Truck bed length is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a pickup truck. The size of the bed can determine how much cargo you can transport and how much your truck can tow. Many truck shoppers know that the length of the truck bed has an effect on usability, but they may not be aware of all the different lengths and their advantages and disadvantages.
The most common type of pickup truck bed is a short bed, typically measuring about 5.5 feet long. This size makes it ideal for everyday driving and hauling small items.
It also offers great maneuverability and tight turning radius, making it ideal for city driving. However, its small size limits your ability to transport larger items.
A standard or regular-length bed is typically 8 feet long. This size offers more space than a short bed, allowing you to transport larger cargo such as furniture or appliances without having to use extra straps or bungee cords. Its longer length also gives you more pulling power when towing large trailers.
Long beds, usually 8 feet 6 inches long, offer even more space than regular-length beds. They are perfect for those who frequently transport large items such as furniture or construction materials. Although they provide more space for hauling large items, their length makes them difficult to maneuver in city traffic and tight parking spaces.
Crew cab trucks, the most popular type of pickup trucks today, have beds that are about 5 feet 7 inches long with an extended cab option that offers 6 feet 4 inches of total length. This size provides plenty of room for larger cargo while still offering good maneuverability in tight spaces.
Ultimately, choosing the right truck bed length depends on what type of hauling you do most often. If you need plenty of room for transporting large items like furniture or construction materials, then going with a longer bed such as a regular-length or long bed may be your best bet. Those who need less hauling capacity but still want some extra room in their truck should consider getting a crew cab with either a short or extended cab option.
Conclusion: When it comes to choosing the best truck bed length for your needs, there are several factors to consider including your hauling needs and driving habits. Short beds offer great maneuverability while regular-length and long beds offer more space for transporting larger items. Crew cab trucks offer plenty of room while still being easy to drive in crowded areas.
