Calculating Linear Inches

Linear Inches Calculator

Quickly determine the total linear dimensions for airline baggage or shipping requirements.

Calculation Results:

function calculateLinearInches() { var length = parseFloat(document.getElementById('calc_length').value); var width = parseFloat(document.getElementById('calc_width').value); var height = parseFloat(document.getElementById('calc_height').value); var resultBox = document.getElementById('linear_result_box'); var resultText = document.getElementById('linear_inches_value'); var statusText = document.getElementById('baggage_status'); if (isNaN(length) || isNaN(width) || isNaN(height) || length < 0 || width < 0 || height < 0) { alert("Please enter valid positive numbers for length, width, and height."); return; } var totalLinearInches = length + width + height; resultText.innerHTML = totalLinearInches.toFixed(2) + " Linear Inches"; resultBox.style.display = "block"; // Standard Airline Rules Comparison if (totalLinearInches <= 45) { statusText.innerHTML = "Status: Likely fits standard Carry-on limits (usually 45\"). Check specific airline dimensions."; } else if (totalLinearInches <= 62) { statusText.innerHTML = "Status: Likely fits standard Checked Bag limits (usually 62\")."; } else { statusText.innerHTML = "Status: Exceeds 62\". This may be considered Oversized Luggage and incur additional fees."; } }

Understanding Linear Inches

When preparing for air travel or shipping items through carriers like UPS, FedEx, or USPS, you will frequently encounter the term "Linear Inches." Unlike square inches (area) or cubic inches (volume), linear inches are a simple measurement of the sum of an object's external dimensions.

How to Calculate Linear Inches

The formula for calculating linear inches is straightforward:

Linear Inches = Length + Width + Height

To get an accurate measurement, always measure the longest point of each side, including protruding parts like handles, wheels, or side pockets on a suitcase.

Why Do Airlines Use Linear Inches?

Airlines use linear inches to ensure that bags can fit into overhead bins or cargo holds efficiently. By using a sum of dimensions rather than specific fixed lengths, it allows travelers flexibility in the shape of their bags (e.g., a tall thin bag vs. a short wide bag) while still ensuring the bag occupies a predictable amount of space.

Common Standards for Luggage

Bag Type	Typical Limit
Personal Item	Approx. 34 – 36 Linear Inches
Carry-on Bag	Approx. 45 Linear Inches
Checked Bag	62 Linear Inches
Oversized Bag	Over 62 Linear Inches

Example Calculation

Suppose you have a large suitcase that you plan to check. You measure it and find the following:

• Length: 30 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Height: 11 inches

Calculation: 30 + 20 + 11 = 61 linear inches.

In this case, your bag is just under the 62-inch limit used by most major airlines (like Delta, United, and American Airlines), meaning you should avoid oversized baggage fees.

Tips for Measuring Correcty

1. Measure at the widest point: Don't just measure the seam of the bag. Include the wheels and handles.
2. Don't overstuff: If your bag is soft-sided and bulging, the height or width might increase, potentially pushing you over the linear inch limit.
3. Convert units: If you measured in centimeters, divide the total by 2.54 to get the linear inches.