What the weight means
The g/m² figure describes the weight of one square metre of paper. Standard copy paper is 80 g/m², high-quality letter paper 90–120 g/m². From about 160 g/m² it counts as card.
The common classes compared
| Weight | Character | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 70–80 g/m² | standard, slightly translucent | everyday letters, internal mail |
| 90–100 g/m² | sturdier, less transparent | business letters, applications |
| 110–120 g/m² | premium, stiff | certificates, official invitations |
Weight and postage: the connection
A standard letter in Germany may weigh up to 20 g. Three sheets of 80 g paper plus an envelope stay just under that; with 100 g paper often only two sheets fit. Longer letters on heavy paper slip into the next postage class. Online mailing services weigh and frank automatically — a practical advantage for multi-page letters.
Paper and printer: what matters
- Laser printers need heat-resistant paper; coated inkjet papers can smear.
- Inkjet printers benefit from matte, quick-drying paper so the ink doesn't bleed.
- Recycled paper works in both but is often greyish and rougher.
The impression on the recipient
Studies on letter impact show: heavy, white paper signals value and is less often set aside unread. For terminations or reminders that's secondary — for applications, offers and customer letters it can make the difference. Professional online print services use high-quality 90–100 g paper by default, so you don't have to worry about these details.
Write your letter online — printed on quality paper and mailed
Estimate weight before franking
An A4 sheet weighs about five grams at 80 gsm and just over six grams at 100 gsm. Add the envelope and enclosures. Weighing is safer than relying on a fixed sheet count.
Practical choice
- 80 gsm for everyday multi-page letters
- 90–100 gsm for short, representative correspondence
- Check printer approval and total mailing weight
The letter editor handles formatting, printing and dispatch.