How Long Distance Movers Calculate Cubic Feet

Reputable long distance moving companies calculate cubic feet by multiplying the dimensions of your items by length, width, and height and then dividing the total by 1732. The only way movers can calculate the cubic feet of your furniture accurately is by doing an in-home estimate or by asking you to measure your household goods. If you have gotten a quote from a long distance moving company and your estimate has changed, is inaccurate, or you want to ensure that it is accurate, this article is for you.

Consumers canceling their contracts with long distance movers because their estimated cubic footage has doubled is more common than you think.

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How Most Movers Estimate Your Cubic Footage.

About 70% of long distance moving companies estimate your cubic feet over the phone. They input the items you mention in software that estimates the CF of your item based on averages. Unfortunately, this leads to inaccurate quotes and cost increases when movers arrive and realize that your estimated cubic feet are inaccurate. To avoid this, it's best to ask for an in-home estimate. However, if you live in a rural state, the number of moving options offering in-home estimation services may be limited to expensive major van lines.

Getting an over-the-phone estimate? Ensure your quote is reasonably accurate and comes from a reputable relocation brand to avoid billing disputes with your movers.

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Three Ways Movers Collect Your Inventory (and How Accurate Each One Is)

Before a truck arrives at your moving from state, the mover has to decide how much truck space you'll need. That decision is only as good as the survey method they use. Below is a chart you can use as a reference to gauge the accuracy of your estimated long distance moving costs based on how your volume was estimated:

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The Cubic Foot Formula in Plain English.

In simple terms this is how moving companies calculate cubic feet:

1. Measure each item in inches (L × W × H).

2. Multiply the three numbers to get cubic inches.

3. Divide by 1,728 (because 12 in × 12 in × 12 in = 1,728 in³) to convert to cubic feet.

Example – Queen mattress = 60 in × 80 in × 10 in → 48,000 in³ ÷ 1,728 ≈ 28 cf.

A credible estimator uses that math on a tablet—or does an in-home walk-through with preset averages (mattress ≈ 28 cf, three-seat sofa ≈ 87 cf, wardrobe box ≈ 15 cf).

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What Cubic Feet Typically Looks like In A Truck.

Below is a chart showing you what 300cf, 600cf, 800cf, 1000cf and 1600cf looks like. Knowing these benchmarks gives you instant context the next time a crew says, “Looks like you jumped from 800 to 1,500 cubic feet.” Now, you can push back with data—or approve the change with confidence:

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Things to Consider Based On Chart Mentioned Above:

20 Foot Truck.

A 20ft moving truck will not exceed 1000 cubic feet. If your movers claim that you have more than 1,000 cubic feet in a 20ft truck, they are likely being deceptive and are price-gauging you.

26 Foot Truck.

A 26-foot truck fits between 1600 to 1800 cubic feet worth of space. If your long-distance moving company claims you are utilizing 2,000+ cubic feet in a 26-foot truck, this is not possible and is an attempt to price-gauge you.

Check The Truck column.

If your mover claims you need more space than the table suggests, ask for the math (or a scale ticket).

Watch for Overflow Triggers 

 Sectionals over 9 ft, pianos, or a packed garage can blow past the 1,600 cf mark and push you into a second 26-footer or a 53-ft tractor-trailer.

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Bottom Line — Know Your Numbers, Keep Your Wallet.

Cubic-foot pricing isn’t evil—it’s just easy to abuse. Learn the formula, keep the benchmarks handy, and insist on written documentation. When a mover knows you understand the numbers, the “mystery cube” surcharges magically disappear.