Picking a bag size sounds simple until the first customer’s purchase doesn’t fit. A bag that is too small tears or looks crammed; a bag that is too big wastes fabric and money. Here is how to get it right.
How bag sizes are measured
Bag sizes are given in inches as width × height. A 14×16 bag is 14 inches wide and 16 inches tall. Bags with a gusset or base add a third number for depth: a 14×12×5 box bag is 14 inches wide, 12 inches tall and 5 inches deep.
Step 1: Measure your largest everyday product
Take the biggest item (or the biggest typical purchase) your customers carry. Measure it as it will go into the bag: a folded garment, a stack of boxes or a full grocery load. Then add about 1–2 inches to the width and height so it slides in easily.
On a D-cut bag, remember that the handle hole sits at the top, so the usable height is a little less than the bag’s full height.
Common sizes and what fits
- 8×10 or 10×12 in D-cut: medicines, mobile accessories, cosmetics, jewellery.
- 12×14 in D-cut: one folded garment or a few small purchases.
- 14×16 in D-cut or loop handle: 2–3 piece suits, kurtas, unstitched fabric.
- 16×18 in D-cut or loop handle: larger garments and multiple items.
- 12×16 to 18×22 in W-cut: groceries and mixed shopping; side gussets add room.
- 12×10×4 to 16×14×6 in box bag: cake, mithai and shoe boxes.
- Small, medium and large storage bags: clothes, quilts and bedding.
Sizes by type of business
- Boutiques and clothing brands: D-cut or loop handle, 12×14 to 16×18 in.
- Supermarkets and grocery stores: W-cut, 12×16 to 18×22 in.
- Pharmacies: D-cut, 8×10 to 12×14 in.
- Restaurants and bakeries: box bags sized to your box, W-cut for takeaway.
- Online stores: a size close to your product, so it fits the courier packet.
Common sizing mistakes
- Ordering one size for everything. Two sizes (small and large) usually cover most shops.
- Forgetting depth for boxes. A flat bag won’t hold a deep box neatly; use a box bag.
- Choosing a bigger size “to be safe”. It costs more per piece and looks loose.
- Not testing first. Ask for a sample and try it with your real products.
Still unsure? Use our Bag Finder, or send us a photo of your product on WhatsApp and we’ll suggest a size. When you’re ready, get a quote.
