How can I ask for a measurement that is missing from a secondhand listing?
Quick answer
Name the single measurement missing from the listing, specify the units and exactly where to measure between, then ask politely whether the seller can check it. For example: “Hi, could you measure the width of the [item] in inches, from the outside edge on the left to the outside edge on the right? Thanks!” Use endpoints that match the dimension you need.
The question, the details, the next step.
A secondhand listing gives several details, but it leaves out one dimension I need to know. How do I ask without sending a vague “What are the measurements?” message?
Ask for just the missing dimension by name. Include the units and the two endpoints, or another clear description of where the measurement starts and ends.
A useful pattern is: “Hi, could you measure the [dimension] of the [item] in [units], from [starting point] to [ending point]? Thanks!”
For example, if the missing detail is the overall width of a chair, you could write: “Hi, could you measure the overall width of the chair in inches, from the outside edge on the left to the outside edge on the right? Thanks!” Replace the item and endpoints with the ones that match the measurement you need.
How specific should I be about the endpoints? The listing says “width,” but I am not sure what the seller might count as the edges.
Describe the endpoints in ordinary language rather than relying on a label such as “width.” If you mean the full outside-to-outside span, say so. If you mean a particular section, name that section and its boundaries. The right endpoints depend on the item and the dimension you want, so do not assume that “width” means the same thing in every listing.
For a hypothetical table, you might ask: “Could you measure the tabletop from its left outside edge to its right outside edge?” If the listing labels a part in a photo, you can refer to it, but add the endpoints if they could still be unclear.
Should I include both inches and centimetres, or is one unit enough? I want to make the request easy to answer.
Usually, name one unit you can use and ask for the measurement in that unit. If either unit works for you, say so explicitly: “Inches or centimetres is fine; please let me know which you used.”
Avoid asking only “How big is it?” or “Can you send dimensions?” Ask for the specific measurement, in a stated unit, between stated endpoints. You can add “If you’re able to measure it” to keep the request courteous and leave room for the seller to decline.
Can you give me a short message I can copy and adapt, including what to do if I do not know the technical name for the dimension?
Use a plain description of the part and endpoints if you do not know a technical term. Keep the message focused on one measurement:
“Hi, I’m interested in the [item]. If you’re able to measure it, could you tell me the distance from [starting point] to [ending point] in [inches/centimetres]? I mean the [plain-language description of the part, if helpful]. Thanks!”
For example, for a full width across a named part: “Hi, I’m interested in the [item]. If you’re able to measure it, could you tell me the distance from the outside edge on the left to the outside edge on the right, in inches? I mean the full width across the [named part]. Thanks!” Replace the bracketed phrases and check that the part and endpoints describe the measurement you want. If you cannot identify the endpoints clearly, describe the part and ask what measurement the seller can provide rather than guessing.
A practical checklist
Name the one missing dimension you want.
Identify the item or specific part to measure.
State one preferred unit, or clearly say which units you will accept.
Describe where the measurement starts and ends.
Make a polite request that lets the seller say if they cannot measure it.
A few more useful answers
What if I do not know the name of the measurement?
Describe the part and the two points you want measured in everyday language. If you are unsure where those points should be, explain what you mean and ask what the seller can measure rather than guessing at a technical term.
Is it okay to ask for a photo of the measurement?
You can ask, but keep the requested dimension clear and specify the unit and endpoints in the message. A photo is optional; the key request is for the particular measurement you need.
What if the seller cannot provide the measurement?
Thank them for checking and accept that they may not be able to measure it. A clear request can clarify what you need, but it cannot guarantee the seller will be able to answer.