How to Calculate Linear Feet

What is a linear foot, and how is the measurement used?  

A linear foot is a 12-inch or 30.48-cm straight measurement in length. 

It’s the same size whether you’re measuring space in a U-Pack moving trailer or working on a home improvement project. You might use linear foot measurements for baseboards, crown molding or fencing. Some flooring, like sheet linoleum, can also sold by the linear foot, so it’s a handy measurement for many applications.  

Keep reading to learn how to measure linear feet and why it’s important when moving with U-Pack®. 

How to measure linear feet  

Calculating linear feet is one of the most straightforward measurements. There’s no complicated math involved! Just grab a tape measure (or a ruler) to get started.  

Measure the length in feet, and the resulting number is the linear feet. One foot is one linear foot. It’s that easy! 

Note: If your tape measure doesn’t list feet, divide the number of inches by 12 to convert to feet. For example, if you measure 96 inches in length, 96/12 = 8, so you would have 8 linear feet.  

Tape measure measuring linear footage

 

Why are linear feet important for U-Pack trailer moves?

When moving with U-Pack, the number of linear feet filled in the trailer determines your rate. You only pay for the space used (down to a 5-foot minimum), which means U-Pack is one of the most flexible and affordable ways to move out of state.   

We’ll provide a quote for a set number of linear feet based on your home size. If you use more or less space than the estimate, the price will adjust according to the per-foot rate on the reservation. That means using fewer linear feet will save you money! 

There’s no need to worry about the weight of your belongings since we don’t consider it for moving costs. 

Check out this video for a quick overview:

 

Linear foot calculator for a U-Pack trailer 

Use the chart below to estimate the space needed in a moving trailer. Keep in mind that heavily furnished homes may need more space:

Number of Bedrooms U-Pack
Trailer Space
<1 Room 5 linear ft. (min)
1 Room or Studio 6 linear ft.
1 Bedroom 7 linear ft.
2 Bedrooms 13 linear ft.
3 Bedrooms 17 linear ft.
4 Bedrooms 23 linear ft.
5+ Bedrooms 35 linear ft. (1 full and 1 partially full trailer)

Note: U-Pack moving quotes will include a linear footage estimate based on the home size you enter.  

Figure your linear foot rate with U-Pack 

If you think measuring linear feet is easy, wait until you see how easy it is to get a quote with U-Pack. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or use our free, no-obligation online quote form. 

If you have questions about calculating linear feet or want to learn more about U-Pack pricing, let us know in the comments.