Measure the space where the sofa will go, then every doorway, hallway, stairwell and elevator on the delivery path. Compare those with the sofa's width, depth, height and diagonal depth. If the doorway width is greater than the sofa's height or diagonal depth, it can usually be tilted through. Leave about 18 inches between the sofa and a coffee table and roughly 30 to 36 inches for walkways.
A sofa that doesn’t fit through the door is an expensive mistake. Measuring takes 15 minutes.
1. Measure the room
- Mark the sofa’s footprint with painter’s tape.
- Leave 30 to 36 inches for main walkways.
- Allow 16 to 18 inches to a coffee table.
- Check that it doesn’t block windows, vents or outlets you need.
2. Know the sofa’s dimensions
| Measurement | What it is |
|---|---|
| Width | Arm to arm |
| Depth | Back to front |
| Height | Floor to top of back |
| Diagonal depth | Top back corner to front of seat |
| Seat height and depth | Comfort and fit for your body |
If the listing doesn’t give diagonal depth, ask, or measure it on a floor model.
3. Measure the delivery path
For each doorway, hallway, stairwell and elevator:
- Width and height of the opening
- Hallway width and any tight turns
- Stairwell ceiling height and landing turns
- Elevator interior dimensions, including the diagonal
4. Will it fit?
As a rule of thumb, a sofa fits through a doorway if the doorway width is greater than the sofa’s height or diagonal depth, so it can be turned on its side or tilted back. Tight turns in hallways and stairs are the most common problem.
Ways around tight spaces
- Removable legs save a few inches.
- Detachable arms or backs
- Modular or sectional pieces delivered separately
- Sofa-in-a-box designs
- Removing a door from its hinges adds an inch or two
Comfort checks
Seat depth of about 21 to 24 inches suits most people. Deeper seats are great for lounging; shorter people may prefer shallower seats.
Common questions
What is diagonal depth on a sofa?
The distance from the top back corner of the sofa to the front edge of the seat. It shows whether a sofa can be tilted on its back to fit through a narrower doorway.
How much space should be between a sofa and a coffee table?
Around 16 to 18 inches is comfortable for reaching drinks while leaving room for legs.
What if my sofa won't fit through the door?
Look for models with removable legs, detachable arms or back cushions, or modular sofas and sofas shipped in boxes.