We’ve updated our linear feet calculation with a new trailer space utilization formula that considers standard trailer dimensions:
Linear Feet = (Length in feet) / (96/Width in inches) * Number of pieces
Understanding the Formula:
1. Standard trailer width is 96 inches
2. (96/Width in inches) calculates theoretical space usage:
– Example: For a 66″ wide item, 96/66 = 1.45
– This means each item takes up 1/1.45 of the trailer width
3. When we divide Length by this number:
– Example: 5 feet / 1.45 = 3.44 feet
– This gives us the effective length needed for each item considering how they can be arranged across the trailer width
4. Multiply by pieces to get total linear feet required
Example with two commodities:
– Commodity 1: 60″x66″, 2 pieces
– Commodity 2: 48″x48″, 3 pieces
For non-stacked loads:
Calculate each commodity separately:
Commodity 1:
1. Length = 60″/12 = 5 feet
2. Width ratio = 96″/66″ = 1.45
3. Per-piece length = 5/1.45 = 3.44 feet
4. Total = 3.44 * 2 pieces = 6.88 feet
Commodity 2:
1. Length = 48″/12 = 4 feet
2. Width ratio = 96″/48″ = 2
3. Per-piece length = 4/2 = 2 feet
4. Total = 2 * 3 pieces = 6 feet
Total non-stacked = 6.88 + 6 = 12.88 feet (rounds to 13)
For stacked loads:
1. Identify longest (60″ from Commodity 1)
2. Convert length to feet: 60″/12 = 5 feet
3. Use its width: 66″
4. Calculate width ratio: 96″/66″ = 1.45
5. Get per-piece length: 5/1.45 = 3.44 feet
6. Use its full pieces (2)
7. Final calculation: 3.44 * 2 = 6.88 feet (rounds to 7)
Note: These calculations are estimates based on standard trailer dimensions.
Actual loading may vary based on specific requirements.