Measure handle drop vertically from the top edge of the bag to the underside of the handle at its highest point. Opening width should be measured along the usable top opening rather than only the widest body panel. Confirm whether the tote is intended for hand carry, shoulder carry or both, and verify the result on the physical sample.
A top zipper is practical when the opening can remain wide enough for loading and the zipper tape can be supported by the top-edge construction. Very soft fabrics, narrow openings, thick contents or handles positioned too close to the zipper path may affect access. The opening, lining and zipper ends should be checked together during sampling.
Specify the finished size, thickness, stiffness, edge treatment and whether the board is loose, covered or placed inside a dedicated sleeve. It should fit the finished base without forcing the side seams outward. If the bag must fold flat, confirm how the board will be removed, packed and replaced.
Provide vector artwork when possible, together with the final print size, color references, placement dimensions and required orientation. For edge-to-edge or all-over graphics, include bleed and confirm how seams, gussets and handle positions interrupt the design. A strike-off or printed panel sample should be reviewed before production.
Fiber type, weave, surface texture, absorbency, dye process and ink system affect how color is reflected. A Pantone reference is useful, but it cannot remove every material difference. Review the actual fabric, webbing and printed result together under consistent lighting and define the acceptable range before approval.
Pre-washing is not automatically required. It may be considered when a softer hand feel, pre-shrunk appearance or washed finish is part of the specification. Washing can change size, color, texture, printing behavior and cost, so the material treatment and acceptable variation should be tested and approved rather than assumed.
The folding plan should avoid placing hard creases across printed areas, coated surfaces, foam or structured seams. Carton size, unit quantity, tissue or inserts and the time the bags remain compressed all affect the result. If appearance after unpacking is important, review a packed sample and carton arrangement before final approval.
Review external dimensions, usable opening, handle drop, carrying comfort, gusset depth, base shape, pocket access, closure function, material hand feel, logo size and position, stitching, labels and the proposed packing method. Consolidate comments into one written approval record so the production reference is clear.