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TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

1.Introduction

For brands and travelers alike, understanding TSA approved quart size bag dimensions isn’t just a matter of compliance — it’s the intersection of safety, engineering, and consumer trust. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sets strict standards that influence how global manufacturers design, test, and deliver transparent toiletry bags for air travel.

This comprehensive guide is crafted for OEM and ODM manufacturers, procurement teams, and travel accessory brands that want to stay compliant while achieving market differentiation.

Compliance Note: Non-compliant toiletry bags can result in shipment rejections, customs delays, and potential liability if marketed as “TSA-approved” without verifiable specifications.

2.Understanding the TSA 3-1-1 Rule

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

2.1 Origin and Purpose

The TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule originated after the 2006 transatlantic liquid bomb plot, which led to international restrictions on liquid volumes allowed in carry-on luggage. “3-1-1” refers to:

  • 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less per container
  • 1 quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag
  • 1 bag per passenger

Its goal is to limit the total volume of potentially hazardous substances passengers can bring aboard.

2.2 Compliance Requirements

Manufacturers designing TSA-approved quart size bags must meet these material and dimensional criteria:

  • Transparency: Fully clear sides and seams
  • Resealability: Zip-lock, slider, or double-seal closures
  • Capacity: Approx. 1 quart = 32 fl oz ≈ 946 mL
  • Dimensions: Typically 7 × 8 in (17.8 × 20.3 cm)

2.3 Why It Matters to Manufacturers

For OEMs, these rules define both product geometry and packaging constraints.
Designing around TSA guidelines ensures global usability — from American Airlines to British Airways, compliant products are accepted across most airports.

Design Tip: Keep the total volume below 1 L (946 mL) including the closure gusset. Excessive seam depth can cause the bag to exceed TSA’s perceived quart capacity.

3.Quart Size Bag Dimensions & Design Standards

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

3.1 Official Quart Conversion

MeasurementImperialMetric
1 Quart32 fl oz946 mL
3.4 oz limit100 mL100 mL
Typical Bag7 × 8 in17.8 × 20.3 cm

While TSA doesn’t certify individual products, staying within these figures ensures the bag qualifies as a “TSA-approved quart size bag.”

3.2 Engineering Considerations

  • Thickness: 0.3 – 0.5 mm (optimum balance of flexibility and strength)
  • Sealing Method: Heat-sealing or RF-welding to prevent leaks
  • Closure Type: Slider zippers, double-press seals, or hook-loop hybrid systems
  • Edge Treatment: Rounded corners to prevent puncture or tearing

Compliance Note: Avoid opaque brand panels larger than 15 % of surface area; TSA officers may reject bags that obstruct visibility.

3.3 Dimensional Tolerances

Different airlines interpret TSA compliance flexibly.
For instance:

  • American Airlines: accepts up to 8 × 8 in
  • Delta & United: recommend 6 × 9 in
  • EU airports: follow 20 × 20 cm strict rule

Thus, designing within 17 × 19 cm ensures both US and EU compatibility.

4.Material Science Behind TSA-Approved Bags (PEVA, TPU, PVC)

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

4.1 Overview of Common Materials

MaterialTransparencyDurabilityTemperature ResistanceEco ProfileCost Level
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)ExcellentHigh−10 °C – 70 °CModerate (contains chlorine)
PEVA (Polyethylene-Vinyl Acetate)ExcellentMedium−15 °C – 80 °CGood (chlorine-free)★★
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)Crystal ClearExcellent−30 °C – 90 °CExcellent (biodegradable options)★★★

4.2 Selecting the Right Material

  • PVC Bags: Economical, ideal for mass retail, but may yellow over time.
  • PEVA Bags: Soft, flexible, and free of phthalates — a preferred option for eco-conscious brands.
  • TPU Bags: Premium choice offering resilience, cold-crack resistance, and long-term clarity.

Material Insight:
FY recommends TPU for high-end cosmetic brands seeking long-lasting clarity and PEVA for brands prioritizing environmental positioning.

4.3 Environmental Compliance

All exported toiletry bags should meet:

  • REACH / RoHS (EU)
  • CPSIA / Prop 65 (US)
  • EN 71-3 / GB 4806 (chemical migration limits)

Failure to comply can lead to customs holds or forced recalls — especially when claiming “eco-friendly TSA-approved quart size bag”.

Compliance Note: FY’s production lines are audited under BSCI and ISO 9001, ensuring every shipment passes AQL 2.5/4.0 inspections.

5.OEM & ODM Manufacturing Workflow

5.1 Engineering and Prototyping

For OEM/ODM toiletry bag manufacturers, the process begins with detailed CAD dimensional drafting.
Engineers simulate bag volume within 946 mL limits while optimizing structural rigidity.

Typical workflow:

  1. Design Analysis: Confirm quart capacity, zipper tension, and corner radius.
  2. Material Sourcing: Select PVC/PEVA/TPU based on client branding.
  3. Sampling: Die-cut + RF weld prototypes.
  4. Performance Testing: Leak test, transparency check, tensile test (≥10 N).
  5. Mass Production: Batch QA under ISO 9001 standards.

Design Tip: Always verify the “filled geometry” — bags that appear smaller when empty may exceed 1 L when fully expanded, violating TSA quart-size definitions.

5.2 Quality Assurance Protocols

Test TypeStandardFY Reference
TransparencyASTM D1003≥ 85 %
Seal StrengthASTM F88≥ 10 N
Odor / VOCISO 16000Non-detectable
Cold CrackASTM D2136−25 °C
Aging TestFY Lab #A-TPU-2025100 hr @ 60 °C

FY’s QC labs employ AQL 2.5/4.0, with 100 % inspection on critical functions (zip seal integrity, dimension tolerance, and clarity).

Compliance Note: Always include “Inspection Certificate” with shipment; many US importers now require documentation verifying quart-size compliance.

5.3 Packaging and Labeling for Export

Proper labeling supports smooth customs clearance:

  • TSA Approved Quart Size Bag” (with caution note)
  • Material composition (PVC/TPU/PEVA)
  • Country of origin (“Made in China”)
  • Barcode & inner polybag for retail

Design Tip: For Amazon FBA, keep outer carton under 25 kg and label with FNSKU; FY can print & apply per client request.

6.Global Liquid Regulations Comparison

6.1 Major International Standards

RegionLimit per ContainerBag VolumeRemarks
USA (TSA)3.4 oz / 100 mL1 quart (≈946 mL)“3-1-1 Rule”
EU / UK100 mL1 LSimilar to TSA
Canada (CATSA)100 mL1 LEnforced strictly
Australia / NZ100 mL1 LMust fit flat bag
Japan / Korea100 mL1 LOften require resealable zip
China (CAAC)100 mL1 LDomestic adoption of TSA rule

6.2 Airport Security Practices

Although rules are similar, interpretation varies:

  • EU airports inspect quart bags more strictly under transparent lighting.
  • Some Asia-Pacific airports request separate liquid inspection trays.
  • US airports often allow flexibility if bags remain flat and clear.

Compliance Note: Always design packaging inserts in English + bilingual labels for EU/Asia to minimize misunderstanding at customs or security gates.

6.3 Beyond TSA: The Future of Liquid Restrictions

The EU has begun trialing CT-scanner systems allowing up to 2 L liquids by 2026.
FY are preparing “Next-Gen Clear Bag Designs” with enhanced RFID traceability for secure identification.

7.Packing Strategy & Airline Compatibility

7.1 Smart Packing for Travelers

Effective packing not only ensures compliance but also demonstrates user-centric product design.

ItemRecommended SizeMaterialTip
Shampoo / Conditioner≤ 3 oz (100 mL)PE BottleKeep upright
Lotion / Cream≤ 3 ozSoft TubeAvoid excess air
ToothpasteTravel sizeLaminated TubeSeal tightly
Perfume / Spray≤ 3 ozGlass / PlasticUse atomizer
Makeup Remover≤ 3 ozDrop BottleWrap in film

Design Tip: Add internal gusset or divider to stabilize bottles during inspection handling.

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

7.2 Airline Carry-On Requirements

AirlineCarry-On LimitNotes
American Airlines22 × 14 × 9 inLiquids follow TSA 3-1-1
Delta Air Lines22 × 14 × 9 inSame standard
British Airways56 × 45 × 25 cmEU 1 L rule
Air France / KLM55 × 35 × 25 cmEU standard
ANA / JAL55 × 40 × 25 cmStrict visual inspection

Compliance Note: Design sample photos should clearly show dimensions on packaging artwork to reassure airline compliance officers.

8.FY OEM/ODM Insight

 - TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions – The Ultimate Professional Guide for OEM & Travel Brands-FY Custom Bag Manufacturer

FY Bag Custom Factory has over 15 years of manufacturing expertise in custom toiletry bags, clear pouches, and travel kits.
Our factory integrates R&D + production + QC + export—ensuring that every TSA approved quart size bag meets global standards.

8.1 Manufacturing Capabilities

  • Monthly Output: 300 000 pcs
  • Facilities: RF heat-sealing, ultrasonic welding, precision cutting
  • Certifications: BSCI, ISO 9001, CPSIA, REACH, Prop 65
  • Clients: Retail brands, travel accessory labels, airline suppliers

Material Insight: FY supports sustainable transitions—introducing bio-based TPU and recycled PEVA programs by 2026.

8.2 Collaboration Model

  • OEM: We produce to your existing design specs.
  • ODM: We develop new designs based on your concept, provide 3D mockups and prototypes.
  • Private Label: Logo printing, custom packaging, barcode management.

Design Tip: FY’s in-house design team can adjust visual branding placement (<15 % opaque area) to maintain TSA transparency compliance.

9.FAQ

Q1. Are all clear toiletry bags TSA-approved?

Not exactly. Only those meeting size (~1 quart), transparency, and resealability standards will pass checkpoints.

Q2. Can I use frosted or tinted clear bags?

Light tinting is often accepted, but opaque or patterned bags may be rejected.

Q3. How long do TPU bags last?

Typically 3–5 years with proper care; TPU resists cracking and discoloration.

Q4. What’s the safest printing method for TSA bags?

Use silk-screen or UV printing limited to <15 % coverage; FY ensures durability and ink compliance.

Q5. Can FY assist with Amazon FBA labeling?

Yes. FY provides barcode printing, carton labeling, and shipment consolidation.