A tonneau cover is a protective covering placed over a pickup truck’s bed. It provides a layer of security and weather resistance and can improve the vehicle’s overall look. Before purchasing a tonneau cover, measuring the truck bed accurately is important to ensure the cover fits properly. But, How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tonneau cover in the best way?
In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to measure a truck bed for a tonneau cover. There will be a discussion on finding truck bed size by VIN and measuring your truck’s bed liner. Also, I have added some measuring charts for your convenience, so keep reading.
How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tonneau cover?
In order to snuggly fit the tonneau cover on the truck bed, you can follow these steps.
1- Determine the Type of Truck Bed
The first step is to determine the type of truck bed you have. Standard beds are typically 8 feet long, while short beds are usually 6 or 6.5 feet long.
2- How to Measure the Length of Truck Bed?
To measure the length of the truck bed, measure from the inside of the tailgate to the inside of the bulkhead (front of the bed). For example, if you have a 2019 Ford F-150 with a standard bed, the length would be 8 feet or 96 inches.
3- How to Measure the width of the bed?
Measure the width of the truck bed at the widest point. This is typically at the top of the bed near the cab. For example, if you have a 2019 Ford F-150 with a standard bed, the width at the widest point would be 70 inches.
4- Measure From the Top to Tailgate – Closed
Measure the distance from the top of the bed to the top of the tailgate when it is closed. Like, if you have a 2019 Ford F-150 with a standard bed, the distance would be 22 inches.
5- Look for Obstructions
Check for any obstructions that may affect the fit of the tonneau cover, such as bed liners or bed extenders. If you can’t remove the obstruction and your truck bed cover is long, then you need to shorten the truck bed cover.
6- Manual Guide Consideration
Consult the tonneau cover manufacturer’s guide to determine the correct size for your truck bed.
If you’re looking at a tonneau cover made by Truxedo, they may recommend a cover that fits a 2019 Ford F-150 with an 8-foot bed, a width of 70 inches, and a height of 22 inches.
7- Choose the Right Tonneau Cover
Choose the right tonneau cover that fits your truck bed and your needs. For example, if you prioritize security and weather resistance, you may choose a hardcover made of fiberglass or aluminum. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, a soft vinyl or canvas cover may be a better choice
How to Measure the square feet?
If you want to measure the bed cover in square feet, you can follow this method:
- To measure the square feet, multiply your width(inches) x length(inches). So it will give you a proper calculation of your square footage adjustment.
- Also, if you want your measurements in feet, divide the values of inches by 12.
How to find Truck Bed Size?
To find your truck bed size, measure the length from the inside of the tailgate to the inside of the bulkhead (front of the bed), measure the width at the widest point, and measure the distance from the top of the bed to the top of the tailgate when it’s closed. Consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for standard bed lengths.
How to find truck bed size by VIN?
Your car’s VIN (vehicle identification number) determines the size of your truck bed. You may find the VIN by searching in the door frame on the driver’s side or at the bottom of your windshield.
The VIN is useful for indirectly determining your truck bed’s size. Using the VIN, you can gather information about the vehicle’s make, model, and year, which can then determine the most likely bed size.
For example, if you have a 2019 Ford F-150 with a VIN of 1FTEW1EP1KFA12345, you can determine that it is an F-150 made by Ford in 2019. You can consult the owner’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website to determine the bed length using this information. In this case, the 2019 Ford F-150 comes in three-bed lengths: 5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, and 8 feet.
Measurements of some Truck bed
I measured truck beds of vehicles I owned all these years. That is (in ft):
Ram 1500 Classic
- Length: 5’7″
- Length: 6’4″
- Width: 5’7″
- Width: 6’4″
Silverado/Sierra upto 2019
- Length: 1/2″
- Width: 1/4″ with rail
Ford F-250 Super Duty 2022
- Length: 6’7″
- Length: 8′
- Width: 6’7″
- Width: 8′
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best way to measure a truck bed for a tonneau cover?
The best way to measure a truck bed for a tonneau cover is to measure the length of the bed from the inside of the tailgate to the inside of the bulkhead, measure the width of the bed at the widest point, and measure the distance from the top of the bed to the top of the tailgate when it’s closed. Measuring accurately is important to ensure a proper fit for the tonneau cover.
Can I use the make and model of my truck to determine the correct tonneau cover size?
Yes, you can use the make and model of your truck to determine the correct tonneau cover size. Many tonneau cover manufacturers provide guides that list the correct size for each make and model of truck. However, it’s still important to measure your truck bed to ensure accuracy, especially if you have a customized or non-standard bed
How should a tonneau cover fit?
A tonneau cover should fit snugly on your truck bed without gaps or sagging. The cover should be secured firmly to the bed with clamps or other fasteners to prevent any movement while driving. The cover should also be flush with the top of the bed rails to ensure proper sealing and protection against the elements.
When closed, the cover should not obstruct the operation of the tailgate and should allow for easy access to the truck bed. A properly fitting tonneau cover will provide maximum protection for your cargo and improve your truck’s overall appearance.
You can read this guide to understand the concept completely, Are Tonneau Covers Universal | Are they interchangeable?
Conclusion
Have you got everything on How to measure a truck bed for a Tonneau cover? To summarize the discussion, I tried to cover all aspects of the measurement of a tonneau bed cover. The techniques which I explained above are precise and accurate. So without any doubt, you can go through these techniques and measure your truck’s bed.
Joshea Mark is a trucker with a wealth of experience and a keen eye for quality. He has spent countless hours on the road and knows firsthand the importance of having a reliable tonneau cover to protect his cargo. That’s why Joshea is so passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.
At Best in Tonneau Covers, he reviews the latest and greatest covers on the market, compares different brands, and writes buyer guides to help truckers like himself make informed decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the world of trucking, Joshea’s insights and advice are sure to be valuable. His writing is authentic and personal, reflecting his years of experience and his genuine desire to help others.