As people's environmental awareness increases and they pursue sustainable development, many companies are starting to use compostable bags as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics. Especially some retail stores, e-commerce brands, or packaging procurement for chain supermarkets, they pay special attention to environmental protection, but at the same time, how much is the price of purchasing compostable bags in large quantities? Can companies afford it?
This article will give you a detailed introduction to the price of compostable bags and what are the impression factors, hoping to help you buy affordable compostable environmentally friendly bags.
Why Are Compostable Bags More Expensive?
Compostable bags are made from plant-based materials, such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PBAT) and corn starch (or sugar cane, etc.). Unlike plastics, these materials will completely decompose within 90-180 days under appropriate composting conditions and suitable temperature and humidity, leaving no microplastics, and are environmentally friendly.
Raw materials are more expensive, and certification and compliance costs (such as BPI, EN13432), professional compostable film extrusion and production processes, although the initial cost is higher, but companies can still accept it to enhance their brand image, comply with the green regulations proposed by the government, and meet consumers' demand for environmental protection concepts.
Average Compostable Bag Prices (Retail vs Wholesale)
Retail Prices (for individual use):
| Bag Type | Price Per Bag |
|---|---|
| Dog poop bags | $0.05 – $0.10 |
| Kitchen compost bags (3–13 gallon) | $0.15 – $0.30 |
| T-shirt shopping bags | $0.20 – $0.50 |
Bulk & Wholesale (Factory-Direct from China):
| Bag Type | MOQ | Unit Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dog poop bags | 10,000 pcs | $0.012 – $0.035 |
| Garbage bags (4–13 gallon) | 10,000 pcs | $0.02 – $0.05 |
| T-shirt carry bags | 10,000 pcs | $0.03 – $0.06 |
Each manufacturer and brand influence is different, and the price will also be different. The group can consult the compostable bag manufacturer to get preferential prices.
What Factors Affect the Compostable Bags Price?
- Bag Type and Purpose
- Dog poop bags are cheaper due to their small size and thinner film.
- Compostable mailers or heavy-duty liners are more expensive due to the larger amount of material used.
- Raw Material Composition
- PLA + PBAT blends are more expensive but certified compostable.
- Non-certified or partially bio-based bags may be cheaper but not up to standard.
- Bag Thickness and Size
- Thickness is measured in microns or mils (e.g. 18μm vs. 25μm).
- Bigger, thicker bags = more material = higher cost.
- Certifications Required
- Bags certified to EN13432, BPI (ASTM D6400), AS4736/5810, etc. require testing, lab audits, and compliance fees.
- Certifications ensure the legality of compost bins in the EU, US, and Australia.
- Printing and Customization
| Feature | Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| Plain bags | Lowest price |
| 1-4 color flexo print | +$0.002–$0.01/bag |
| Plate fee | $100–$300 one-time |
| MOQ for print | 30,000–50,000 pcs |
- Packaging Type
- Coreless Roll, Retail Box or Bulk Packaging Format Affects Unit Price
- Inner Box Printing, Barcode and Instructions Also Increase Costs
- Order Quantity
- Large Orders Can Save Significantly:
- 10,000 Pieces: Approximately $0.035/Bag
- 100,000 Pieces: Approximately $0.025/Bag
- 20-foot FCL: Approximately $0.018-0.022/Bag
- Shipping Terms
| Term | Includes | Buyer Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| FOB | Ex-Factory + Port Delivery | Freight + Customs |
| CIF | Freight included | Import clearance |
| DDP | All-in-one | Door delivery, no hidden cost |
How to Get Accurate Quotes from Manufacturers
To receive a fast and accurate quote from manufacturers like Orizon Biomaterials, prepare the following:
- Bag type (e.g. T-shirt bag, pet waste roll)
- Size (e.g. 230mm x 330mm), thickness (e.g. 20μm)
- Quantity (MOQ starts from 10,000 pcs)
- Color and print requirements (e.g. logo, 2-color)
- Certification needed (BPI, EN13432, etc.)
- Delivery term (FOB, CIF, DDP)
- Target country and port
Orizon Biomaterials – China’s Trusted Compostable Bag Factory
Orizon Biomaterials is a leading compostable bag manufacturer with:
- 16+ years of experience
- 20,000 sqm factory, 16 production lines
- Exporting to the USA, Germany, Australia, Spain, Chile & Peru
Certifications:
- EU OK Compost (Home & Industrial)
- EN13432
- ASTM D6400 / BPI
- AS4736 / AS5810
Product Range:
- Compostable trash bags (4–30 gallons)
- Dog poop bags (rolls or folded)
- T-shirt grocery bags
- Compostable poly mailers & courier bags
- Private label & OEM support
Factory-direct pricing. Global delivery. Certified quality.
FAQs
Why are compostable bags more expensive than plastic?
Due to bio-based material cost, certification fees, and lower production volumes. But they’re better for the environment and often required by regulation.
Can I order small batches?
Yes, MOQ starts at 10,000 pcs. For custom printing, MOQ is typically 30,000–50,000 pcs.
Are your bags home compostable or industrial only?
We offer both. Our OK Compost HOME and AS5810-certified products degrade at lower temperatures for household composting.
Can you help with custom printed bags?
Yes! We support OEM/private label services with 1–4 color flexo printing.
How fast is delivery to the US or Australia?
Production: 15–25 days. Shipping:
- US West Coast by sea: ~20–30 days
- Australia by sea: ~18–25 days
- Express air: 5–8 days (for samples or urgent small orders)
Conclusion
If you're sourcing compostable bags in bulk, understanding the price structure is essential. From materials to printing and logistics, many factors influence the final cost. With a reliable factory partner like Orizon Biomaterials, you can optimize both cost-efficiency and sustainability.
📞 Contact us today for a custom quote, factory pricing, or consultation on your eco-packaging project.
