What does 80 × 80 mm mean?

It normally means an 80 mm roll width and an 80 mm outside diameter. Core size, GSM and paper length still need to be confirmed separately.

Does the same roll diameter always contain the same paper length?

No. Paper thickness, GSM, core diameter and winding tension all influence the final length.

What information is most important for a quotation?

Provide width, outside diameter, GSM, core specification, packaging, quantity and destination market.

How to Specify Thermal Paper Rolls Without Costly Mistakes

A roll described only as “57 mm” or “80 mm” is not a complete specification. Two rolls with the same width can have different diameters, paper lengths, cores and printer compatibility. A precise request reduces sampling delays, prevents unusable stock and makes supplier quotations easier to compare.

1. Confirm width and outside diameter

Thermal roll sizes are normally written as width × outside diameter, for example 80 × 80 mm. Width must match the printer's paper path. Outside diameter determines whether the roll fits inside the printer and affects the usable paper length.

Do not assume that an 80 mm roll from one market is identical to another. Measure a proven roll or confirm the printer manufacturer's specification before ordering.

2. State paper weight and expected roll length

Basis weight, commonly stated in GSM, affects thickness, stiffness and the amount of paper that fits into a given diameter. Lower GSM can provide more running length, while the correct choice depends on printer performance, image requirements and market expectations.

When comparing offers, ask suppliers to state both GSM and the method used to calculate or verify roll length. Price comparisons based only on outside diameter can be misleading.

3. Define the core

Coreless, paper core or plastic core
Core inside and outside diameter
Core width and colour when relevant
Any printer-specific spindle requirement

4. Confirm winding and thermal side

Direct thermal paper has a coated imaging side. Confirm whether the coated side must face inward or outward after winding. A simple test sample or marked reference roll prevents this detail from being lost between purchasing and production teams.

5. Specify packaging and traceability

Individual wrapping requirement
Rolls per inner pack and carton
Carton dimensions and gross-weight limits
Neutral or private-label artwork
Batch coding and repeat-order reference

A quotation-ready specification

A useful request contains roll size, GSM, paper grade, core, winding direction, packaging, estimated order quantity, monthly demand and destination country. Providing these details at the start lets the factory evaluate feasibility and quote a comparable product rather than making assumptions.