The volume of a garbage bag

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Question from Steve:

I have often wondered how a garbage bags is determined in gallons -
many different manufactures of these type bags often have different sizes
stating they are a (for example) a 55 gallon bag -
also I see some that show a range (20-30 gallon)
yet is a specific size (16 x 14 x39 or a 30 x 36)
I have searched and search but have been unable to find a formula

Looking forward to your answer - Thanks

Steve,

I doubt if there is one; I would expect that this is determined by somebody filling the bag with some sort of simulated garbage [plastic blocks say] to what seems like a reasonable level, then measuring the total volume with (say) a five-gallon bucket. Where there is a range, I would assume the low end is for heavy or "poky" contents, the high end for dry leaves, wastepaper, etc.

-RD

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