Choosing the right pickup is easier when you fully understand Ram 1500 truck bed dimensions. Whether you’re hauling work equipment, home renovation materials, or camping gear, the bed size you choose directly impacts convenience, performance, and daily usability. This guide breaks down every Ram 1500 bed option in a clear, friendly way so you can make the right decision with confidence.
Ram 1500 Truck Bed Dimensions (Complete Overview)
The latest Ram 1500 models generally offer two bed lengths, depending on the cab style you select:
- 5’7” Short Bed
- 6’4” Standard Bed
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
These two options give buyers the flexibility to prioritize passenger space, cargo space, or a balanced combination of both.
Ram 1500 Bed Measurements Chart
| Bed Length | Interior Length | Interior Width | Width Between Wheel Wells | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5’7” Short Bed | ~67.4 in | ~66.4 in | ~51 in | ~53.9 cu ft |
| 6’4” Standard Bed | ~76.3 in | ~66.4 in | ~51 in | ~61.5 cu ft |
Note: Measurements can vary slightly by model year or trim package.
What Bed Sizes Does the Ram 1500 Come With?
1. 5’7” Short Bed (Most Popular Option)
This bed is available on models with the Crew Cab.
Best for:
- City driving
- Daily commuters
- Families
- Light hauling
Pros:
✓ Easy to maneuver
✓ Easier parking
✓ Compatible with Crew Cab for max passenger room
Cons:
✗ Limited space for long construction materials
✗ Lower cargo volume
2. 6’4” Standard Bed (Work-Friendly Size)
This bed can be paired with the Quad Cab or Crew Cab, depending on trim.
Best for:
- Contractors
- Landscapers
- Weekend DIYers
- Hauling tools, equipment, and building materials
Pros:
✓ More cargo volume
✓ Fits longer items like lumber and ladders
✓ Better for jobsite use
Cons:
✗ Slightly harder to park
✗ Longer turning radius
Ram 1500 Bed Dimensions vs. Ram 1500 Classic
Many buyers confuse the current Ram 1500 with the Ram 1500 Classic (the previous-generation truck still sold as a budget option).
Here’s a quick comparison:
Ram 1500 (New Generation)
- 5’7” bed
- 6’4” bed
- Modern interior
- Upgraded suspension
- Available Multifunction Tailgate
Ram 1500 Classic
- 5’7” bed
- 6’4” bed
- Slightly different width and depth
- Simpler tech and interior
Although the dimensions are similar, the new-generation Ram 1500 beds generally offer better cargo management, improved materials, and more tie-down options.
How Big Is the Ram 1500 Bed? (Breakdown of Every Measurement)
To help you visualize the space more easily, here’s what you can expect inside both bed sizes:
1. Bed Length
- Short Bed: 67.4 inches
- Standard Bed: 76.3 inches
2. Bed Width
- Sidewall to sidewall: 66.4 inches
- Wheel-well clearance: ~51 inches
This means a 4×8 sheet of plywood fits above the wheel wells, but not between them.
3. Bed Depth
- Average depth: 21–22 inches depending on trim
4. Cargo Volume
- Short Bed: ~53.9 cu ft
- Standard Bed: ~61.5 cu ft
For more background on what pickup trucks are and how bed sizing works in the industry, you can read the Pickup Truck overview on Wikipedia.org (external authority link as required).
People Also Ask: Most Common Questions About Ram 1500 Beds
Does the Ram 1500 come with an 8-foot long bed?
No. The Ram 1500 (half-ton model) does not offer an 8-foot bed.
The 8-foot bed is only available on Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 heavy-duty trucks.
Can a Ram 1500 fit a 4×8 sheet of plywood?
Yes—but not flat between the wheel wells.
The plywood will sit:
- Flat above the wheel wells, or
- Angled slightly with the tailgate closed on the 6’4” bed
- Flat with the tailgate down on the 5’7” bed
Be sure to use ratchet straps for safe securing.
What bed size is best for towing with a Ram 1500?
Both beds tow well, but for the best payload stability:
- 6’4” Standard Bed is typically recommended
- Provides better weight distribution
- Helps balance trailer tongue weight
How do I know which bed my Ram 1500 has?
You can determine your truck bed size by:
- Checking the window sticker
- Measuring the inside length using a tape measure
- Checking your owner’s manual
- Looking up your VIN on the Ram website
Is the Ram 1500 bed wider than competitors?
The Ram 1500’s 66.4-inch width is comparable to competitors like:
- Ford F-150
- Chevy Silverado
- GMC Sierra
Ram’s wheel-well width (~51 inches) is also industry standard.
Comparing Bed Sizes: Short Bed vs. Standard Bed
Here’s a quick infographic-style comparison to help you choose the right one:
5’7” Short Bed
Pros
✓ Easier to park
✓ Lighter weight (better mpg)
✓ Most popular with Crew Cab
Cons
✗ Smaller cargo volume
✗ Awkward for 8-foot material
6’4” Standard Bed
Pros
✓ Better for hauling tools
✓ Fits longer items
✓ Ideal for work use
Cons
✗ Harder to maneuver
✗ Slightly reduced mpg due to weight
Ram 1500 Cargo Management Features That Change Usability
The bed dimensions only tell part of the story. Ram adds several features that increase overall usability.
1. RamBox Cargo Management System
Available on select trims, the RamBox adds:
- Waterproof lockable storage
- Built-in lighting
- 115-volt outlet
- Drain plugs (usable as coolers)
2. Multifunction Tailgate
This tailgate opens:
- Split 60/40 swing-out style, or
- Traditional drop-down
It improves access to the bed and makes loading heavy items easier.
3. Tie-Down Hooks
The Ram 1500 offers:
- Up to 12 tie-down points
- Adjustable cargo rails depending on trim
4. Bed Lighting
LED bed lights help when loading gear at night.
5. Spray-In or Drop-In Bedliners
Bedliners protect your truck from:
- Scratches
- Rust
- Weather damage
Both bed sizes benefit from a liner, especially for jobsite use.
Ram 1500 Bed Dimensions vs. Competitors
Ram 1500 vs Ford F-150
- F-150 offers more bed configurations (5.5 ft, 6.5 ft, 8 ft)
- Ram offers better ride quality due to coil-spring suspension
Ram 1500 vs Chevy Silverado 1500
- Silverado offers three beds (Short/Standard/Long)
- Ram has a slightly wider interior bed width
Ram 1500 vs Toyota Tundra
- Tundra is close in dimensions
- Ram’s MultiFunction tailgate and RamBox are unique advantages
Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Ram 1500 Truck Bed
If you’re adding accessories like a tonneau cover or toolbox, measure your bed using this quick guide:
1. Gather Tools
- 120-inch tape measure
- Notepad
- Marker (optional)
2. Measure Bed Length
Start at the bulkhead (front of bed) and measure to the inside edge of the tailgate.
3. Measure Width
Measure:
- Sidewall to sidewall
- Between wheel wells
4. Measure Depth
From the floor to the top of the bed rails.
5. Record All Measurements
Even a 1-inch difference matters when buying accessories.
Real-World Use Cases: Which Bed Size Should You Choose?
For Contractors
6’4” Standard Bed
Perfect for ladders, lumber, tool boxes, and work supplies.
For Families
5’7” Short Bed
Best paired with a Crew Cab for maximum passenger space.
For Weekenders & DIYers
Either bed works, but the 6’4” bed offers more flexibility for hauling home improvement materials.
For Towing
While both sizes tow well, the standard bed provides slightly better weight balance.
Conclusion
Understanding Ram 1500 truck bed dimensions helps you choose the perfect pickup for your lifestyle—whether you’re hauling gear, loading tools, towing trailers, or driving your family around town. With two smart bed sizes, Ram offers something for every driver. If this guide helped you, feel free to share it on your social media so others can choose the right Ram 1500 bed too!
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