Will a Standard Golf Cart Fit in My Truck?

Transporting a golf cart in your truck can be an easy task, but whether it will fit in the bed of your truck depends on a few factors. A standard golf cart typically measures around 7-8 feet long and 4 feet wide, so it’s essential to check the dimensions of both your truck bed and the golf cart before attempting to load it. In this article, we will guide you through the process of determining if your golf cart will fit, and provide solutions for a tight fit.

1. Measure Your Truck Bed

The first step to determining whether a golf cart will fit in your truck is to measure your truck’s bed. Start by measuring the length of the truck bed from the front of the bed to the tailgate, keeping in mind that the length will vary depending on your truck model (standard, short, or long bed). A standard truck bed is typically between 6 and 7 feet long, while a long bed can be up to 8 feet. Shorter beds will require more creative solutions to accommodate a golf cart.

Next, measure the width of the bed between the wheel wells. The space between the wheel wells is critical, as this is where the golf cart's tires will sit. On most trucks, this width ranges from 48 to 50 inches. Since a typical golf cart is about 48 inches wide, you’ll need to check if it can fit comfortably between the wheel wells.

2. Measure Your Golf Cart

Once you've measured your truck bed, it's time to measure the golf cart itself. A standard golf cart is usually 7 to 8 feet in length and around 4 feet in width. Keep in mind that these dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, model, and whether the cart has additional features like a rear seat or an extended body. The height of the golf cart is also important if you're thinking of using a cover or hauling it with a camper shell on your truck.

To get an accurate measurement, take the length from the front bumper to the back of the cart, and the width from one tire to the other. You should also account for any added length, such as a rear golf bag holder, which might increase the overall length of the cart. Once you have these measurements, you’ll be able to compare them against your truck's bed dimensions.

3. Compare the Dimensions

Now that you have the measurements of both your truck bed and the golf cart, compare them to see if the cart will fit. The width of a standard golf cart is usually 48 inches, which is just about the maximum width that can fit between the wheel wells of most trucks. If your truck bed is wider, you won’t have any issues with fitting the golf cart’s width. However, if the width is close to the maximum, you may have to reposition the cart at a slight angle to fit it properly.

The most significant challenge is usually the length. A standard golf cart can be as long as 8 feet, while a truck bed typically ranges from 6 to 8 feet. If the cart is too long, you will need to consider solutions like removing the tailgate or using a bed extender. If your truck bed is on the shorter side, a bed extender or ramp system can help provide the extra space needed for loading the cart.

4. Consider Solutions for a Tight Fit

If your golf cart is just a little too long or wide for your truck bed, there are several solutions you can consider:

• Remove the Tailgate: If the length of the golf cart exceeds the length of your truck bed, removing the tailgate may provide the extra space you need. Many truck owners choose to remove the tailgate temporarily when hauling large items like golf carts, though you should ensure the cart is secured and that you drive carefully on the road.
• Use a Bed Extender: A bed extender is a popular tool for extending the length of your truck bed. It attaches to the truck’s hitch and gives you an extra few feet of length, which can make a big difference when loading a golf cart. Bed extenders are easy to install and remove and are designed specifically for this type of situation.
• Angle the Cart: If the width is an issue, you can try angling the cart to make it fit. Sometimes, simply adjusting the position of the cart in the truck bed can help make it fit more comfortably.
• Consider a Trailer: If you find that your truck bed is too small to transport your golf cart, you may need to consider using a trailer instead. A small utility trailer can be a great option for transporting golf carts safely and securely.

5. Other Factors to Consider

While the fit of the golf cart in your truck bed is the primary concern, there are a few other factors to keep in mind:

• Weight: Golf carts can be heavy, typically weighing between 600 and 1,000 pounds, depending on the model. Ensure that your truck can handle the weight of the cart, especially if you are adding extra equipment or accessories to the cart. Check your truck's towing capacity and load rating to ensure safe transportation.
• Securing the Cart: Once your golf cart is in the bed of the truck, make sure it is securely fastened using tie-downs or straps. Use strong, reliable straps to prevent the cart from shifting or falling during transit. Consider using a wheel chock to keep the wheels in place and minimize movement.
• Road Safety: Always ensure the golf cart is securely loaded and that it won’t cause an obstruction to your driving visibility. If you’ve removed the tailgate, be especially cautious of the cart’s position on the road.

What is the Best Way to Transport a Golf Cart?

The best way to transport a golf cart depends on the distance, weight of the cart, and your available options. If you're hauling it locally and your truck bed can fit it, using a truck with a bed extender or removing the tailgate can be a simple and effective solution. However, for long distances or more frequent trips, a small utility trailer may be the safest and most convenient option. Always ensure the cart is securely fastened and that it won’t shift during transport.