If you’re looking to protect your truck bed from the elements or keep your cargo safe and secure, a truck bed cover is a wise investment. But before you can buy a cover that fits perfectly, you need to measure your truck bed. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Determine Your Truck’s Bed Style
The first step in measuring your truck bed is to determine its style. There are three main styles of truck beds: standard, short, and long. Standard beds are typically 6.5 feet long, short beds are around 5.5 feet long, and long beds are around 8 feet long. However, these measurements can vary slightly depending on the make and model of your truck.
Step 2: Measure the Length of Your Truck Bed
Once you’ve determined your truck bed’s style, measure the length of your bed. To do this, start at the bulkhead (the front wall of the truck bed) and measure all the way to the tailgate. Be sure to measure the full length of the bed, including the area under any tailgate extenders or bed liners.
Step 3: Measure the Width of Your Truck Bed
The next step is to measure the width of your truck bed. This should be done at three points: the front, middle, and back of the bed. Measure from one inside wall to the other, making sure to account for any curves or contours in the bed.
Step 4: Measure the Height of Your Truck Bed
Finally, measure the height of your truck bed. You’ll need to measure from the top of the bed rail to the bottom of the truck bed. Be sure to measure at both the front and back of the bed to account for any slopes or angles.
Step 5: Consider Any Accessories or Modifications
Before you purchase a truck bed cover, consider any accessories or modifications that may affect the fit. For example, if you have a tool box or bed liner, you may need to look for a cover that is specifically designed to accommodate these items. Likewise, if you have a truck with a high-rise or low-profile cap, you’ll need to look for a cover that is compatible with this type of setup.
Step 6: Choose the Right Truck Bed Cover
Once you’ve measured your truck bed and taken into account any accessories or modifications, you’re ready to choose a truck bed cover. There are several types of covers to choose from, including hard covers, soft covers, and retractable covers.
Be sure to choose a cover that fits your specific make and model of truck, as well as any other unique factors you’ve identified during the measuring process.
Conclusion
By taking the time to properly measure your truck bed, you’ll be able to choose a cover that fits snugly and provides the protection you need. Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to a perfectly sized truck bed cover in no time!