Ford trucks are known for being a workhorse – and there is a good bet you purchased one in part due to its hauling capacity. When it comes to making the most out of your Ford truck bed, hauling and cargo solutions are key.
Whether you are a seasoned Ford truck owner, or you’ve only recently taken ownership of your new truck, there are plenty of ways to optimise your truck bed for maximum efficiency, and cargo security. Whether you use your truck for work or play, having a well-equipped truck bed can make all the difference in maximising its utility.
From heavy-duty tie-downs to custom cargo organisers, there are plenty of options available to help you secure and organise your gear. By investing in the right hauling and cargo solutions, you can ensure that everything stays in place during transit and is easily accessible when you reach your destination.
Understanding Your Ford Truck Bed
The first thing you need to do is have an understanding of the size and capacity of your truck bed, as well as your tailgate options. These two factors will play a large role in what you can carry on your truck.
Size and Capacity: Knowing your truck bed’s dimensions (length, width, and depth) and payload capacity (weight limit) is essential. Ford offers a variety of truck bed configurations on their models, so you should check your owner’s manual or Ford’s website for specific details.
Tailgate Options: Tailgates come in different styles, including bi-fold and tailgate steps. Understanding your tailgate’s functionality will influence how you load and unload cargo.
Having the Right Gear
If you have only recently gotten yourself a Ford truck, you are possibly getting used to all the additions and gear that you can purchase to use. If you are planning on carrying cargo regularly, there are some items that will come in handy.
Bed Liners: Protect your truck bed from scratches, dents, and rust with a bed liner. You can consider spray-in liners for a durable, low-maintenance option or rubber mats for a more budget-friendly choice.
Tonneau Covers: Keep your cargo protected from the elements and prying eyes with a tonneau cover. Options include hardcovers for maximum security, softcovers for easy access, and retractable covers for versatility.
Tie-Downs and Cargo Anchors: Secure your cargo with a proper tie-down system. Utilise Ford’s built-in tie-down hooks or invest in a heavy-duty aftermarket system with hooks, D-rings, and straps.
Utilise Bed Extenders
Ford truck beds come in various sizes to accommodate different hauling needs. However, there may be occasions when you need to transport longer items that exceed the bed’s length. In these cases, bed extenders are an invaluable accessory.
These devices attach to the end of the truck bed, providing additional support and space for carrying oversized cargo such as timber, pipes, or ladders. By extending the usable length of your truck bed, you can transport long items securely without worrying about them protruding dangerously from the vehicle.
Of course, if you are still in the purchasing phase, we recommend that you consider what items you may carry to ensure your truck meets your size needs.
Consider Cargo Management Systems
Keeping your cargo organised and secure within the truck bed is vital to prevent damage as well as to optimise space utilisation. Cargo management systems, such as adjustable tie-downs, cargo dividers, and storage bins, help you arrange your belongings efficiently.
Adjustable tie-downs allow you to secure items of different sizes firmly, minimising shifting during transit while cargo dividers create separate compartments within the truck bed, enabling you to segregate various types of cargo and prevent them from mixing or sliding around.
Specialty Racks and Accessories
Depending on your specific hauling needs, there is a range of specialty racks and accessories available to increase the functionality of your Ford truck bed. For outdoor enthusiasts, bike racks, kayak carriers, and roof-mounted cargo boxes offer convenient solutions for transporting recreational gear while contractors and tradies may benefit from ladder racks, toolboxes, and utility shelves, which provide dedicated storage space for work equipment and tools.
By customising your truck bed with these specialised accessories, you can tailor its capabilities to suit your lifestyle or profession effectively.
Loading and Unloading Tips
Do you know how to load and unload your truck so as not to damage your truck or overload it, while keeping yourself safe? This is essential knowledge if you plan on using your Ford truck for hauling items, whether it be across the city or across the country.
Weight Distribution: You need to distribute weight evenly across the bed to prevent axle overloading and maintain optimal handling. Place heavier items closer to the cab and lighter items towards the tailgate.
Packing Techniques: Maximise the bed space by utilising stacking techniques and packing boxes tightly. Consider using a cargo net or bungee cords to secure loose items.
Loading and Unloading Aids: Protect your back and make loading and unloading easier with ramps, bed extenders, or hoist systems. Having a second person to help you load and unload can also make everything much easier.
Loading a Ford Truck isn’t too dissimilar in process to loading a moving truck. Consider where each piece of cargo is going to go before you start loading for safer driving, and better weight distribution.
Additional Installations for More Efficiency
Toolbox Integration: If you want to have your tools and recovery gear easy to reach, consider installing an attached toolbox. Choose a toolbox that seamlessly integrates with your truck bed and doesn’t obstruct loading space.
Ford Truck Bed Accessories: Ford offers a vast selection of bed accessories, including bed dividers, cargo organisers, and under-bed storage units. Explore these options to customise your bed for your specific hauling needs.
By following these tips and tricks, you can transform your Ford truck bed into a hauling powerhouse, ready to conquer any task or adventure you throw its way. Remember, safety is paramount. Always secure your cargo properly and adhere to weight limits to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Are you looking to purchase a new Ford Truck, or in the market for parts for your Ford, GMC, or Chevrolet? At F Trucks WA, we’re not just about boosting performance – we’re also your go-to source for genuine and aftermarket spare parts. We can help you find the right hauling and cargo solutions for your Ford Truck.
