A method of forming packages from a web of preformed bags, the method comprising: providing a web of preformed bags, the web of preformed bags including first and second layers (20, 22), first and second side edges (24, 26), first and second side seals proximate the first and second edges (24, 26), a plurality of transverse seals extending between the first and second side edges (24, 26), an opening in the first layer, and a line of separation in the second layer, and first and second cuts in the first and second side seals that are aligned with the opening and the line of separation; and opening a bag of the preformed web of bags along the opening to form a rectangular opening, wherein the step of opening includes tearing the web along the line of separation and breaking the first and second side seals; wherein the first and second cuts are configured to reduce or eliminate a breaking force necessary to break the first and second side seals during the opening step; wherein the first and second cuts prohibit the first and second side edges (24, 26) of an adjacent bag from moving inward during the opening step; wherein the method includes providing first and second pairs of gripping members (220, 230) configured to grip the first layer and third and fourth pairs of gripping members (240, 250) configured to grip the first and second side edges (24, 26); and wherein, during the step of opening, the first and second pairs of gripping members (220, 230) move the first layer away from the second layer, while the third and fourth pairs of gripping members (240, 250) move the side edges (24, 26) toward each other, thereby breaking the first and second side seals and tearing the web along the line of separation to allow formation of the rectangular opening. providing a web of preformed bags, the web of preformed bags including first and second layers (20, 22), first and second side edges (24, 26), first and second side seals proximate the first and second edges (24, 26), a plurality of transverse seals extending between the first and second side edges (24, 26), an opening in the first layer, and a line of separation in the second layer, and first and second cuts in the first and second side seals that are aligned with the opening and the line of separation; and opening a bag of the preformed web of bags along the opening to form a rectangular opening, wherein the step of opening includes tearing the web along the line of separation and breaking the first and second side seals; wherein the first and second cuts are configured to reduce or eliminate a breaking force necessary to break the first and second side seals during the opening step; wherein the first and second cuts prohibit the first and second side edges (24, 26) of an adjacent bag from moving inward during the opening step; wherein the method includes providing first and second pairs of gripping members (220, 230) configured to grip the first layer and third and fourth pairs of gripping members (240, 250) configured to grip the first and second side edges (24, 26); and wherein, during the step of opening, the first and second pairs of gripping members (220, 230) move the first layer away from the second layer, while the third and fourth pairs of gripping members (240, 250) move the side edges (24, 26) toward each other, thereby breaking the first and second side seals and tearing the web along the line of separation to allow formation of the rectangular opening.