Within the framework of nonrelativistic quantum chromodynamics, we study the production of C = + charmonium states H in e + e − → γ + H at BESIII with H = η c (nS) (n=1, 2, 3, and 4), χ cJ (nP) (n=1, 2, and 3), and 1 D 2 (nD) (n=1 and 2). The radiative and relativistic corrections are calculated to next-to-leading order for S and P wave states. We then argue that the search for C = + XY Z states such as X(3872), X(3940), X(4160), and X(4350) in e + e − → γ + H at BESIII may help clarify the nature of these states. BESIII can search for XY Z states through two body process e + e − → γH, where H decay to J/ψπ + π − , J/ψφ, or DD. This result may be useful in identifying the nature of C = + XY Z states. For completeness, the production of C = + charmonium in e + e − → γ + H at B factories is also discussed.