Paper Weight Chart: Convert GSM to Points, Lbs & mm
This paper weight chart converts GSM to points, lbs, and mm, and lists typical paper weight ranges for cardboard, kraft, corrugated, rigid, and label stock — everything you need before specifying a box.
Paper weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter), caliper points (1 pt ≈ 0.0254 mm thickness), or US basis-weight pounds. Folding cartons and mailers typically use 250–300 GSM stock (about 10–12 pt); premium retail boxes run 350–450 GSM (14–18 pt); rigid gift boxes use 600–1800 GSM chipboard. Quick rule: divide GSM by 25 to estimate points. Prime Custom Boxes prints on all of these stocks with no minimum order quantity, free 2D/3D mockups, and free US shipping over $100.
Paper Weight Converter
Type a number into any field — the other three update automatically.
Conversions are standard approximations for SBS paperboard (basis 25×38″, 1 pt = 0.0254 mm). Actual thickness varies a little by board bulk — confirm your exact stock on a quote or physical sample. For box sizing alongside your paper weight choice, see our free packaging tools or types of custom boxes guide.
Cardboard (SBS / C1S / C2S)
Solid Bleached Sulfate board — smooth, white surface, ideal for retail packaging and cosmetic boxes.
| Points (pt) | GSM | Lbs (per ream) | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 pt | 250 gsm | 65 lb | Folding cartons, lightweight boxes |
| 12 pt | 300 gsm | 80 lb | Standard packaging, product boxes |
| 14 pt | 350 gsm | 90 lb | Premium retail boxes, cosmetics |
| 16 pt | 400 gsm | 100 lb | Sturdy product packaging |
| 18 pt | 450 gsm | 110 lb | Heavy-duty retail, electronics |
| 24 pt | 600 gsm | 150 lb | Rigid setup boxes, luxury packaging |
Kraft Board
Natural brown paperboard — eco-friendly, strong, and suited to sustainable packaging positioning.
| Points (pt) | GSM | Lbs | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 pt | 300 gsm | 80 lb | Light kraft boxes, sleeves |
| 24 pt | 400 gsm | 100 lb | Standard kraft packaging |
| 30 pt | 500 gsm | 130 lb | Sturdy kraft mailers |
| 36 pt | 600 gsm | 150 lb | Heavy kraft boxes |
Corrugated Board
Fluted board for shipping and protective packaging — measured by flute type, not points.
| Flute | Thickness | Flutes/ft | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-Flute | 1.5mm (1/16″) | 90 | Retail boxes, pizza boxes, displays |
| B-Flute | 3.0mm (1/8″) | 47 | Die-cut boxes, inner packaging |
| C-Flute | 4.0mm (5/32″) | 39 | Shipping boxes (most common) |
| A-Flute | 5.0mm (3/16″) | 33 | Heavy-duty shipping, fragile items |
| BC-Flute | 6.5mm (1/4″) | — | Double-wall, heavy products |
Rigid Board (Chipboard)
Thick, non-folding board for luxury packaging, gift sets, and premium presentation.
| Thickness | GSM | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0mm | 600 gsm | Light rigid boxes, jewelry |
| 1.5mm | 900 gsm | Standard rigid boxes, cosmetics |
| 2.0mm | 1200 gsm | Premium gift boxes, electronics |
| 2.5mm | 1500 gsm | Heavy luxury packaging |
| 3.0mm | 1800 gsm | Large rigid boxes, display cases |
Label / Sticker Paper
Self-adhesive paper for product labels and stickers, available in matte, gloss, and clear finishes.
| GSM | Type | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| 60 gsm | Thin label | Address labels, price stickers |
| 80 gsm | Standard label | Product labels, bottle labels |
| 100 gsm | Premium label | Wine labels, luxury product labels |
| 120 gsm | Heavy label | Waterproof labels, outdoor stickers |
Quick Conversion Formulas
Paper Weight FAQ
What is 18 pt in GSM?
For standard SBS/C1S paperboard, 18 pt is about 450 gsm (roughly 110 lb). Points measure caliper (thickness) while GSM measures weight, so the exact figure varies a little by board bulk — see the table above for your stock.
What is 16 pt in GSM?
16 pt is about 400 gsm, or roughly 100 lb, for typical paperboard.
What is 12 pt in GSM?
12 pt is about 300 gsm, or roughly 80 lb.
How do I convert GSM to mm?
GSM measures weight and mm measures thickness, so there’s no single universal ratio — it depends on the board’s bulk. Convert through points instead: 1 pt equals 0.0254 mm. For example, 24 pt board (about 600 gsm) is roughly 0.61 mm.
What is 350 gsm in lbs?
350 gsm is about 90 lb, or roughly 14 pt, for standard paperboard.
Know Your Weight? Get a Free Quote
Tell us the GSM, points, or lbs you need along with your box spec — a person replies with real pricing.
Not sure which weight you need?
Send your product and use case and we’ll recommend the right board weight — no obligation.
Phone: +1 (925) 291-3420
Quote form: primecustomboxes.com/quote/
