2020 Ford F-150 5.5' Bed Dimensions: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey truck enthusiasts! If you're here, chances are you're either a proud owner of a 2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.5-foot bed, or you're seriously considering joining the club. Either way, you're in the right place! We're diving deep into the 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' bed dimensions, breaking down everything you need to know about this popular configuration. From cargo capacity to real-world usability, we've got you covered. Buckle up, because we're about to explore the ins and outs of this versatile truck bed!
Understanding the 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' Bed Dimensions
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. When we talk about the 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' bed dimensions, we're primarily focused on the interior measurements. These are the numbers that matter when you're loading up your gear, whether it's for work or play. The 5.5-foot bed is a popular choice because it offers a great balance between cargo space and overall truck maneuverability. It's shorter than the 6.5-foot and 8-foot beds, making it easier to park and navigate tight spaces, but still provides ample room for many common hauling tasks. Now, let's break down those crucial dimensions:
- Inside Length: This is the most critical dimension for determining what fits in your bed. For the 2020 Ford F-150, the inside length of the 5.5-foot bed is approximately 67.1 inches (that's about 5.59 feet). This means you have a little over 5 and a half feet of space from the front of the bed to the tailgate. Keep in mind that this measurement is usually taken at the floor of the bed.
- Inside Width: The width is important for fitting wider items. The 2020 F-150's 5.5-foot bed offers a width of around 77.6 inches at the top of the bed (the widest point) and approximately 60.2 inches between the wheel wells (the narrowest point). The space between the wheel wells is a crucial measurement, as it dictates how wide your cargo can be without resting on the wheel wells. This means you will need to take this into account when hauling things like sheets of plywood or other wide objects.
- Inside Depth: The depth of the bed, measured from the bed floor to the top of the bed sides, is roughly 21.4 inches. This depth provides a good amount of space to stack items and helps prevent cargo from spilling out. The depth is essential when you want to make sure your items are secure inside. This also allows you to make sure your stuff doesn't go flying out of the back.
These dimensions are fundamental in understanding the 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' bed's capabilities. Always remember to measure your cargo before attempting to load it, to ensure a proper fit. Also, note that these measurements can vary slightly depending on the specific trim level and optional features of your F-150. But, the differences should be minimal. So, make sure you take these numbers and keep them in mind.
How These Dimensions Translate to Real-World Use
So, what does all this mean for your daily life? The 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' bed dimensions are well-suited for a variety of tasks. The length is ideal for carrying common items such as lumber, home improvement supplies, and recreational gear. The width, especially between the wheel wells, is often the limiting factor. But it’s still ample for most everyday needs.
- Construction Materials: The bed can easily accommodate standard 4x8 sheets of plywood or drywall, although they will need to be laid at an angle with the tailgate down. You may need to secure them properly to keep them from sliding out. This is a common task for many F-150 owners. You can also haul shorter lengths without any problems.
- Outdoor Gear: From camping equipment to ATVs and dirt bikes, the 5.5-foot bed can handle a lot of outdoor adventures. For larger items, you might need to leave the tailgate down or use a bed extender. This is still a very practical bed for hauling stuff. Don't worry, you can make it work.
- Everyday Hauling: Groceries, tools, luggage, and other everyday items are no problem for this bed. The depth of the bed helps keep things contained, and the overall size is perfect for running errands or making quick trips to the hardware store. It is extremely practical for daily use.
Tailgate Considerations: Remember that the tailgate plays a significant role in expanding your cargo capacity. Lowering the tailgate increases the overall length of the bed, allowing you to carry longer items. The tailgate also doubles as a convenient workspace or seating area when you're on the job site or enjoying the outdoors. And it is very easy to lower and put back up. That's a huge plus! Be sure to take this into consideration when you are planning to load your truck bed. Also, consider the weight capacity of your tailgate, especially when using it as a work surface or loading heavy items.
Comparing the 5.5' Bed to Other F-150 Bed Sizes
Let's put the 2020 Ford F-150 5.5' bed dimensions in perspective by comparing it to the other bed sizes available for the F-150. The F-150 typically offers three bed options:
- 5.5-foot Bed: As discussed, this is the most compact option, balancing cargo capacity with maneuverability. It is a very good compromise. Perfect for those who need a practical bed but want a shorter overall truck length.
- 6.5-foot Bed: This bed offers a significant increase in cargo space, making it a better choice for those who frequently haul larger items. The extra foot makes a big difference. It is still relatively easy to maneuver and park. It is a bit longer, so take that into consideration.
- 8-foot Bed: The longest bed option, providing maximum cargo capacity. Ideal for commercial use or those who often haul large, bulky items. It does make the truck much longer, which can be challenging to park or navigate in tight spaces. Make sure this is right for you before purchasing.
Comparison Table: Here's a quick comparison to give you a clearer picture:
| Feature | 5.5-foot Bed | 6.5-foot Bed | 8-foot Bed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside Length | ~67.1 inches | ~78.9 inches | ~97.6 inches |
| Inside Width | ~77.6 inches / 60.2 |