Why Do Bag Dimensions Differ Between Listings?

Probably both are right, because they measure different things. There is no single convention for handbag dimensions. Some listings call the front-to-back measurement “width”, some include the handles in the height, and some measure from corner to corner. The numbers only become comparable once you know the method behind them.

Examples of different conventions

The resale marketplace Rebag publishes its handbag terms. It defines “length” as the length of the base across the front, “width” as the depth of the bag measured from the side, and “height” as the distance from the base to the top edge. It notes that it measures most bags from corner to corner for length and width, and from the centre front for height. Its glossary also separates strap length (end to end when laid flat) from strap drop and handle drop, which are measured from the underside of the extended strap or handle to the top edge of the bag.

A made-to-order leather maker, Danielle Royal, uses different words for a similar job. Its guide measures width across the front panel, height from the top edge to the base excluding handles, and depth across the bottom from front to back. It defines strap drop as the vertical distance from the top edge of the opening to the highest point of the strap. Its recommended drops by height are that maker’s own suggestions, not a general standard.

So a seller using Rebag’s words and a seller using the second set could describe the same bag with “width” meaning two different measurements.

How to compare fairly

1. Find out what each listing means by length, width, depth and height. Look for a “how we measure” note or a diagram.
2. Match three body measurements: front width, height excluding handles, and depth at the base.
3. Separate handle drop, strap drop and strap length. For adjustable straps, record the shortest and longest setting.
4. Convert units carefully: 1 inch is 2.54 cm. Small differences can come from rounding.
5. Compare with a bag you own: measure it the same way, and cut a paper or card template to the listed size to see whether your daily items fit.
6. If numbers disagree by a lot and no method is given, ask the seller how they measured.

Where this answer stops

The two examples show that conventions differ, not how every retailer measures. Soft bags change size when filled and structured bags do not, so a flat measurement does not give you capacity. berabags has not measured any bag.