Let's be honest: taking measurements is part of tailoring, but should it always be free? 

Imagine a customer walks into your shop, asks you to take their measurements, spends 20–30 minutes with you, and then leaves without placing an order.

Or someone asks you to take their measurements today and promises to bring their fabric next week. Sometimes, they never return!

This raises an important question: Should tailors charge customers for taking measurements?

Taking accurate measurements requires time, skill, and experience. A small mistake can affect the entire outfit, so it's not something to take lightly.

Practical Measurement Pricing Examples

There is no fixed price for taking measurements. Your charges may depend on your location, experience, time, and the type of service you provide.

Here are some sample prices for discussion, not official market rates:

1. Basic body measurements: ₦1,000–₦2,000
2. Detailed measurements for a full outfit: ₦2,000–₦3,000
3. Measurements for multiple outfits: ₦3,000–₦5,000
4. Home or office measurement visit: ₦5,000–₦10,000+
5. Special or complex measurement service: ₦3,000–₦5,000

For example, if you charge ₦2,000 for measurements and the customer later places a sewing order, you could deduct the ₦2,000 from the sewing fee. Alternatively, you could make measurements free for confirmed sewing orders.

The important thing is to explain your pricing policy before taking measurements.

What Should Tailors Consider When Charging?

• Time: How long does it take to measure a customer properly?
• Experience: Your knowledge and skill have value.
• Location: Do you measure customers at your shop or travel to their homes?
• Type of outfit: Simple outfits may require fewer measurements than complicated designs.
• Customer relationship: Do you charge new customers but offer free measurements to regular customers?
• Sewing orders: Should measurement fees be included in the cost of sewing?

Let's Talk About Tailoring in Nigeria!

We all know that customers have different expectations. Some believe measurements should be free, while others understand that a tailor's time and expertise deserve payment.

Let's hear different opinions.

• Do you charge customers for taking measurements?
• How much do you charge for measurements in your area?
• Should measurement fees be deducted when a customer eventually places an order?
• Do you charge extra for home or office measurements?
• Should measurements be free for regular customers?
• What do you do when someone takes measurements but never returns?

Over to You!

Imagine a customer walks into your shop today and asks you to take their measurements without placing a sewing order. How much would you charge?

Share your actual prices, location, and experience. If you offer free measurements, tell us why.

Let's exchange ideas about fair pricing, respect for our skills, and how tailors can earn from every service they provide.

Remember: Your time, knowledge, and professional skills have value!