ream weight

measurement

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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A ream is a standard measurement for paper, typically consisting of 500 sheets, though historically it could be 480 or 516 sheets. This quantity is also referred to as a "long ream". The term "ream weight" signifies the weight of a specific quantity or batch of paper.12

Basis weight is a fundamental property of paper, indicating its weight per unit area. It is commonly measured in reams, and the term "basis weight" can also refer to the weight of a 500-sheet ream cut to a basic size. Paper is also measured by its caliper (thickness) and density.32

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papermaking
Substance and quantity measurement
The term ream weight commonly signifies the weight of a lot or batch of paper. Since the printing trades use a variety of sheet sizes, there can be numerous ream weights for paper having the same basis weight.
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The term ream weight commonly signifies the weight of a lot or batch of paper. Since the printing trades use a variety of sheet sizes, there can be numerous ream weights for paper having the same basis weight.
Read More