Understanding Paper GSM: A Simple Explanation of Paper Weight and Quality

Choosing the right paper for your office or POS system can be confusing without understanding key specifications. One of the most important factors is GSM, which stands for grams per square meter. GSM measures the weight and thickness of paper, helping businesses determine its durability, quality, and suitability for specific tasks.

At MilaMima, we provide high-quality office and thermal paper for Canadian businesses, and understanding GSM ensures you select the right paper for every need—from printing receipts to professional reports.

What is Paper GSM?

GSM refers to the weight in grams of a single sheet of paper that is 1 square meter in size. It’s a universal metric used worldwide to categorize paper types and quality. Higher GSM indicates thicker, sturdier paper, while lower GSM corresponds to lighter, thinner sheets.

Why Paper GSM Matters

Understanding GSM is crucial for several reasons:

• Durability: Higher GSM paper is more robust and less prone to tearing, ideal for reports, invoices, or documents that need to last.
• Print Quality: Thicker paper absorbs ink or toner better, reducing bleed-through and enhancing professional appearance.
• Compatibility: Certain printers and POS systems require specific paper thicknesses. Using the wrong GSM may cause jams or poor printing performance.
• Perception: Higher GSM paper feels more premium, making it ideal for official documents, customer invoices, and branded marketing materials.

Common GSM Ranges for Office Paper

Here are typical GSM ranges for various office and POS uses:

• 60–80 GSM: Standard copy paper for everyday printing, memos, and notes.
• 90–120 GSM: Slightly heavier paper for professional reports, letters, and presentations.
• 120–160 GSM: Cardstock and brochures; suitable for invitations, certificates, and marketing materials.
• Thermal Paper Rolls: Usually 55–80 GSM; optimized for POS systems, ensuring clear printing and smooth operation.

How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Business

Consider the purpose, printer type, and expected durability when selecting paper:

• For receipts and POS transactions, use 55–80 GSM thermal rolls for clarity and reliability.
• For internal documents and memos, standard 75–80 GSM copy paper is sufficient.
• For customer-facing reports, invoices, or marketing materials, consider 90–120 GSM for a professional feel.
• Always ensure your printer or POS system supports the chosen GSM to avoid jams and errors.

Pro Tips for Canadian Businesses

• Label paper by GSM for easy identification and reduce confusion among staff.
• Purchase high-quality, eco-friendly paper options from trusted suppliers like MilaMima.
• Use BPA-free thermal rolls for POS systems to protect employees who handle receipts daily.
• Maintain an organized inventory to ensure the right GSM is always on hand for specific tasks.

Understanding paper GSM helps Canadian businesses make informed choices, improve print quality, and maintain professional office operations. Partnering with a reliable supplier like MilaMima guarantees consistent, high-quality paper suitable for every office and POS need.