Cold roll-forming (CRF) is a highly productive process and therefore an interesting metal forming process. CRF products can be found in many applications like buildings, furniture and vehicles. However, it is a geometric complex process and therefore the knowledge that has been obtained through simple models is limited. The use of FE models to simulate sheet metal forming processes in general is common but not in case of CRF. Finite element models can be used to enhance the understanding of the process and as design tools. They can also be used to create simpler design rules. The objectives of this study are to create a model that can be used to predict the longitudinal membrane strain in the flange and to analyse the contact between the tools and the strip. This strain is important as it determines the number of forming steps needed to form the profile. The created finite element model accounts for friction and elasto-plastic deformations of the strip. The rotating tools are assumed to be rigid. The strip is modelled with thick shell elements and the simulations start from an undeformed strip to a finished U-channel.