A sectional needs to fit in two places: the room where you will use it and the route you will use to bring it inside. Before you choose a layout, make a simple floor plan and record the measurements below.
Start with the exact configuration
Save the product name, configuration name or number, and the diagram for your selected layout. A chaise, corner wedge, or console can change the footprint. Use the dimensions for that arrangement rather than the measurements of a different version shown on the same product page.
Write down overall width, depth, and height. Then ask for the dimensions of the individual sections and their delivery packaging. Overall assembled dimensions help you plan the room; individual-piece and packaged dimensions help you assess the route inside.
Map the room before measuring the sofa
- Draw the usable space. Mark walls, doorways, windows, radiators or vents, and fixed features. Record where doors open.
- Choose the seating direction. Mark the television, conversation area, or other focal point, then decide where a chaise would work.
- Tape out the footprint. Use floor-safe tape to mark the selected sectional’s complete width and depth, including its chaise or corner return. Test tape on a hidden area first.
- Walk through your usual routes. Check the path into the room, the route to adjacent rooms, and access to storage. Add your coffee table or ottoman to the plan.
- Check moving parts. For reclining or sleeper furniture, confirm the manufacturer’s space requirements with the footrests, backs, or bed fully open. Plan access to electrical outlets for powered pieces.
Check left and right from the correct viewpoint
For a layout described as left-arm-facing or right-arm-facing, stand in front of the furniture and face it. Confirm the product’s diagram and labels before ordering; a chaise shown on your left may sit on your right when you are seated.
A quick sketch can prevent confusion. Draw the doorway and television, add an arrow showing where you are standing, and mark the chaise on the plan.
Measure every part of the delivery route
| Part of the route | What to record |
|---|---|
| Exterior and interior doors | Usable opening width and height with the door open; note handles, trim, and the space immediately on both sides. |
| Hallways and turns | The narrowest clear width, ceiling height, and the space available at corners and room entrances. |
| Stairs and landings | Clear width between walls or railings, overhead clearance, landing dimensions, and any turn at the top or bottom. |
| Elevators | Door opening, interior width, depth, and height; ask building management about access and booking requirements. |
| Room entrance | Doorway size and enough space inside the room to move and position each section. |
A doorway’s width alone cannot tell you whether a piece will pass through. Its shape, height, depth, packaging, and the space to turn all matter. Do not assume that legs, backs, or other parts can be removed; ask about the exact model.
Try a simple footprint example
Suppose a layout measures 120 inches wide by 90 inches deep. Its footprint is 10 feet by 7 feet 6 inches. Mark that space on the floor, then add the room needed for walking, tables, doors, and any moving parts.
This example illustrates the measuring process and does not describe a particular product. The taped outline helps you judge room use; it does not establish whether the furniture can pass through your delivery route.
Bring a short checklist when you shop
- The product link and exact configuration name.
- A room sketch with wall lengths, doors, windows, and furniture placement.
- Your smallest doorway and hallway measurements, plus stair or elevator details.
- Photos of tight turns and entrances, without personal information in view.
- Questions about individual-piece dimensions, packaging, and reclining or sleeper clearances.
Explore sectionals, visit our Southfield or Detroit showroom, or call (313) 864-1111 to discuss the measurements for your selected furniture. Read our delivery information before planning your order.