How to Find Your Perfect Pickup Truck
Pickup trucks are the Swiss Army knives of the road, offering unmatched versatility and rugged appeal. But that versatility can also present a daunting challenge. With a dizzying array of options available for each vehicle, finding the perfect fit can feel like navigating a maze. Fear not! We're here to help. We've curated a list of essential factors to consider so your journey to finding the ideal flatbed truck is smooth, stress-free and ultimately rewarding.
Find the Right Size Truck for You and Your Budget
While you might think you’ll be okay buying any flatbed truck, things aren’t that simple. You’ll have to decide between heavy-duty, full-size, midsize and compact trucks based on your needs, lifestyle and where you live. For example, you won’t want to purchase a compact truck if you know you’ll be regularly towing over 12,000 pounds or putting over 3,000 pounds of cargo in your flatbed. Conversely, if you live in a major metropolitan area, you’ll want to avoid heavy-duty pickup trucks, as they’ll make navigating the streets incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Plus, the size of your truck will directly affect how much you’ll be spending, and this could vary greatly between barebones work truck (WT) models and top-of-the-line heavy-duty models packed with luxurious accessories.
Here are some examples:
Which Pickup Cab Size Fits Your Lifestyle?
When it comes to flatbed trucks, what you’ll be using your truck for will be the deciding factor for selecting the cab size that’s right for you. When you step inside the dealership, there are generally going to be three cab sizes to choose from: regular cabs, extended cabs and crew cabs.
- - Regular cabs represent the smallest among the three options available, typically devoid of interior features as they are commonly meant for WT models intended for utility rather than daily commuting. Regular cabs offer sufficient space to comfortably seat 2-3 individuals in a single row of seats, with minimal (if any) storage capacity.
- - Extended cabs resemble regular truck cabs but include a small row of seats behind the first row. While there may be slightly more room up front, back seat passengers will likely find themselves uncomfortable, particularly during longer drives.
- - Crew cabs represent the largest and most comfortable option for pickup trucks. More of a category than simply a cab size, the term "crew cab" denotes the largest available cab size for pickup trucks. Inside this cab, you'll discover ample legroom, features and storage space, making it ideal for use as a daily driver. However, it's important to note that crew cabs tend to be the most expensive option available.
Also, you’re going to want to keep in mind that different companies have different names for each of these cab sizes. Click here to see cab names from different manufacturers.
Bed Size Is a Big Factor
Similar to the previous section, the intended use of your flatbed will play a significant role in determining whether you prefer a short, standard or long truck bed. Opting for a short truck bed means sacrificing carrying capacity for enhanced maneuverability, making it ideal for urban dwellers or those transporting everyday cargo. Standard truck bed sizes offer a balanced option — neither too large nor too small — perfect for individuals handling typical cargo loads and occasional heavier items. Lastly, long truck beds are well-suited for pickups transporting oversized hauls. Plus, flatbed trucks equipped with long beds typically boast more powerful engines and increased torque to handle the additional weight.
Time to Talk About Engines (The Fun Part)
Regardless of your final choice, most pickup trucks offer two or more engine options for you to consider. We understand that some of you may adhere strictly to the tradition of having a V8 under the hood of your flatbed. We completely understand. But, if you're open to exploring other options, you'll be able to find pickup trucks with four- and six-cylinder engines able to deliver ample power for your needs. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences and budget. And, if you prefer full-size flatbed trucks, you're in luck because you'll have a wide range of options when it comes to your engine. Additionally, some models of pickup trucks may offer the option of a diesel engine. It's also important to remember that while diesel engines offer certain benefits, such as fuel efficiency and towing capability, they incur higher fueling and maintenance costs over time.