Kraft Paper
Also known as: Brown Paper, Packing Paper, Butcher Paper
Definition
Kraft paper is a heavy-duty paper made from wood pulp using the kraft process, which produces strong, tear-resistant paper. Its natural brown color and sustainability make it a popular eco-friendly packaging material for void fill, wrapping, and cushioning.
Why “Kraft”?
“Kraft” comes from the German word for “strength.” The kraft pulping process produces longer, stronger paper fibers than other methods, making kraft paper exceptionally durable.
Kraft Paper Uses in Shipping
Void Fill
- Crumpled to fill empty space
- Prevents items from shifting
- Cushions against impacts
- Recyclable and compostable
Wrapping
- Individual item protection
- Prevents scratches and scuffs
- Clean, professional appearance
- Works for fragile items
Cushioning
- Layers between items
- Padding around products
- Combined with other materials
- Shock absorption
Interleaving
- Between stacked items
- Separates surfaces
- Prevents friction damage
- Common for prints, plates
Types of Kraft Paper
| Type | Weight | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 30# | Light | Void fill, interleaving |
| 40# | Medium | General wrapping |
| 50# | Heavy | Wrapping heavy items |
| 60# | Extra heavy | Industrial, cushioning |
Higher weight = thicker and more durable.
Kraft Paper vs. Alternatives
| Material | Protection | Sustainability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft paper | Good | Excellent | Low |
| Bubble wrap | Excellent | Poor | Medium |
| Air pillows | Good | Poor | Low |
| Tissue paper | Light | Good | Low |
| Foam | Excellent | Poor | High |
Kraft Paper Dispensing
Fan-Fold Packs
- Pre-folded stacks
- No dispenser needed
- Easy storage
- Good for low volume
Roll Dispensers
- Continuous rolls
- Cut to size needed
- More economical
- Requires dispenser stand
Automated Crumplers
- Machine-crumpled paper
- Consistent void fill
- Fast production
- Higher volume operations
Kraft Paper Benefits
Sustainability:
- Made from renewable resources
- Recyclable in curbside bins
- Compostable
- Biodegradable
- Often contains recycled content
Customer perception:
- Eco-friendly appearance
- Premium, artisanal feel
- Aligns with sustainable brands
- No plastic concerns
Practical:
- Won’t pop like air pillows
- Stays in place
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Versatile
Using Kraft Paper Effectively
- Crumple loosely - Tight balls don’t cushion well
- Layer for fragile items - Multiple sheets for protection
- Wrap fully - Cover entire item surface
- Fill all gaps - Items shouldn’t move
- Don’t over-pack - Creates unnecessary weight
- Consider presentation - Clean finish looks professional
Kraft Paper Costs
| Format | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| 30# roll, 18" × 900' | $25-40 |
| 40# roll, 24" × 900' | $35-50 |
| Fan-fold pack | $20-30 |
| Honeycomb paper | $40-60 |
Buying in bulk significantly reduces per-foot cost.
Ready to ship?
Compare shipping rates instantly
Try Free