BULK BAG ORDERS · SPECIFICATION WORKSHEET
Tote Bag Measurement Worksheet: Body, Gusset and Handle Drop
A bag name or product photo rarely defines a finished size. Use this worksheet to describe what you measured, where you measured it and what the buyer needs the bag to hold—then confirm the same points on the approved sample.
This guide is for importers, brand teams and promotional-product buyers preparing a custom-bag RFQ. It does not define a universal tote size or factory tolerance. Its purpose is to make the buyer’s reference, target dimensions and measurement method explicit before suppliers quote.
Separate the target from the reference
First decide whether you are specifying a target size or asking a supplier to reproduce a reference bag. If you have a physical sample, record its measurements and label them “reference only” unless you want those measurements used as the finished target. If the bag must fit a product or document, include that item’s dimensions and orientation as well.
Use one unit system throughout the request. A photo with a ruler can help show the point being measured, but do not rely on the image alone: write the value, unit and measurement points beside it.
Buyer worksheet: record each measurement consistently
| Specification field | What to record | Buyer check |
|---|---|---|
| Reference / target | [physical sample, drawing, product-fit target, or supplier proposal] | Say whether the figure is a target or reference only |
| Body width | [value + unit; left-to-right point on the finished bag] | State whether measured flat, at the opening or at the base |
| Body height | [value + unit; bottom seam to top edge] | State whether handles are excluded |
| Side / bottom depth | [value + unit; identify side gusset, bottom gusset or boxed base] | Mark the intended construction on a photo or sketch |
| Handle | [handle type; length or drop; width if relevant] | Mark the start/end points and carrying orientation |
| Fit requirement | [item dimensions, opening clearance and orientation] | Check the item can enter and sit as intended |
| Measurement basis | [flat / filled / laid on table; sample ID; date; measured by] | Use the same method when comparing the approved sample |
| Acceptance range | [buyer and supplier to agree; do not assume a default] | Confirm method and range in the written specification |
Clarify gusset and handle terminology
“Gusset” may refer to a side panel, a bottom panel or a boxed base in different product conversations. Identify the exact panel and finished dimension you need instead of sending one unexplained depth number. A quick sketch with arrows is often clearer than relying on the term alone.
Handle length and handle drop are not interchangeable descriptions. If shoulder carry matters, describe the clearance from the bag opening to the handle at the intended carry position, and identify the points you want measured. Ask the supplier to state its proposed measurement method on the sample or specification drawing.
Check the approved sample against the worksheet
- Confirm the sample matches the requested style, material, colour and construction before recording dimensions.
- Place it in the agreed measurement position and use the same unit and points listed in the RFQ.
- Record each result next to the target; do not silently replace the target with the sample measurement.
- Check the opening, intended contents, gusset/base shape and handle clearance in actual use.
- Write down any agreed adjustment and ask the supplier to confirm the revised specification before bulk production.
Measurement variation can depend on material, construction and method. Agree any acceptance range with the supplier for the actual order rather than applying a generic tolerance from another bag or project.
Copy-ready measurement request
Bag style / SKU: [reference]
Purpose and contents: [item, dimensions and orientation]
Reference or target: [sample / drawing / target]
Body width × height: [values + unit; measurement points]
Side gusset / bottom depth: [value + unit; construction sketch attached]
Handle: [type; length or drop; reference points]
Measurement basis: [flat / filled / other; sample ID]
Acceptance range: [to be agreed in writing]
Please confirm: measurement method and the finished dimensions shown on the sample/specification.
For the dimensions currently offered on cotton and canvas totes, see the cotton tote product size information. If your brief is for a promotional non-woven style, review the non-woven bag range as well. If you are still assembling the supplier brief, use the custom bag RFQ checklist, or send the finished size, material and quantity through the custom order request.