Terminology

Glossary of Envelope Terminology

Here are some of the most widely used terms in the envelope industry. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with these terms so that you may better understand their connection with envelopes.

BARONIAL:

A style of envelope that has a large pointed seal flap. This style Envelope is usually close to being square; however, the flap and paper used are the most distingusihing features. The most common present usage is for greeting cards or social stationary. The name Baronial is derived from "Baron" which signifies a high social standing.

BUSINESS REPLY or RETURN ENVELOPE:

These two envelopes can be any style or size. The distinct difference between them is "who pays the postage?" A business REPLY is referred to as the envelope that has a pre-printed First-Class Permit and return address on it and the original sender pays for its return. The Business RETURN has a pre-printed return address but the individual returning the envelope must apply postage. The most commonly used envelopes for either purpose are the commerical style 6 1/4, 6 3/4, or 9. Another frequently used-style is the remittance flap (Collection) style.

CATALOG:

All envelopes with the "open" end flap are called catalog.

CENTER SEAM:

Is the permanent seam that is located approximately in the center of the envelope running from the bottom fold and seam up through the envelope and terminates at the throat.

COMMERCIAL STYLE:

These are the most common business style envelopes. They are "open side" of diagonal or side seam construction. Applies to a wide range of sizes from 6 1/4 through 14... Both regulars and window envelopes.

CUT OUT:

The term applied to an envelope having a panel or panels cut out of the face, back or both and not having a covering over the panels.

DIAGONAL SEAM:

A seam running diagonally from the bottom fold and corner upward toward the throat of the envelope.

FLAPS EXTENDED:

This term is used to describe a condition of leaving the seal flaps in a vertical position (not folded down).

FLAPS FOLDED DOWN:

A term supplied to envelopes when their flaps are folded down against the back of the envelope. Most boxes are packed in this fashion

LATEX SEAL:

It is self sealing adhesive that requires NO moisture. Two gum surfaces are required to create a bond when they are brought together.

OPEN END:

A style of envelope on which the opening is on the shorter side. All open end envelopes are called catalog or coin envelopes.

OPEN SIDE:

A style of envelope on which the opening is on the longer side. All commercials are open side.

REGULAR:

A style of commercial, Official or Bankers Flap envelope which does NOT have a window panel cut in it.

REMITTANCE:

A large style seal flap of approximately the same size and shape of the envelope itself.