Size Conversion Guide: Pitfalls for US Users

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US - Chinese size conversion

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Size Conversion Guide: Pitfalls for US Users

BargainHacker Editorial Office

2025-04-19

Navigating size conversions when shopping on Chinese e-commerce platforms can be tricky for US users. This guide aims to simplify the process across clothing, footwear, and electronics, provide practical tips on finding size information, and offer a real-life case for hassle-free returns.

1. Clothing Size Conversion (US to Chinese)

Conversion Chart

US Size	Chinese Size	Bust (cm)	Waist (cm)
XS	155/76A	80 - 84	60 - 64
S	160/80A	84 - 88	64 - 68
M	165/84A	88 - 92	68 - 72
L	170/88A	92 - 96	72 - 76
XL	175/92A	96 - 100	76 - 80

Conversion Formulas

Bust: $B u s t_{c m} = B u s t_{in} \times 2.54$
Waist: $Wai s t_{c m} = Wai s t_{in} \times 2.54$

For example, if your US bust size is 34 inches, the Chinese bust size in centimeters would be

34 \times 2.54 = 86.36

cm, which corresponds to a Chinese size S.

2. Footwear Size Conversion (US Men’s to Chinese)

Conversion Chart

US Men’s Size	Chinese Size
6	38
7	39
8	40
9	42
10	43
11	44
12	46

3. Electronics: Plug and Voltage Compatibility

Plug Types

US Standard: NEMA 1 - 15 (two flat parallel pins)
China Standard: C (two round pins) or A (similar to US but with grounding option)

Voltage Compatibility

US: 110 - 120V, 60Hz
China: 220V, 50Hz

When purchasing electronics, check the product description for “dual - voltage” support (100 - 240V). If not, you’ll need a voltage converter to use the device safely in the US.

Practical Tips: Finding Size Guides

On Taobao

Locate the Size Guide on Product Pages:

Scroll down the product description page until you see a section labeled “Size Information” or “Size Chart.” It’s usually accompanied by images or tables.

Use the Taobao “Size Assistant” Plugin:

Install the plugin from the official Taobao app store.

When viewing a product, click the “Size Assistant” icon (usually located near the “Add to Cart” button).

Enter your US size measurements, and the plugin will automatically suggest the corresponding Chinese size.

Case Study: Free Return for Incorrect Shoe Size

Situation: User A, a US shopper, ordered a pair of shoes in Chinese size 38 without checking the conversion chart. The shoes turned out to be too small, as Chinese size 38 corresponds to US men’s size 6, while User A’s correct size is US men’s size 7.

Steps to Request a Free Return:

Contact the Seller: Go to your order details page on Taobao and click “Contact Seller.” Explain the size issue politely and attach evidence (e.g., size chart screenshots).

Check the Return Policy: Ensure the seller offers free returns for size - related issues. Most reputable sellers do, especially within 7 days of receipt.

Arrange Return Shipping: If the seller approves the return, they will provide a shipping label or instructions. Some sellers may reimburse shipping costs once the item is returned in its original condition.

Track the Return: Use the provided tracking number to monitor the shipping progress. Once the seller receives the item, they will process the refund, which usually takes 3 - 5 business days.

By following this guide, US users can avoid common sizing pitfalls, make informed purchases, and handle returns smoothly on Chinese e-commerce platforms.