Why Knowing About Linear Foot is Important When Moving?

Ever wonder why your moving costs keep increasing? It Could Be All About Linear Foot!

Let’s face it: moving is stressful enough without the surprise costs popping up along the way. But did you know that one of the key factors that could drastically change your moving expenses is something called "linear foot"?

You might have heard the term tossed around by movers, but what does it actually mean for you and your wallet?

Whether you're tackling a cross-country relocation or just moving down the street, understanding linear footage can help you plan your move more efficiently, save money, and avoid hidden fees that many people don’t even know to look out for.

Stick with us, and we’ll explain exactly how mastering this simple measurement can make all the difference in your moving budget.

What is a Linear Foot?

If you are wondering “how do I measure a linear foot”, here is what you need to know first, i.e., understanding its meaning;

A linear foot is a measurement of length that equals 12 inches (or one foot) in a straight line. Unlike square footage, which considers both width and length, a linear foot only accounts for one dimension.

Moving companies use linear feet to estimate how much truck space your belongings will occupy.

For instance, if you are moving using a shared moving truck, the cost is often calculated based on the linear feet of space your items take up in the truck. Understanding this helps you optimize your packing strategy and control your moving budget.

Why is Linear Foot Measurement Important in Moving?

1. Accurate Cost Estimation

Movers generally charge based on weight or space. If they charge based on space, they measure the length your items take up in linear feet. Understanding this measurement can help you compare quotes more effectively and ensure you’re not overpaying.

2. Efficient Packing and Space Optimization

Since moving costs are directly tied to the linear footage your items occupy, packing efficiently can make a significant difference in your expenses.

The less space your belongings take up, the more you can save.

Here are some strategies to optimize space and reduce costs:

• Use Stackable Bins and Containers: Invest in stackable moving bins or sturdy plastic containers. These are designed to make the most of vertical space, allowing you to fit more items into a smaller area. Plus, they help keep everything organized, reducing the need for extra space on the truck.
• Compress Soft Items: Use vacuum-seal bags to compress soft items like clothes, blankets, and bedding. These bags shrink down soft goods to a fraction of their original size, letting you pack more into a smaller space.
• Disassemble Large Furniture: Taking apart large furniture like beds, bookshelves, or tables can significantly reduce the space they occupy.
  Check Out: Do Movers Offer Bed Disassembly
• Utilize Furniture Space: Pack smaller items inside large furniture, such as couches, dressers, or cabinets. Not only does this save space, but it also protects your belongings from damage during transit.

3. Helps in Choosing the Right Moving Service

Some moving companies offer pay-by-the-foot pricing, allowing you to rent only the amount of truck space you need. This is common with services like freight moving and shared truck rentals. If you have a smaller move, you can save significantly by paying only for the linear feet you use instead of renting an entire truck.

4. Prevents Last-Minute Surprises

If you underestimate the linear footage required, you might run into additional charges on moving day.

Movers may require extra space, leading to unexpected costs. Being informed about how many linear feet your belongings will take up can help you avoid such surprises.

How to Calculate Linear Feet for Your Move?

To calculate the linear feet needed for your move, follow these steps:

1. Measure the Length of Your Items:

• Line up your packed boxes, furniture, and other belongings.
• Measure the total length from end to end in feet.

2. Account for Stacking and Packing Density:

• If your items are stackable, you can fit more in a smaller linear space.
• Use the moving company guidelines to determine how they stack and pack items.

3. Check Moving Truck Dimensions:

• Trucks have different widths, but most are about 8 feet wide.
• If your items span across the width of the truck, you only need to consider the length occupied.

How Moving Companies Use Linear Foot Pricing

Moving companies often rely on linear footage to determine how much space your belongings will occupy in their truck. This pricing method is beneficial for both you and the moving company, as it helps provide a more accurate estimate of costs based on the space used rather than weight or volume.

Here's how this pricing works in different moving scenarios:

Freight Moving Services:

Freight moving companies charge based on the linear feet used in their trailer or container. With this method, you're allotted a certain amount of space, and you pay according to how many linear feet you occupy.

• Flexibility: You’re not paying for the entire truck, so you only pay for what you need.
• Cost Efficiency: This method is ideal for long-distance moves or when you don’t have enough items to fill a whole truck.
• Space Allocation: Freight companies generally offer different space options, allowing you to select the right amount of room depending on how much you need to move.

Shared Moving Truck Rentals

Some companies offer shared truck rentals where multiple customers share the same truck. You only pay for the linear feet your items occupy.

• Affordable Option: This is a cost-effective choice for smaller moves because you share the cost of the truck space with other customers.
• Optimized Space: Movers will load the truck carefully to ensure all available space is utilized, meaning you’re not paying for unused truck space.
• Great for Smaller Moves: If you’re only moving a few items or a small apartment, this option can significantly reduce the overall cost.

How to Reduce Linear Feet and Save Money on Moving?

1. Declutter and Downsize

Before your move, sort through your belongings and get rid of items you no longer need. The less you move, the fewer linear feet you’ll require, saving you money.

2. Pack Smartly

Use compact packing methods to reduce wasted space.

Also read, What to Pack First When Moving?

3. Utilize Space in a Truck Strategically

If renting a portion of a moving truck, work with the moving company to optimize how your items are loaded. Proper loading can help reduce wasted space and lower costs.

4. Get Multiple Quotes

When planning your move, it's always a good idea to compare quotes from different moving companies that charge based on linear footage. This allows you to find the best deal for your specific needs.

At Van Lines Move, we offer a range of movers to handle your relocation according to your preferences, with specialized services that cater to various types of moves.

You can easily compare multiple quotes from our network, giving you the flexibility to choose the best option, including affordable choices that fit your budget.

Get quotes now!

Understanding linear foot pricing is crucial for planning a cost-effective move. By knowing how much space your belongings will occupy in the moving truck, you can take control of your moving expenses and avoid unexpected charges.

By optimizing your packing, choosing the right moving service, and being mindful of the space you use, you can reduce costs and ensure a smoother move.

With the tips provided in this article, you can make smarter decisions, save money, and handle your relocation with confidence. Keep these insights in mind, and you’ll be able to make your move as efficient and affordable as possible!