How to Decide Between Stand-Up and Lay-Flat Pouches for Your Product

Packaging does more than hold your product; it influences how customers perceive your brand, how long your product stays fresh, and how easily it can be displayed or shipped. One of the most common questions we receive from customers is whether they should use lay-flat pouches or stand-up pouches. Both options offer great flexibility and custom branding opportunities, but each serves a slightly different purpose depending on your product and goals.

To help you make the best decision, we’ve broken down the differences, benefits, and ideal use cases for each pouch type. Understanding the strengths of each format ensures your packaging does more than look good; it works better for your product.

Understanding the Core Differences

Both stand-up pouches and lay-flat pouches are integral to the flexible packaging industry. Based on their design and functionality during use, they serve distinct purposes. 

Stand-Up Pouches

Stand-up pouches feature a gusseted bottom that expands when filled, allowing the pouch to stand upright on shelves. These are ideal for products that benefit from high visibility in retail environments, such as snacks, pet treats, or powders.

Lay-Flat Pouches

In contrast, lay-flat pouches (or three-side seal pouches) do not have a gusset, meaning they lie flat once filled. These pouches offer unique advantages. They're typically used for single-serve items, compact packaging needs, and products stored in boxes or bulk.

The choice between stand-up and lay-flat pouches largely depends on the product's specific needs and target market. Brands must consider visibility, storage, and consumer convenience when determining which pouch type best suits their products. Ultimately, these types of pouches play a vital role in effective custom packaging strategies, catering to diverse products in the marketplace by leveraging the unique benefits of lay-flat pouches.

When to Choose Lay-Flat Pouches

Lay-flat pouches are perfect for lightweight, single-use, or compact products. These pouches are commonly used for items such as:

• Sample-sized supplements or powders
• Single-serve drink mixes
• Skincare and cosmetic samples
• Small hardware items or accessories

Custom lay-flat pouches are more cost-effective due to their simple structure and minimal material use. They also offer strong barrier protection, and because they lie flat, they can be stacked, boxed, or shipped easily. If shelf visibility isn't your primary concern, this packaging type is a great solution.

We often recommend lay-flat pouches to brands looking to introduce a new product in small runs or samples. They're easy to customize, fast to produce, and smart for low-profile packaging.

When Stand-Up Pouches Make More Sense

Custom stand-up pouches are hard to beat if your product is sold on store shelves. Because they stand upright, these pouches are ideal for retail environments where visual impact matters. Their gusseted design allows more room for content and makes them feel more premium. They work well for:

• Granola, trail mix, or candy
• Coffee and tea
• Bath salts and pet food
• Protein powders and health supplements

Stand-up pouches also offer more real estate for branding and graphics, which is valuable if your packaging needs to grab attention in a competitive space.

Considerations That Affect Your Decision

When deciding between stand-up and lay-flat pouches for your product packaging, it’s essential to consider several key factors that can significantly influence your decision. Here’s a more detailed look at each consideration:

1. Shelf Display

• Choose stand-up pouches if you need to stand out on shelves.
• Use lay-flat pouches for compact, space-saving storage or in-box use.

2. Product Weight & Volume

• Heavier or bulkier items do better in stand-up pouches.
• Lightweight or flat products are ideal for lay-flat options.

3. Cost & Budget

• Lay-flat pouches are generally more cost-effective.
• Stand-up pouches offer more visibility but can require slightly more material.

4. Shipping & Storage

• Lay-flat pouches are more efficient at storing and shipping.
• Stand-up pouches require more space but can reduce the need for secondary display packaging.

The correct pouch format involves a careful evaluation of how these factors relate to your specific product and business goals. By considering factors such as shelf display, product weight, cost, and shipping efficiency, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your product's requirements and overall marketing strategy.

Make a Confident Choice for Your Brand

Selecting the right pouch type is vital in building a successful product. Both stand-up and lay-flat pouches offer advantages depending on how and where your product is sold. With the proper guidance and support, you can choose a format that fits your brand, budget, and business goals—without compromise.

Our Customization Options for Both Formats

No matter which pouch you choose, we make customization fast and straightforward. At The Packaging Lab, lay-flat and stand-up pouches are available in various sizes, materials, and finishes. Whether you prefer a matte, glossy, or transparent window finish, we offer it all, with no order minimums.

You can upload your design, use our dielines and templates, or use our in-house Design For Me service. Plus, with free FedEx Ground shipping and production turnarounds as fast as 24 hours, you can go from idea to finished packaging faster than ever.

Get the Right Packaging, Right Now—Start With The Packaging Lab

Choosing between stand-up and lay-flat pouches depends on how your product is used, displayed, and shipped. By understanding the differences in structure, cost, and use cases, you can pick a pouch that enhances your product and brand image while staying within budget.

Contact The Packaging Lab today if you're ready to enhance your packaging. We are your trusted source for custom flexible packaging, serving startups and established brands. We aim to provide a fast, transparent, flexible, and supportive packaging experience focused on quality, convenience, and speed. Customers choose us for our zero minimum order policy, quick production times, free proofs, and user-friendly online design tools. Explore our pouch options and begin your custom packaging journey today!