In a store, customers pick up a bag, put it on their shoulder and immediately see what fits inside. Online, only dimensions and photos provide that information. Missing or wrong measurements are among the most common causes of “it was smaller than I expected” complaints and returns. This guide explains step by step how to measure a bag and present the dimensions on your product page.
What you need
- A flexible tape measure
- A flat surface
- Paper to stuff inside the bag so it keeps its shape
Before measuring, lightly stuff the bag with paper. This gives it the natural shape the customer will see in use, so the measurements are realistic.
Measuring a bag step by step
- Width: Stand the bag upright on a flat surface. Measure from one end of the base to the other at the widest point. For styles that narrow at the top, stating the base and top width separately is clearer.
- Height: Measure from the base to the highest point of the bag body. Do not include handles or straps.
- Depth (base width): Measure the side of the bag from front to back. Depth is the dimension that most determines how much fits inside.
- Handle drop: For handbags, the distance from the top edge of the body to the highest point of the handle shows whether the bag can be worn on the arm.
- Strap length: Measure the total strap length. For adjustable straps, state the shortest and longest settings separately.
- Internal size and compartments: If there is a laptop or tablet compartment, state its internal dimensions separately.
Sample size table for a product page
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Width | 28 cm |
| Height | 20 cm |
| Depth | 10 cm |
| Handle drop | 12 cm |
| Strap length | Adjustable, 100–125 cm |
The values in the table are examples; enter your own product’s dimensions. Always state the unit (cm) and use the same order on all your products. A consistent layout makes it easier for customers to compare products.
Photos that show scale
Numbers don’t mean the same thing to every customer. To make size tangible:
- Add a photo of the bag on a model’s shoulder or in their hand.
- Put a phone, wallet or A4 folder inside to show what fits.
- For crossbody and shoulder bags, use a full-length photo showing where the strap falls on the body.
For detailed photography tips, see our guide how to photograph bags.
Information to include alongside dimensions
- A “what fits” sentence: Concrete phrases such as “Fits an A4 folder and a 13-inch laptop” or “Suitable for a phone, card holder and keys”.
- Weight: Especially important for backpacks and suitcases.
- Material and closure type: Zip, magnetic or flap closure.
We share a practical template for adding this information to the description in how to write a bag product description.
Key measurements by bag type
- Crossbody bag: strap length and adjustment range
- Handbag: handle drop and depth
- Backpack: laptop compartment internal size and capacity
- Evening bag: internal size and whether a phone fits
- Suitcase: external dimensions including wheels and handle, empty weight
How size information reduces returns
When the product a customer receives matches what they expected, the chance of a return falls. Accurate dimensions, photos that show scale and “what fits” information set that expectation correctly from the start. We look at how return costs affect profitability with an example in our article on calculating dropshipping profit.
Product information at Çanta Bayim
Çanta Bayim product pages include dimensions, material, closure and strap details. With a dealer account you can download product images and use them in your own sales channels. You can start a wholesale order with at least 15 units in total across different styles and colours, and browse products on our wholesale bags page.