The Ultimate Guide to Buying Copy Paper in Bulk

Introduction

Copy paper is one of the most frequently purchased office supplies, and buying in bulk is one of the easiest ways to reduce costs and avoid running out at the worst possible moment. But not all copy paper is created equal. Here's everything you need to know before you buy.

Understanding Paper Weight

Copy paper is measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). The most common office paper is 20lb (75gsm), which is suitable for everyday printing. For presentations or documents that need to feel more substantial, consider 24lb or 28lb paper. For cardstock printing, 90lb cardstock is ideal.

Paper Size Matters

The standard office paper size in North America is 8.5" x 11" (Letter). Legal-size paper (8.5" x 14") is used for legal documents and contracts. Make sure you're buying the right size for your printer and your needs.

Brightness and Whiteness

Paper brightness is rated on a scale of 1-100. Higher brightness (92-96) produces sharper, more vibrant prints and is ideal for presentations and client documents. Standard brightness (84-88) is fine for everyday internal printing.

How Much Should You Buy?

A standard ream contains 500 sheets. A case typically contains 10 reams (5,000 sheets). For a small office printing 500 pages per week, a case lasts about 2 months. Buying by the case reduces cost per sheet and minimizes reordering frequency.

Color Copy Paper

For creative projects, presentations, or colour-coded filing systems, coloured copy paper is a great option. It's available in a variety of colours and the same standard sizes as white paper.

Conclusion

Buying copy paper in bulk is a smart move for any office. At Amalfi Supplies, we carry letter-size copy paper, colour copy paper, and cardstock in bulk quantities to keep your office stocked and your costs low.