Deciding on the right pickup truck for you can be a challenging task at times. A major factor worth considering is the truck bed length. Yes, the right bed length can really make all the difference! Things like hauling capacity, ease of maneuverability, and even overall practicality depend on the truck bed length.
So let's take a look at different truck bed lengths to help you determine which pickup is right for you.
A Look at Common Truck Bed Lengths
Pickup truck beds usually come in three lengths, namely short bed, standard bed and long bed. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at each one below:
Short Bed - Usually 5 - 6.5 feet
Advantages
- Trucks with short beds are easier to maneuver even in tight spaces.
- A major advantage of short bed trucks is ease of parking. Such trucks are usually easier to park so they are great in urban areas and places where parking options are limited.
- Short beds are often paired with more compact truck designs, so some trucks with short beds are smaller than others and easier to drive.
Disadvantages
- Because of its short length, cargo capacity is usually limited.
- Short beds may not be suitable for larger or bulkier items
Standard Bed - Usually around 6.5 feet
Advantages
- Trucks with standard bed length offer a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability
- This length is suitable for most hauling needs. It doesn't matter if it is furniture or just your usual tools, the standard truck bed can handle them easily.
Disadvantages
- Standard beds may not be long enough for very large or heavy items.
- Unlike short bed trucks, parking can be challenging in tight spaces for trucks with standard beds.
Long Bed - Usually 8 feet or slightly more
Advantages
- Long beds have maximum cargo capacity for large and heavy items.
- A long truck bed is ideal for heavy-duty hauling and construction work.
- It can accommodate longer items lumber or pipes with ease.
Disadvantages
- Of the 3 truck bed lengths, this is the most difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
- A major disadvantage of long truck beds is parking. You need a lot of space to park trucks with long beds. Some parking garages don't even have space for them.
Which Pickup Is Right for You?
To choose the right pickup truck for you with ease, you need to consider the following important factors:
- Your Cargo needs: Consider the type of items you will be hauling. If large or heavy items, a longer bed may be necessary.
- Maneuverability: This is important if you drive in tight spaces or urban areas regularly. You need a bed length that will allow for easy maneuverability, so a shorter bed is definitely a more option.
- Parking: If you have limited parking space or need to fit in a regular garage, you need to make sure the space can accommodate the truck bed length you are considering.
Popular Pickup Trucks
The Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 are popular trucks with short, standard and long bed options.
Ford F-150
- SHORT: 5.5 feet
- STANDARD: 6.5 feet
- LONG: 8 feet
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- SHORT: 5.8 feet
- STANDARD: 6.6 feet
- LONG: 8 feet.
RAM 1500
- SHORT: 5.7 feet
- STANDARD: 6.4 feet
- LONG: 8 feet
Conclusion
Having discussed in details, the pros and cons of different truck bed lengths, you are now quipped with the knowledge needed to choose the right pickup truck bed that suits your needs and preferences.
