What Is a Size Chart and Why It Matters in E-commerce
Discover why size charts are the secret weapon for reducing returns, building customer trust, and boosting your online store's conversion rates.
Table of Contents
What Is a Size Chart?
A size chart is a reference table that displays garment measurements for each available size. It's an essential tool for e-commerce stores selling clothing and apparel, helping customers understand exactly how a garment will fit before they purchase.
Unlike shopping in a physical store where customers can try items on, online shoppers rely entirely on size charts to make informed decisions. A well-designed size chart bridges this gap by providing accurate measurements that customers can compare to their own body or existing clothing.
Why Size Charts Matter for E-commerce
Size charts aren't just helpful—they're essential for e-commerce success. Here's why:
1. Reduce Returns and Save Money
Returns are expensive. Each returned item costs an average of $10-20 in shipping and processing. With accurate size charts, you can reduce return rates by up to 35%, directly improving your bottom line.
2. Build Customer Trust
When customers see detailed size information, they feel more confident making a purchase. This trust translates into higher conversion rates and repeat customers.
3. Improve Customer Experience
Nobody likes receiving clothes that don't fit. By helping customers choose the right size the first time, you create a positive shopping experience that leads to better reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.
4. Reduce Customer Service Inquiries
"What size should I order?" is one of the most common questions e-commerce stores receive. A comprehensive size chart answers this question before it's asked.
📊 Key Statistics
- 52% of online clothing returns are due to wrong sizing
- 35% reduction in returns with accurate size charts
- 28% increase in conversions when size charts are present
The Return Rate Problem
The fashion e-commerce industry faces a massive challenge: return rates averaging 20-30%. Wrong size is the #1 reason customers return clothing items.
Consider the true cost of a return:
- Return shipping costs
- Processing and restocking labor
- Potential damage or unsellable items
- Lost customer lifetime value
- Environmental impact
A professional size chart is your first line of defense against these costly returns.
What to Include in a Size Chart
An effective size chart should include:
Essential Measurements
- Chest/Bust Width: Measured across the chest, usually 1" below the armhole
- Body Length: From highest point of shoulder (HPS) to hem
- Shoulder Width: Seam to seam across the back
Additional Measurements (Recommended)
- Sleeve length
- Waist width
- Hip width (for dresses/pants)
- Inseam (for pants)
Important Details
- Measurement unit: Clearly state cm or inches
- Tolerance: Include ± tolerance (usually ±0.5-1cm)
- How to measure: Brief instructions for customers
How to Create a Size Chart
Creating a size chart used to be time-consuming and required measuring each garment manually. Today, tools like Size Chart Shop make it easy:
Quick Method: Use Size Chart Maker
- 1 Upload your product image
- 2 Select your sizing standard (US, UK, EU, Asian)
- 3 Download your professional size chart
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a size chart?
A size chart is a table that displays garment measurements for each available size. It typically includes measurements like chest, waist, hip, and length, helping customers choose the right size when shopping online.
Why do I need a size chart for my online store?
Size charts are essential for e-commerce because customers can't try on items before purchasing. They help reduce returns by up to 35%, build customer trust, increase conversion rates, and improve overall customer satisfaction.
How do size charts reduce returns?
Size charts reduce returns by helping customers choose the correct size before purchasing. Studies show that 52% of online clothing returns are due to wrong sizing. Accurate size charts eliminate this guesswork.
What measurements should a size chart include?
A basic size chart should include chest/bust width, body length, and shoulder width. More detailed charts can include sleeve length, waist width, hip width, and inseam for pants. Include tolerance ranges (±) for accuracy.
Conclusion
Size charts are no longer optional for e-commerce clothing stores—they're essential. By providing accurate sizing information, you'll reduce returns, build customer trust, and ultimately increase your sales and profitability.
Ready to create professional size charts for your store? Try Size Chart Maker free and generate accurate size charts in seconds.
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