10 Things to Consider When Buying Grs Certified Pp Bag

GRS provides a single, unified standard that enables companies to verify the integrity and authenticity of recycled product content. In this article, we will go through the basics of GRS requirements and help guide you through its complete process.

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What is the Global Recycling Standard?

The Global Recycling Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary certification that verifies products made with recycled content, ensuring environmental and social responsibility throughout the supply chain.

Originally developed in by Control Union Certifications, GRS is now owned and managed by Textile Exchange, a non-profit organization promoting sustainability in the textile industry.

Today, GRS certification is widely used by textile, apparel, packaging, and materials companies to:

• Confirm the presence of verified recycled content
• Promote responsible chemical usage
• Ensure fair labor practices
• Establish transparent, traceable supply chains

Key Elements of GRS Certification

The Global Recycling Standard is so widespread for a good reason. Simply saying recycled isn’t enough; it must be checked, guarded, and created responsibly.

Additionally, another common feature is that it seeks to meet the ISO definition of recycled and that both pre-consumer and post-consumer materials are accepted for certification purposes.

The company’s sustainability claims to offer biodegradable packaging are highly legitimate and must be presented carefully.

Recycled Material Content Requirements

Specifically, products should have at least 20% recycled content to be eligible for GRS certification, but recycled input materials should be at least 50% for the official GRS mark. Recyclable materials are divided into:

• Pre-consumer: waste material produced before sending the material to the consumer (factory cut-offs, for instance).
• Post-consumer: Post-consumer waste products are used and discarded by the final user materials (plastic bottles, clothing, etc.).

Producers must provide complete documentation of their material acquisition, grade of recycled feedstock, quantity of post-consumer material used, and transfer throughout the supply chain.

This extent of surveillance avoids misleading advertising and affirms that recycled canvas bag claims are justified and cannot cause harmful impacts.

Implementing GRS ensures upgrading local tracking systems, training employees on documentation protocols, and working closely with suppliers to offer certified raw materials.

Although it would involve some initial front-end investment, the long-term payback is increased visibility, enhanced material efficiency, and greater brand confidence.

Environmental and Chemical Restrictions

GRS-certified businesses are providing customers with information to demonstrate their environmental practices and due diligence. This ranges from energy-efficient processes, water conservation, and carbon emission-reducing systems to industrial waste countermeasures.

Chemical limitations are particularly important. While numerous products claim to use sustainable packaging, in reality, contain toxic dyes, finishes, or coatings.

The main objectives of the GRS are to exclude toxic and dangerous chemicals and require facilities to have detailed chemical management plans in place. This protects workers, consumers, and ecosystems as well.

Environmental studies are commonly carried out through audits, and businesses are compelled to integrate sustainability and voluntary standards into everyday business practice — not a one-off special project but a core part of manufacturing culture.

Even minor modifications, such as reducing water consumption, can lead to certification and operational excellence.

Social Responsibility and Traceability of Supply Chain

GRS guarantees that the sustainability of the textile industry is not at the expense of human dignity. Certified firms must comply with basic International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.

These include: 

• No forced or child labor
• Safe, healthy workplaces
• Fair wages and working hours
• Freedom of association and non-discrimination

Traceability keeps the entire chain intact. Every link of the chain — from the recycling plant right up to the final assembly of the end product — needs to be certified independently. Businesses now need to choose recycled materials like fabric, bags, and items to prevent traces.

The closed certification loop eliminates any unauthorized suppliers in the final product chain and guarantees the quality and integrity of GRS-brand products.

This is especially necessary for mass-scale operations or companies that buy internationally. GRS ensures transparency at all stages of the production chain so that brands can be confident that their supply chains are indeed aligned with good environmental impacts.

Third-Party Certification Process

Certification is to be achieved by independent third-party auditors approved by the Textile Exchange. They are responsible for carrying out rigorous annual and follow-up audits.

It’s not a tick-box exercise, either. The procedures align with ongoing compliance, with auditors verifying everything from input records and environmental policy to labor agreements and production reports.

Pre-audit preparation will normally include getting paperwork in order, clearly establishing SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), and making your staff aware of what GRS demands.

Advantages of Using Recycled Material in Products

From an environmental point of view, recycled intermediate products also consume much less water and energy to process. For example, the recycling stage of polyester requires 59% less energy than virgin polyester.

Applied to an entire product line or factory for sourcing strategy, this can mean gigantic cost savings and a big cutback on carbon footprint. Beyond production, using recycled materials in content also helps tell a story.

It provides brands with an effective sustainability narrative that resonates with customers and stakeholders. A straightforward “made of 100% recycled material” message, supported by GRS, delivers real value to marketing and can be a central buyer driver.

Why GRS Matters: Benefits for Brands and Manufacturers

Certifications are no longer on the table for progressive brands — they’re a business necessity for operating in governed, globalized, and values-based economies.

The GRS offers companies a solution for connecting their ESG aspirations with tangible action. For most brands, this is the open door to purchasing contracts, investment funds, or shelf space within sustainable shopping environments.

For manufacturers, GRS helps detect weaknesses in their supply chains, streamlines documentation and reduces risk with poor controls. It further builds client relationships with customers who seek certified partners.

Key Reasons Why Companies Obtain GRS Certification

• International acceptance and legitimacy.
• Competitive advantage in retail and B2B industries.
• Conformity with ESG investment guidelines.
• Reduction of risk in supply chain operations.

How to Achieve GRS Certification (Process of GRS Certification)

Attaining GRS certification begins with commitment but is simpler when done with preparation. 

1. Internal Evaluation: Audit your current operations and identify areas that need improvement.
2. Choose an Accredited Certifying Body: Submit your application, including details on products, materials, facilities, and suppliers.
3. Pre-Audit Preparation: Organize documentation, train your team, and implement necessary procedures.
4. On-Site Audit: Independent auditors inspect material flow, chemical handling, labor conditions, and traceability systems.
5. Certification Decision: If passed, your company receives a GRS certificate valid for 12 months, followed by annual re-audits.

How to Identify GRS-Certified Products and Suppliers

Due diligence is paramount when sourcing sustainably. A “recycled” production process isn’t always GRS certified — and confirming this can safeguard your brand certification against false claims.

The ultimate assurance is using the official GRS logo, which can only be applied to products with at least 50% certified recycled material. However, the logo is only the beginning — the actual evidence lies in documentation.

Always ask your supplier to present a legitimate GRS certificate and the corresponding Transaction Certificates (TCs). These confirm chain-of-custody and ensure all links in the supply chain are GRS compliant.

You can also verify suppliers using the Textile Exchange database, which is updated regularly, provides certification status, and is used by hundreds of B-to-B platforms to source products from China or worldwide.

Popular GRS Certificated Material for Reusable Bags

Choosing the right material is key to creating durable, functional, and eco-friendly reusable bags. The Global Recycling Standard (GRS) allows a wide range of recycled materials to be certified — provided they meet strict environmental, social, and traceability criteria. Below are the five most popular GRS-certified materials used in reusable bag production:

Recycled PP Non-Woven (Polypropylene)

Recycled PP non-woven fabric is made from post-industrial polypropylene waste, such as leftover fabric scraps and offcuts. It offers excellent strength and flexibility and is water-resistant — making it ideal for daily-use shopping bags.

Key Benefits:

• Lightweight and tear-resistant
• Customizable in color, size, and printing
• Affordable and highly versatile
• 100% recyclable under GRS standards

Recycled PET Non-Woven (rPET)

Derived from post-consumer plastic bottles, recycled PET is converted into soft, durable fibers suitable for non-woven or laminated bags. It’s a sustainable solution to reducing plastic waste.

Key Benefits:

• Smooth surface for high-resolution printing
• Strong and moisture-resistant
• Reduces plastic pollution in oceans and landfills
• Globally recognized as a sustainable packaging material

Recycled Cotton

The raw material for recycled cotton comes from pre-consumer or post-consumer textile waste, such as cuttings or discarded clothing. Compared to virgin cotton, it significantly reduces water, energy, and chemical usage.

Key Benefits:

• Soft, breathable, and natural texture
• Biodegradable and compostable
• Ideal for eco-conscious brands targeting premium segments
• Lower environmental impact than new cotton

Recycled Nylon

Recycled nylon is commonly made from industrial nylon waste and abandoned fishing nets (such as ECONYL®). It’s strong, stretchy, and folds easily without damage.

Key Benefits:

• Excellent abrasion resistance and tensile strength
• Lightweight and compactable
• Long lifespan for high-frequency use
• Reduces dependence on virgin petroleum-based nylon

Recycled Paper

GRS-certified recycled kraft or white paper from post-consumer waste paper. It’s biodegradable and recyclable, making it perfect for brands focused on zero-waste packaging.

Key Benefits:

• Clean, minimal look
• It supports high-end printing finishes (foil, embossing, etc.).
• Plastic-free and naturally decomposable
• Reduces pressure on forests and virgin pulp

Global Recycling Standard (GRS) vs. Recycled Claim Standard (RCS)

Global Recycling Standard (GRS) and Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) look similar at first glance — both certify and verify recycled content, anyway. However, in practice, their scope and impact are very different.

RCS only certifies the quantity and quality of the recycled content of a product during the manufacturing process. It does not certify production methods, the treatment of employees, or the chemicals used in the product.

This makes it appropriate to obtain certification only for lower-level sustainability claims. GRS, however, speaks to the whole product life cycle: recycled content, environmental management, labor practices, processing and chemical use, safety, and traceability of the supply chain. Both of them set requirements for third-party certification of recycled materials.

Feature GRS RCS Recycled Content Verification Yes Yes Environmental Practices Required Not Covered Chemical Restrictions Required Not Covered Social Responsibility Required Not Covered Full Supply Chain Traceability Required Required

It’s the gold standard for serious sustainability credentials among brands. If your brand wants to lead—not follow—in the world of sustainability, GRS is the certification to pursue. It’s not just certification—it’s a system for long-term, credible action.

Weigh down both the options RCS vs GRS before opting for one. Moreover, look down on FSC (FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL) apart from RCS and GRS certifications. Moreover, searching Google for a complete guide on FSC certification is advisable to learn about its requirements.

Protect Your Supply Chain with GRS-Certified Packaging

Want to comply with global sustainability standards? Our GRS-certified packaging ensures your company remains compliant, reliable, and eco-friendly. Join Gentle Packing in protecting your supply chain and storming the green market. Contact Us Now!

The following are the reasons why one should choose GRS-certified products from Gentle Packing:

Gentle Packing is a market leader in sustainable packaging solutions, assisting companies globally in achieving their sustainability objectives through tested, high-quality recycled packaging.

All the materials incorporated into their certified product are sourced, processed, and authenticated under the rigorous processes of the Global Recycling Standard.

Working with Gentle Packing is not just about having sustainable packaging — it is about being part of an audited supply chain that provides traceability, labor rights, and environmental integrity.

Whether you are introducing a green product line, preparing for ESG audits, or you wish to bring your packaging up to the values of today, Gentle Packing provides:

• Customization of tote, grocery, and many more bags
• Documented compliance with GRS standards
• Verification assistance for procurement teams that require it
• Quick turnaround on large orders with certified supply

Conclusion

The Global Recycling Standard (GRS) isn’t just a label on packaging; it’s a rigorous certification that means something in the world today. Make sustainability more than a message. Make it real with GRS as your cornerstone.

FAQs

Q1: What is the Global Recycling Standard (GRS), and why should companies care?

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Grs Certified Pp Bag. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

A: GRS is an international certification guaranteeing recycled content, good social and environmental practices, and chemical stewardship. It helps companies validate their sustainability claims, increase transparency, and meet increasing regulatory and consumer demands.

Q2: How can GRS-certified packaging benefit my brand or supply chain?

A: GRS-certified packaging enhances brand reputation, aids in ESG objectives and environmental and social criteria, and provides complete traceability of the recycled material. It also releases value in sustainable markets and simplifies compliance with global sustainability standards.

Q3: Is Gentle Packing GRS-certified?

As a ​custom travel bag manufacturer, staying ahead in means mastering manufacturing certifications that align with global shifts. Compliance isn’t just a choice anymore. It’s key to opening markets, gaining trust, and beating competitors. Whether you’re sourcing eco-friendly materials or streamlining production, certifications like ISO and OEKO-TEX® will define your ability to meet buyer demands while avoiding costly penalties.

Your clients now demand ​traceable supply chains and proof of ethical practices. From backpacks brands to luxury labels, buyers rank partners with certifications like SA or GOTS, which confirm sustainability and fair labor. Regulatory challenges are on the horizon. The EU’s CSRD requires stricter ESG reporting. The U.S. CPSC is updating product safety rules. Also, Asia-Pacific trade policies are changing import rules. Ignoring these shifts risks losing contracts—or worse, legal battles.

In this guide, we’ll cover the key certifications for . Are you ready to turn these certifications into a competitive advantage? Keep reading—your roadmap starts now.

Table of Contents

1. ISO

ISO  is the internationally recognized standard for ​Quality Management Systems (QMS) developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). For ​custom bag manufacturers, ISO : isn’t just a compliance checkbox—it’s a dynamic framework to elevate your operational excellence and market positioning.

As the cornerstone of manufacturing certifications, ISO empowers you to align quality management with evolving global demands while future-proofing your business against risks.

To get certified, start by defining your quality goals. Next, map the processes, from getting materials to final inspections. Finally, let leaders take charge of accountability. Unlike rigid mandates, ISO focuses on ​documented flexibility—letting you tailor systems to your unique workflows.

By addressing risks like supply chain disruptions or material defects proactively, you’ll reduce waste, boost efficiency, and build trust with eco-conscious brands demanding traceability.

Expert Insight:

” Use simple AI tools to track your manufacturing certifications deadlines and audit requirements—free apps like Trello or Notion can automate 80% of the paperwork, letting you focus on actual compliance instead of admin chaos.”

———— Ishtiak Parag, Managing Director at Victor Bags Factory Ltd.

2. FSSC

FSSC , or Food Safety System Certification , is a worldwide food safety certification. It is designed for the food industry and related sectors. It combines ​ISO  (Food Safety Management Systems) with sector-specific requirements and is benchmarked by the ​Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it a gold standard for companies seeking international market access.

FSSC is a critical manufacturing certification you need to know for . This worldwide food safety certification is based on the ISO standard, plus specific technical and program requirements (PRPs). If you make bags for food packaging or gift bags, getting certified shows your commitment to food safety and helps you meet food industry demands.

Comparison Table: FSSC vs. Other Certifications

• Scope and Relevance

FSSC applies to many operations, including packaging manufacturing. It’s important for companies making food-grade bags and containers. This certification makes sure your manufacturing meets international safety standards, giving you an edge over competitors.

▶ Certification Process

The certification process has these steps:

• Initial Certification Audit: A complete check of your factory to ensure it meets FSSC standards.
• Annual Surveillance Audits: These checks verify you’re still following the rules.
• Unannounced Audits: At least one surprise audit happens during each 3-year cycle.
• Recertification: You need to renew every three years to stay certified.

To get FSSC certification, you must:

⑴ Conduct thorough risk analysis.

⑵ Put safety programs in place for packaging.

⑶ Set up traceability systems for tracking products.

⑷ Create food defense plans and fraud prevention measures.

The newest Version 6 of FSSC , released in March , becomes mandatory from April 1, . I recommend updating your operations now to maintain your certification.

Why You Should Act Now? With more focus on manufacturing certifications in food packaging, getting FSSC puts your business ahead of regulations and customer needs. I’ve seen that certification makes your bag production safe and trusted worldwide.

3. UN Certification for Bulk Bags

UN Certification for bulk bags (also called Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers, or FIBCs) is a ​mandatory international standard established by the United Nations to ensure the safe transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous materials. In , this certification will be non-negotiable for manufacturers and suppliers handling chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, or other dangerous goods.

▶ Key Testing Procedures for UN Certified Bulk Bags

UN Certified bulk bags go through tough tests for safety and strength. These tests help meet world rules in . They include:

• Top Lift Test: Checks if the bag can hold six times its Safe Working Load (SWL) for five minutes.
• Drop Test: Tests strength by dropping a full bag from set heights to see if it stays intact.
• Stacking Test: Checks pressure resistance by stacking two identical bags for 24 hours.
• Topple Test: Sees if the bag can fall over without spilling its contents.
• Tear Test: Tests tear resistance by cutting a full bag with a knife and checking if the tear grows.
• Vibration Test: Tests durability by shaking the bag on a platform for an hour.

▶ Labeling Requirements

Come , all UN-certified bulk bags must have proper labels for clear ID and rule following. Each bag needs:

1. The UN Symbol showing certification.
2. A Packaging Code like “13H3,” showing the material and design (such as woven plastics with inner liner).
3. A Performance Standard showing if the bag meets Packing Group I, II, or III needs.
4. The Country of Manufacture for tracking. – The Manufacturer Code to ID the bag’s maker.

▶ Material Specifications for UN Certified Bulk Bags

The strength of UN Certified bulk bags comes from: High-Strength Woven Polypropylene Fabric: Resists tears and wear. Reinforced Construction: Keeps dangerous goods safely contained. Environmental Resistance: Guards bags from bad weather and rough handling.

▶ Future Considerations for

By , UN Certified bulk bags will use UN product numbers and packaging group classes. This helps track origin, materials, and making details. As rules get stricter, companies with dangerous goods will switch to these bags to stay legal and competitive.

I believe that to future-proof your business in , UN Certified bulk bags are a must, not just an option. I suggest strengthening your work, making safer shipping, and helping the environment by using these widely accepted manufacturing certifications.

4. BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative)

What is BSCI Certification?

The BSCI is a social compliance program known worldwide. It was created by Amfori, which used to be called the Foreign Trade Association. The goal is to support ethical labor practices and sustainable supply chains. As one of the most critical manufacturing certifications, BSCI aligns your operations with international standards like the ​ILO Conventions and ​UN Human Rights Charter, ensuring fair wages, safe workplaces, and environmental responsibility.

In , more than 2,400 members worldwide will use BSCI standards. This makes it vital for bag manufacturers who want to stand out in the market.

To get BSCI certified, your factories go through these checks:

• First Meeting: A talk about what will happen
• Factory Tour: Checks of work areas and conditions
• Worker Talks: Input from staff at all levels
• Paper Checks: Looking at pay records, time sheets, and safety plans
• Final Meeting: Going over what was found and next steps

Outside experts do these checks, taking 1-2 days. After that, they grade your site from A to E, with A being the best.

I suggest working with BSCI-certified bag makers. This creates trustworthy and ethical practices while meeting what today’s green-minded shoppers expect.

Relevant Reading: Top 12 Bag Manufacturers in China

5. GRS (Global Recycled Standard)

The ​Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary certification that verifies the use of recycled materials in products and ensures responsible social, environmental, and chemical practices throughout the supply chain. Managed by ​Textile Exchange, GRS is a critical manufacturing certifications for brands and manufacturers committed to sustainability, particularly in industries like textiles, apparel, and ​custom bag production.

Why GRS Certification Matters for Your Bag Manufacturing Business? 

1. Verified Recycled Content GRS certification shows your bags contain at least 20% recycled materials – things like polyester from old bottles, nylon fabric from fishing nets, or cotton from fabric scraps. This proof helps customers trust your green claims.
2. Chain Tracking With GRS, you can track all recycled materials in your bags from start to finish. You’ll know where your materials come from and how they’re made. This way, production remains responsible.
3. Environmental and Social Compliance To get GRS certified, you must follow strict green and social rules. These include proper waste handling, fair work practices, and using fewer chemicals. These practices boost your efficiency and reputation.
4. Market Opportunity: More buyers want green products now. GRS certification makes your bags more appealing to big brands. H&M and Patagonia buy GRS-certified materials. This shows a strong demand for sustainable products.
5. Recognition Through the GRS logo bags with at least 50% recycled content can show the GRS logo. This makes your products stand out and sell better in today’s competitive market.

Steps to Achieve GRS Certification for Your Bags

• Application Process Pick a certified organization to help you through certification. Begin by turning in your required application and paperwork.
• Audits and Verification Get ready for yearly on-site checks and review of your records. Fix any issues the auditors find during this step.
• Certification Decision and Maintenance After meeting all standards, you’ll receive GRS certification. Keep following the rules through regular audits to maintain your status.

6. ASTM D or EN

ASTM D and EN are the two most widely recognized certifications for ​industrially compostable materials, ensuring products break down safely in commercial composting facilities. While they share similarities, they cater to different regional markets and testing frameworks.

Key Benefits of ASTM D and EN for Your Business

1. Proof Your Products Meet Compost Standards The North American ASTM D and European EN must products to:
   • Break down at least 90% within 180 days in industrial compost sites.
   • Break apart within 12 weeks, leaving less than 10% residue on a 2mm sieve.
   • Pass safety tests showing no harm to plants or soil.
   I’ve seen these certifications give companies an edge in markets where proof of compost claims is now required.
2. Easy-to-Spot Logos for Market Trust With these standards, you can use the BPI logo (North America) or Seedling logo (Europe) on products. These known symbols build trust and show your green values at first glance.
3. Protect Your Future Business By , many places will demand third-party proof for “compostable” claims. Getting ASTM D or EN now helps you stay ahead of laws and avoid fines later.

Certification Process and Costs

Your product must pass several tests in industrial compost settings:

• Chemical tests to check metal content limits.
• CO2 production tests to confirm breakdown.
• Physical tests to make sure the material falls apart properly.

The process takes 4-6 months and costs $5,000-$10,000 per product. Groups like Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) in North America, TÜV Austria, or DIN CERTCO in Europe handle these certifications.

Expert Insight:

” Team up with your raw material suppliers to co-invest in shared manufacturing certifications like GRS or BSCI—it cuts costs by 30-50% and creates a ‘green halo’ for both your brands, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.”

———— Senait Fesshaye, General Manager at Dagoo Inc | General Manager at Qine Store | Founder of SaSu Tote Bags | Digital Marketer |

Conclusion

Manufacturing certifications such as ISO , BSCI, and UN Certification open doors to global markets. They also help you build strong trust. These certifications do more than meet rules. They keep your operations running well. They lower risks and show your brand cares about quality and ethics. By aligning with standards today, you turn compliance costs into long-term profits and customer loyalty.

Our travel bags at LeelineBags have all the needed certifications. This shows our commitment to quality. Need custom bags options? We can help! Contact us at [ protected] or check leelinebags.com. Tell me what your business needs, and We’ll find the perfect bag solution for you.

Relevant Reading:

▶ Travel Bags Market Insights: What Travelers Want in 

▶ The Truth About Hardware for Making Bags: What Pro Crafters Don’t Tell You

FAQs

Q1. Why are certifications like ISO and BSCI important for my bag business in ?
Manufacturing certifications are critical for staying competitive as global buyers increasingly prioritize suppliers that meet quality, ethical, and safety standards. Manufacturing certifications like ISO ensure consistent production processes, while BSCI validates fair labor practices. Ignoring these could lead to lost contracts, penalties, or reputational damage, especially as regulations tighten in regions like the EU and U.S.

Q2. How do I choose the right manufacturing certifications for my custom travel bags?
Your choice depends on your market and product type. ISO suits brands focused on quality control, FSSC is essential for food-grade packaging, and GRS is ideal for recycled materials. For ethical sourcing, BSCI is key. Partnering with a certified manufacturer like Leelinebags simplifies this process—contact us for tailored advice.

Q3. What’s the typical cost and timeline for manufacturing certifications like FSSC ?
Costs range from 3,000forISOto15,000 for FSSC , with timelines spanning 3–8 months. Factors like factory readiness and material complexity affect both. 

Q4. How can I prepare for audits like BSCI or UN Certification?
Start by organizing documentation (payroll, safety protocols) and conducting internal audits to fix gaps like overtime violations or missing fire exits. Training staff on manufacturing certifications requirements is crucial. 

For more Custom Woven Polypropylene Bagsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.