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FAQs
Q: What is the main difference between a short and a standard bed pickup truck?
A: The main difference between a short bed and a standard bed pickup is the size of their beds; short beds are smaller than standard beds in overall length. Short beds typically measure 6 to 8 feet in length, while the standard bed can range from 8 to 10 feet.
Q: Which bed option offers more cargo capacity for hauling large items?
A: Standard beds offer more cargo capacity for large items due to their larger overall size. These trucks are also better equipped to carry long items such as lumber or wide items such as plywood due to their increased interior volume. However, if you only need to transport small or light loads, the shorter length of a short bed can help with fuel economy and maneuverability.
Q: Are there any disadvantages to having a short bed pickup truck?
A: One potential disadvantage of having a short bed pickup is that it may be too small for larger items or multiple medium-sized items that would fit into a standard bed. Additionally, taller loads such as refrigerators may not fit securely in short beds due to its shorter walls (rails) and lower overall height.
Accessory Options
For short bed pickup owners, the most commonly used accessories include optional toppers, headboard shelves and under-bed storage containers. Toppers provide a layer of protection from bird droppings, rain and sun damage on a vehicle’s cargo area. Many also come with well insulated walls to help protect contents from extreme temperatures outside the vehicle. Headboard shelves are great for keeping items such as tools or documents easily accessible for drivers. Under-bed storage containers are ideal for larger items as they will protect them from sandy or wet conditions found in some off-road environments.
For standard bed pickups, it is important to consider a toolbox and tonneau cover addition to the list of common accessories. Toolboxes provide extra secure storage solutions under the tool gate while also protecting valuables inside from prying eyes and weather exposure. Tonneau covers present the ultimate in exterior protection while providing an aerodynamic look when closed; they come in both hard or soft material options that can be retracted or removed if needed. It is also good practice to add undercarriage steps to enable easier access into a high off-ground vehicle which can be helpfulavoiding mishaps at night or in low light conditions.
Interior Space
When comparing passenger and cargo space inside a short bed versus standard bed pickup truck, the shorter bed length obviously limits the interior space available. The size of the cab and interior seating configurations complicate this comparison further. Short beds are generally associated with extended or crew cab pickups, which usually offer two rows of seating, while standard beds tend to be associated with regular cab pickups that may offer just one row of seats or limited storage for additional passengers/cargo. Regardless of whether you’re looking at a short or standard bed truck, all modern makes/models typically have a wide array of available amenities to help maximize interior comfort and spaciousness such as: adjustable power lumbar support features; reclining seats; center console storage; rear folding seats; climate control; and audio systems with touchscreen displays.
Towing Capacity
Short bed pickups generally have a lower towing capacity than standard bed pickups, because they typically have a shorter wheelbase. This means that larger and/or heavier trailers could be harder to maneuver around tight turns. People who need to tow heavy trailers should consider buying a truck with a standard bed, which will provide more stability due to the increased wheelbase length. Standard beds are often longer than short beds and can sometimes accommodate larger cargo loads as well.
However, short beds are typically the better option for overall fuel economy. Pickup trucks with short beds often weigh less than their standard bed counterparts, so they tend to require less fuel on average. Short beds also provide great maneuverability when it comes to parking, making them ideal for city drivers as well as off-road adventures.
When considering which truck bed size makes the most sense for your lifestyle, it’s important to keep in mind the type of load you plan on hauling regularly and how much power your vehicle needs in order to meet those needs. Different types and sizes of engines can significantly affect the carrying capacity of each pickup truck option, so test driving different models is recommended before making your final decision.
Off-Road Capabilities
Short bed trucks tend to have more advantages for off-roading, primarily due to their less rigid suspension and greater approach angles. The lack of a bed area helps make the wheelbase shorter, making it easier to quickly maneuver around off-road obstacles. Additionally, short beds offer higher ground clearance due to their raised chassis. Furthermore, their relatively low weight makes it easier to make quick decisions when navigating through technical terrain.
Standard bed trucks are not as well suited to off-roading because of the longer wheelbase. Longer wheelbases mean that it is harder to quickly turn the truck around obstacles. Also, with a standard bed truck you risk bottoming out on steeper climbs and descents since there is more weight in the back than a short bed truck. To aid with off-roading performance of standard beds, manufacturers often add additional support and bracing points around the hitch area at the back end in order to provide reinforcements and stability when tackling tough trails. Additionally, many vehicles will feature aftermarket lift kits or suspension modifications designed specifically for reaching higher areas that require an even wider wheelbase presence when out on the trail.
