Custom Zipper & Ziplock Bags: Types, Uses & How to Order

Short answer: Zipper and ziplock bags are resealable plastic bags used to store, display and ship products. The two main types are press-to-close ziplock bags (pinch the track to seal) and slider zipper bags (a plastic slider glides the bag shut). This guide explains the types, materials, features and how to order custom zipper bags for retail and industrial use.

Press-to-close vs. slider zipper

Type How it seals Best for
Press-to-close (ziplock) Pinch the interlocking track Food, small parts, everyday storage
Slider zipper Slide a plastic tab across the track Apparel, cosmetics, premium retail
Hang-hole / euro slot Adds a hole to hang on a peg Retail and hardware display

Materials and finishes

Most zipper bags are made from PE for flexibility and clarity, or from frosted EVA/CPE for a soft, premium hand-feel used in apparel and cosmetics. High-clarity PVC or vinyl adds durability for travel and accessory pouches. For food contact, use a food-grade PE; see our food-grade packaging guide. To compare clear, frosted and foil looks, read frosted vs clear vs foil packaging.

Useful features

  • Euro hang hole — hangs the bag on a retail peg.
  • Tear notch — easy opening above the zipper.
  • Write-on panel — label contents by hand.
  • Vent holes — release air for garments and soft goods.
  • Gusset — extra depth for bulkier items.
  • Custom print — logo, colors and instructions.

Common uses

  • Food storage — food-grade, resealable, freezer-safe options.
  • Apparel & accessories — frosted slider bags with a hang hole.
  • Electronics & hardware — clear PE bags for parts and components.
  • Cosmetics & travel — durable vinyl or frosted pouches.
  • Retail sets — printed, hang-ready packaging.

Not sure which bag format fits your product? Start with our guide on how to choose a packaging bag.

How to order custom zipper bags

  1. Pick the closure — press-to-close or slider.
  2. Choose material and finish — clear PE, frosted EVA/CPE, or vinyl.
  3. Add features — hang hole, tear notch, vent holes or gusset.
  4. Set size and print — dimensions, thickness, colors and artwork.
  5. Sample and approve before mass production.

Browse our zipper & ziplock bag range.

About Bowen New Material

Bowen New Material (Dongguan) Co., Ltd. is an OEM/ODM custom packaging manufacturer producing zipper, ziplock and slider bags with ISO 9001 quality control and 100% pre-shipment inspection. We tailor closure, material, finish, features and print to your product and market. See our custom packaging service.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a ziplock and a slider zipper bag?

A ziplock (press-to-close) bag seals when you pinch the interlocking track. A slider bag seals when you glide a plastic slider across the track, which is easier to open and close and looks more premium.

Are ziplock bags food-safe?

They can be, when made from food-grade PE with approved inks. Request food-grade documentation for any bag in direct contact with food.

Can zipper bags be custom printed with a logo?

Yes. Zipper and slider bags can be fully custom-printed with your logo, colors and instructions, and can include a euro hang hole for retail display.

What is a frosted zipper bag?

A frosted bag uses a matte EVA/CPE film that gives a soft, premium hand-feel and a translucent look, popular for apparel and cosmetics.

What is the minimum order for custom zipper bags?

MOQ depends on size, material and print. Confirm the minimum order quantity, tooling cost and lead time with the manufacturer before ordering.

Need custom zipper or ziplock bags? Tell us the closure, size and print and we will quote with MOQ and lead time. Request a custom quote.