medium 40–50# gives a clean, tear-resistant wrap that still folds easily. Step to 50#+ when the item has edges or the surface needs more protection.

What is dunnage, and what weight do I need?

Dunnage braces and separates product inside a carton or on a pallet. Use heavier 60–75# so it holds up under load and abrasion without tearing.

Is kraft paper recyclable?

Yes. Kraft rolls here are made from recycled fiber and are curbside recyclable and biodegradable, which makes them a plastic-free alternative to bubble and film.

What widths are available?

From narrow 12–18" bench rolls up to 48" wide-format, with 24", 30", and 36" as common general-purpose widths. Available widths vary by basis weight.

Can kraft paper replace bubble wrap?

For scuff protection, wrapping, and void fill it is a strong recyclable substitute. For fragile items needing air cushioning, pair it with engineered void fill or use it alongside boxes and cushioning.

Do I need a dispenser?

Not required, but a paper dispenser speeds void-fill and wrapping at a busy pack station and reduces waste. Kraft can also be fed and torn by hand.

What is the difference between kraft paper and corrugated?

Kraft paper is a single flat sheet on a roll for wrapping, filling, and dunnage. Corrugated is rigid fluted board used to build the shipping box itself.

How is kraft paper sold?

By the roll, in bulk cases. Roll length and rolls per case vary by weight and width and are listed on each product; larger volumes qualify for free-shipping tiers.