Why Chinese Size Charts Trip Up International Buyers

One of the most common reasons for returns and disappointment when using KakoBuy spreadsheets is ordering the wrong size. Chinese manufacturers use different measurement standards, and without proper understanding, you might end up with items that don't fit. This comprehensive guide will teach you exactly how to read Chinese size charts and convert measurements accurately.

Step 1: Understanding Chinese Size Notation Systems

Chinese sizing uses multiple notation systems that can appear confusing at first glance. Here's what you'll encounter in KakoBuy spreadsheets:

• Numeric sizes (160/84A): Height in cm / bust measurement + body type letter
• Letter sizes (S, M, L, XL): Similar to Western but typically runs 1-2 sizes smaller
• Chinese characters: 均码 (one size), 大码 (plus size), 小码 (small size)
• European conversions: Some sellers include EU sizing for convenience

Decoding the 160/84A Format

This Chinese standard format tells you: 160 = recommended height (cm), 84 = chest circumference (cm), A = regular body type. Body type letters include Y (slim), A (regular), B (slightly overweight), and C (overweight).

Step 2: Taking Accurate Body Measurements

Before consulting any size chart, you need precise measurements. Here's how to measure yourself correctly:

Essential Measurements for Tops

1. Chest (胸围): Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape horizontal
2. Shoulder width (肩宽): Measure from shoulder bone to shoulder bone across the back
3. Sleeve length (袖长): From shoulder seam to wrist with arm slightly bent
4. Body length (衣长): From highest shoulder point to desired hem position

Essential Measurements for Bottoms

1. Waist (腰围): Measure at your natural waistline, typically the narrowest point
2. Hip (臀围): Measure around the fullest part of your hips
3. Thigh (大腿围): Measure around the widest part of your thigh
4. Inseam (内长): From crotch to ankle bone on the inside of your leg
5. Outseam (外长): From waist to ankle on the outside of your leg

Step 3: Reading Spreadsheet Size Charts

KakoBuy spreadsheets often include embedded size charts or links to detailed measurement tables. Here's how to interpret them:

Common Chinese Measurement Terms

• 胸围 (xiōng wéi) - Chest/bust circumference
• 腰围 (yāo wéi) - Waist circumference
• 臀围 (tún wéi) - Hip circumference
• 肩宽 (jiān kuān) - Shoulder width
• 衣长 (yī cháng) - Garment length
• 袖长 (xiù cháng) - Sleeve length
• 裤长 (kù cháng) - Pants length

Understanding Flat Measurement vs. Body Measurement

Critical distinction: Chinese size charts often show flat garment measurements, not body measurements. This means you need to double the width measurements (chest, waist) to get the full circumference, or the chart may already show full circumference - check the header carefully for 单边 (single side) or 周长 (full circumference).

Step 4: Applying the Chinese-to-Western Size Conversion

Use this general conversion guide as a starting point, but always verify with actual measurements:

Women's Clothing Conversion

• Chinese S = US XS/0-2
• Chinese M = US S/4-6
• Chinese L = US M/8-10
• Chinese XL = US L/12-14
• Chinese XXL = US XL/16

Men's Clothing Conversion

• Chinese M = US XS/S
• Chinese L = US S/M
• Chinese XL = US M/L
• Chinese XXL = US L/XL
• Chinese XXXL = US XL/XXL

Step 5: Using Translation Tools Effectively

When navigating Chinese size charts in KakoBuy spreadsheets, use these strategies:

1. Screenshot the size chart and use Google Lens for instant translation
2. Copy Chinese text into Google Translate for measurement terms
3. Use browser extensions like Immersive Translate for automatic page translation
4. Keep a reference list of common Chinese measurement vocabulary

Step 6: Accounting for Style and Fit Preferences

Different garment styles require different sizing approaches:

Oversized Items

For intentionally oversized pieces, consider sizing up only one size from Chinese charts rather than your usual Western approach. Chinese oversized cuts already account for a relaxed fit.

Fitted Items

For fitted items like dress shirts or tailored pieces, add 2-4cm to your body measurements for comfort allowance. Check if the chart shows 紧身 (tight fit), 修身 (slim fit), or 宽松 (loose fit).

Step 7: Verifying Measurements Through KakoBuy QC Photos

Always request measurement verification during quality control:

1. Ask your agent to measure specific dimensions with a tape measure
2. Compare QC measurements against the listed size chart
3. Request photos of care labels showing size information
4. Note any discrepancies before authorizing shipment

Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' errors to ensure your orders fit perfectly:

• Assuming Western sizes: Never order your usual Western size without checking measurements
• Ignoring stretch factors: Check fabric composition - stretchy materials may fit differently
• Forgetting shrinkage: Cotton items may shrink 5-10% after washing
• Skipping QC measurements: Always verify before shipping internationally

Building Your Personal Size Reference

Create a personal measurement card to streamline future orders. Include your body measurements, preferred fit additions, and successful size choices from previous KakoBuy orders. This reference will save time and reduce sizing errors across multiple spreadsheet purchases.