Golf carts are no longer limited to the green. They are now a regular sight in campgrounds, gated communities, farms, and even business campuses. With their popularity increasing, many owners face a common question: will golf cart fit in truck bed? This question is more than just curiosity; it involves safety, legality, and practicality. Whether you own a short bed, a standard bed, or a long bed truck, the fit depends on cart size, bed dimensions, payload limits, and proper loading techniques. By exploring these factors, you can determine the best way to move your cart securely.
Golf Cart Dimensions and Why They Matter
The first consideration in deciding whether a golf cart will fit in a truck bed is its size. Standard two-seater golf carts measure about eight feet long and four feet wide, with a height of five to six feet. This size is fairly consistent, although carts with rear-facing seats, cargo attachments, or lifted suspensions can be longer and taller. Larger four-seat models may stretch closer to ten feet in length. Even minor customizations, such as oversized tires or roof racks, can affect whether the cart fits comfortably. Measuring your specific cart is the most reliable way to avoid issues when loading it into a truck.
Truck Bed Sizes Explained
Equally important is the size of the truck bed. Pickup trucks generally come with three bed configurations. Short beds measure around five and a half feet long, standard beds are about six and a half feet, and long beds typically run eight feet. Width between the wheel wells usually averages just over four feet, which aligns closely with the width of most golf carts. This makes width less of a challenge than length. Because carts are usually eight feet or longer, short beds rarely work, standard beds require careful adjustments, and long beds are the most reliable for fitting carts securely.
Short Bed Limitations
Drivers with short bed trucks often find themselves disappointed when asking will golf cart fit in truck bed. At five and a half feet, the bed is simply too short for an eight-foot cart. Even with the tailgate down, the cart would extend dangerously beyond the end of the bed. Weight distribution becomes uneven, stability is compromised, and the setup may be illegal in certain states. While some owners attempt this arrangement with extra strapping, it is rarely recommended. In most situations, using a trailer is safer and more practical for short bed owners.
Standard Bed Possibilities
A standard six-and-a-half-foot bed provides a more workable option. With the tailgate down, the cart will extend only about a foot and a half beyond the bed, which is easier to manage than with a short bed. Many owners successfully transport carts this way by securing them with ratchet straps and ensuring that the parking brake is engaged. However, drivers must consider that the overhang may block taillights or license plates, potentially violating traffic regulations. Careful positioning and additional safety markers may be required to remain compliant.
Long Bed Advantages
Long bed trucks provide the most straightforward answer to the question will golf cart fit in truck bed. At roughly eight feet long, they align perfectly with the dimensions of most standard golf carts. This means the cart can often fit snugly inside the bed with minimal or no overhang. Long beds distribute the weight more evenly, reduce strain on the suspension, and improve stability when driving with a loaded cart. For larger or modified carts, there may still be slight overhang, but long beds offer the safest and most reliable fit overall.
Loading and Safety Considerations
Even if the cart fits by measurement, loading it safely is another challenge. Level ground is essential when setting up ramps, as uneven surfaces can cause slips or tipping. Heavy-duty ramps rated for at least 1,000 pounds should always be used, and they must be firmly secured before driving the cart into the bed. Once inside, the cart should be centered as much as possible to balance weight across the bed. Ratchet straps must be applied at both the front and rear to prevent shifting, and the cart’s parking brake should always be engaged. Proper loading reduces the risk of damage and ensures safety on the road.
Weight and Payload Limits
In addition to dimensions, weight is a crucial factor. Most golf carts weigh between 900 and 1,200 pounds. Half-ton trucks can typically handle this payload, but owners must confirm the exact capacity in their vehicle manual. Exceeding payload limits can strain suspension systems, wear out brakes prematurely, and pose significant safety risks. Owners of smaller or lighter trucks should take extra caution before attempting to load a cart directly into the bed. If the payload limit is exceeded, a trailer or alternative transport is the safer choice.
Legal Considerations
Transporting a golf cart is not just a matter of fit; it also involves road regulations. Many states limit how far a load can extend beyond the truck bed. In several jurisdictions, any load extending more than four feet past the tailgate requires a red flag during daylight and a red light at night. Blocking taillights or obscuring a license plate can also result in fines. Because laws differ by state, it’s important to review the regulations in your area before hauling a golf cart. Failure to comply could result in penalties or unsafe road conditions for other drivers.
Examples with Popular Truck Models
Consider some common truck models as examples. A Ford F-150 with a short bed is too small to safely carry a standard golf cart, so a trailer is recommended. A Chevrolet Silverado with a standard bed can carry a cart with the tailgate down, but the driver must secure it carefully. A Ram 2500 with a long bed is ideal, as most carts fit securely within its eight-foot bed. These comparisons highlight how the type of truck can dramatically change the answer to the question.
Industry Perspective
According to Autotrader, bed size plays one of the most important roles in deciding how cargo is hauled. Their guide explains how truck beds vary across makes and models, confirming why long beds offer the most flexibility for large items like golf carts. Understanding your truck’s specific bed length not only helps answer whether the cart will fit but also helps plan for other hauling needs.
Conclusion: Will Golf Cart Fit in Truck Bed?
So, will golf cart fit in truck bed? The answer depends on the truck and the cart. Short beds almost never work safely, standard beds can be workable with the tailgate down and careful strapping, and long beds provide the most reliable fit. Weight limits, loading techniques, and state laws also play crucial roles. For many drivers, a trailer is often the simplest and safest choice, but with proper planning, hauling a golf cart in a truck bed is entirely possible. By measuring carefully and securing properly, you can transport your cart with confidence.
At Hartville Golf Carts, we know that moving your cart is part of ownership. Whether you transport it for recreation, work, or community use, understanding the details of fit and safety ensures a smooth experience. With the right preparation, a truck bed can become a practical solution for hauling your golf cart wherever you need it.
