A practical paper specification guide

Start with the application

Tell us what the paper or board will become, which machine or press will process it, and what performance matters most.

Grammage is only one part of the specification

Grammage describes mass per unit area, usually in grams per square metre (gsm). It does not describe thickness or stiffness on its own. For board, add caliper and the structural performance you need.

Describe the surface

State coated or uncoated, the number of coated sides and the finish you want. C1S means coated on one side; C2S means coated on both sides. Include gloss, silk, matte, shade and reverse-side requirements where relevant.

Specify sheets or reels

For sheets, include dimensions, grain direction and packing. For reels, include width, core, maximum diameter, reel weight and any machine constraints.

Make the grade requirements clear

Include opacity and print process for publication papers; stiffness and caliper for carton board; and required strength values for corrugated liners and medium. Send a reference specification or technical data sheet if you have one.

Include volume, destination and timing

Specify the quantity and unit, delivery city and country, required date and whether the enquiry is for a trial, a single production run or repeat supply.

Request the documents you need

Food-contact, fibre, chemical, environmental and certification requirements must be requested explicitly and confirmed for the specific proposed grade. A material-family listing or illustrative image is not proof of compliance.

Ready to enquire?

Send your paper specification. Grade, availability, minimum order, price and lead time are confirmed by quotation.