A size run specifies how many pairs you want in each size for a particular style and colour. It turns “200 pairs of shoes” into a production and packing instruction. For a retailer, it also helps prevent a full shelf of slow-moving sizes and shortages in the sizes customers request.
Start with your own sales, not a universal ratio
Use recent sales and stock records for similar styles where you have them. Separate men’s, women’s and school footwear, and distinguish a new-shop opening order from a replenishment order. There is no single size ratio that suits every Indian city, customer group or shoe pattern.
If you have no sales history, discuss a limited initial assortment with the supplier and record demand before committing to a larger repeat order. Confirm the minimum per style and any restrictions on mixed sizes.
Write one row per style and colour
The following is an illustrative planning sheet, not a recommended size mix or DBFootwear stock promise.
| Style | Colour | Size system | Size | Pairs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved sample A | Black | UK | 7 | 20 |
| Approved sample A | Black | UK | 8 | 30 |
| Approved sample A | Black | UK | 9 | 20 |
The rows total 70 pairs. Add the remaining agreed sizes separately. A second colour needs its own rows because it may have a separate minimum quantity or material requirement.
Confirm fit and the size system
Do not mix UK, EU and other size labels without agreement. Ask which system appears on the shoe and box. Size marking alone does not guarantee the same fit across different patterns or lasts, so review the sample and communicate fit feedback before production.
For a uniform order, collect the buyer’s actual size requirements rather than borrowing a retail-shop ratio. Record who approves the final list and when changes must stop.
Make packing and checking easier
Send the size-run sheet with the purchase order and ask for a corresponding packing list. On receipt, compare style, colour and sizes before distributing cartons to shops or departments. Record shortages or discrepancies with the shipment reference so they can be investigated clearly.
Use sell-through to plan the next order
Track pairs sold and pairs remaining by style, colour and size. A size that sold quickly may need replenishment, while a popular style with unsold extreme sizes may need a different mix. Discuss whether repeat-order minimums allow that adjustment.
For men’s wholesale footwear, women’s footwear enquiries or school shoes, send your proposed quantity and size run to DBFootwear. We will confirm the available order options. Use the manufacturing specification checklist when your order also includes custom materials or branding.