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Printed Punched-out Handle Plastic Bags

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Custom Printed Punched-out Handle Plastic Bags

Punched out handle plastic carrier bags are the industry standard plastic carrier bag. Though like a patch handle plastic bag, a punched out handle plastic bag is made from a varigauge material, meaning the bag is thicker at the top than the bottom, thus the section where the handle is punched out is much stronger. Because of the bag's simplicity, we're able to print and deliver these bags more quickly on average than any of our other bags.
These bags are highly versatile, look great when printed, are highly reusable, and are made from up to 30% recycled plastic. They’re easy to store, and have almost no printing limitations.

  • Multiple Bag Colour Options
  • Multi and Full-Colour Prints
  • One or Two-Sided Printing

Minimum Order Quantity – 500 bags.

On average, we require 3 weeks to manufacture, print and deliver a punched-out handle plastic bag. Depending on quantities and requirements we can ensure a quicker turnaround. Delivery deadlines can be discussed prior to your order. We are the only UK supplier able to accommodate specific and tight delivery turnarounds.

Our flexiloop handle plastic bags are: 

  • 100% recyclable, however they can only be recycled at specific plastic recycling points. 
  • Made from up to 30% recycled materials. 
  • More frequently reused due to their ergonomic handle. 

Loop handle plastic bags can also be made bespoke using 100% recycled plastic for orders over 10,000 bags. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity?

There is no minimum order quantity, however it is the same unit price per bag on quantities under 500 as it is for orders over 500 bags. As a result, we recommend ordering no less than 1000 bags.

What is the estimated delivery time of a punched-out handle plastic bag?

On average we're able to print and deliver these bags much quicker than any other bag in our range, and this is typically around 7-10 days. However, depending on quantities and requirements, we can ensure a quicker turnaround. We will be able to confirm lead times with you before you order so you know how long delivery will take. If you need your bags by a deadline, we are the only UK carrier bag supplier that can accommodate any specific delivery turnarounds or requirements, so please call or email us as soon as possible.

How much do punched-out handle plastic bags cost?

Punched-out handle polythene bags are the cheapest plastic bag, however the unit cost per bag can vary. Orders of below the minimum quantity of 500 bags have no savings on unit cost, so we recommend ordering at least 500. The more bags ordered, the more cost savings we can pass on. Also, factors such as the print & colouring of the bag, as well as the printing plates can all affect cost. We will break down the costs as part of your quote so please get in touch with your requirements.

What size can I get a punched-out handle plastic bag in?

We’ve broken down plastic bag sizes into a comprehensive plastic bag size guide to make sure your bag is the perfect size for what you need. For orders over 10,000 bags, we can accept bespoke size requirements.

What is the benefit of a punched-out handle plastic bag?

Punched out handle plastic bags can be recycled at supermarkets and local recycling points, and they come in a range of sizes which makes them appropriate for any purpose. Additionally, they are easy to store, cost effective, strong and look great when printed.

What is the difference between a patch and punched-out handle plastic bag?

There are very few functional differences between these bag types. Both a patch handle and a punched-out handle bag’s handles are cut as a hole in the bag’s material itself. The difference lies in how the handle is strengthened. A patch handle uses a ‘patch’ to strengthen the plastic around the handle. A punched-out handle bag is made from a varigauge material, meaning the plastic of the bag is thicker at the top, and the handle is placed in this thicker plastic area for extra strength.

Are printed plastic bags eco-friendly?

Plastic bags are robust and long-lasting, meaning they are highly reusable and can be recycled. Plastic bags are considered single-use plastics, so brands should encourage their customers to reuse and recycle their plastic bags. Because plastic does not biodegrade quickly, when plastic bags are disposed of incorrectly they can have a significant environmental impact.

Can plastic bags be recycled?

In some UK counties you are able to recycle plastic bags at home, so it’s worth checking whether this is possible at your postcode. For most, plastic bags can only be recycled at designated recycling points, the most common of which are large supermarkets.

Are plastic bags biodegradable?

No, plastic bags should be reused and recycled and cannot be biodegraded.

What does varigauge mean?

Varigauge refers to difference in the thickness (gauge) of the plastic in different areas of the bag.

What gauges (thicknesses) are available?

Our standard varigauge is 180 gauge at the bottom and 360 gauge at the top (45/90 micron) where the punched-out handle sits.

Our stronger varigauge is 250 gauge at the bottom and 500 gauge at the top (62.5/125 micron), enabling it to hold heavier items.

Can a printed plastic bag be used for food packaging?

Yes, and we’ve worked with a number of brands to produce polythene bags for food packaging. If this is the desired use case of your bag, just tell us what you need. We can provide samples of previous food packaging plastic bag projects if required.

What is the benefit of using plastic bags over paper?

Plastic bags are typically more cost effective than paper bags. They’re also easier to store, and made from stronger materials than paper bags, making them more reusable and long-lasting. Plastic is also water resistant and able to be printed clear.

Are plastic bags suitable for carrying heavy items?

Yes, all of our printed plastic bags are great for carrying heavy items as plastic is a strong material, and our standard plastic bag sizes accommodate for items larger in size. See our plastic bag size guide for more information.

Can you print on both sides of a plastic bag?

Yes, plastic bags can be printed on one or both sides.

Which products & industries should consider using punched-out handle plastic bags?

There is no product or industry which wouldn’t suit a punched-out handle polythene bag. These bags are versatile, cost effective and because they’re so thin and light, are easy to store. They’re the ideal bag for events, fashion, small businesses and even food.

Are printing plates included?

The printing plates are not included in the cost of the initial order, so these are added as a one-off cost.

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Marisa Orton

December 2025

Amazing experience with Max, who was fantastic from start to finish. Great communication, fantastic product and an overall super easy process for us which was much appreciated! 100% recommend.

Leyre Martinez

December 2025

Brilliant service! the product looked beautiful, very smart and great quality. Definitely we will use them again, they made the whole process super easy and always with such a great attitude. Thank you so much!!

Jay Lake

December 2025

Excellent professional company. Joe was very patient, helping us explore a lot of variations to achieve the best product for us. great lead times too.

Georgia Pipes

December 2025

Great service, quick delivery

Helen Gordon

December 2025

Really good communication and quick delivery, would definitely recommend!

Jason Sewelson

November 2025

Great company excellent customer service would definitely recommend.

Chris Jones

November 2025

Bought plastic, branded carrier bags for my new meal prep business and Joe was quick to offer a great quote, send over proofs for checking and ensured a speedy delivery. Very happy and will use again

Max Birch

November 2025

Hassle free purchase.

Tyson Distribution Co

July 2025

Fantastic service and extremely helpful.

Charlotte Chatterton

June 2025

Contacted as needed a printed product with a very quick turnaround, received excellent attention and the order was processed with speed and efficiency and arrived ahead of our very tight deadline! Would highly recommend, what a breath of fresh air!

As the UK’s #1 supplier of printed carrier bags, we’re able to accommodate for tight delivery deadlines that no other supplier is able to meet. We regularly work with brands that have been let down by their bag supplier, and can deliver lightning-fast turnarounds, often on the largest and most complex orders. If you need printed bags quickly, no matter your requirements, we’re here to help.

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Customer Story

Revolution Records came to us looking for high quality polythene carrier bags with punched out handles to give to customers buying records in their store.

We have used Carrierbags.co.uk for six years or so and they have never let us down. Delivery is always prompt and the quality of the bags is second to none. The bags can easily hold 7-8 heavy records which is a testament to their durability. Great company and friendly people!

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