Can A Golf Cart Fit In A Truck Bed? Find Out!

Yes, a golf cart can often fit in a truck bed. Many golf carts, especially two-seater models, will fit in a standard or long truck bed. However, fitting a golf cart in a truck bed depends on key factors. These include the size of your golf cart and the length of your truck bed. Hauling bigger carts like four-seaters is harder. This guide will show you what you need to know. We will help you figure out if your golf cart and truck are a match.

Figuring Out Golf Cart Sizes

Knowing your golf cart’s size is the first step. Golf carts come in many shapes and sizes. They are not all the same. Here are the common types and their usual measurements. These are important for hauling.

Golf Cart Dimensions for Truck Bed

You must measure your golf cart. Get its length, width, and height. The length is the most critical part for truck beds. The width matters for side clearance. Height matters for overhead obstacles.

Length: This is from the front bumper to the rear bumper.
Width: This is from the widest part of the cart. This is usually the rear wheels.
Height: This is from the ground to the top of the roof.

Here are some standard golf cart measurements for transport:

Table: Common Golf Cart Dimensions (Approximate)

Cart Type	Length (inches)	Width (inches)	Height (inches)	Weight (lbs)
2-Seater	90 – 96	46 – 48	68 – 72	900 – 1000
4-Seater	108 – 115	46 – 48	68 – 72	1000 – 1200
6-Seater	135 – 145	46 – 48	68 – 72	1200 – 1400
Utility/Work	90 – 120	48 – 50	70 – 75	1100 – 1500

These are average numbers. Your cart might be slightly different. Always measure your own golf cart. This gives you the best data.

Truck Bed Sizes: A Key Factor

The size of your truck bed is just as important. Trucks have different bed lengths. A short bed is very different from a long bed. The truck bed size needed for a golf cart depends on the cart.

Common Truck Bed Lengths

Truck beds come in a few common sizes. Here are the rough lengths:

Short Bed: Often around 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 8 inches (65-68 inches).
Standard/Regular Bed: Around 6 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 9 inches (76-81 inches).
Long Bed: Often 8 feet (96 inches).

You can see that a standard two-seater golf cart (90-96 inches long) will often be longer than most short beds. It might even be longer than some standard beds. This means the tailgate will need to be down.

Hauling Golf Cart in Short Bed Truck

Hauling a golf cart in a short bed truck is hard. Most golf carts are longer than a short bed. If you have a short bed, your golf cart will stick out. The tailgate must be down. This adds extra length. Even with the tailgate down, some carts might be too long. This creates a big overhang.

Tailgate Down: This is a must for almost any golf cart in a short bed. The tailgate adds about 2 feet of length.
Overhang: A significant part of the golf cart will hang past the tailgate. You must mark this with a red flag or light. This is for safety and legal reasons.
Weight Balance: Too much weight hanging off the back can be risky. It can make the truck less stable.

While possible, it is not ideal for long trips. It is better for short hauls.

Mid-Size Truck Golf Cart Hauling

Mid-size trucks include models like the Toyota Tacoma or Ford Ranger. Hauling a golf cart in a mid-size truck is usually very challenging. These trucks have smaller beds. Their payload capacity is also lower.

Bed Length: Mid-size truck beds are often short beds. Some might have a slightly longer option.
Weight Limits: Golf carts can weigh 900-1200 pounds or more. Many mid-size trucks have payload limits around 1200-1600 pounds. This leaves little room for people or gear.
Fit Issues: Even a two-seater golf cart often extends far past the tailgate. A four-seater is almost impossible to carry safely in a mid-size truck bed.

For mid-size trucks, a trailer is often a better choice.

Two-Seater Golf Carts: The Easier Haul

Two-seater golf carts are the most common. They are also the easiest to transport. Their golf cart length for a pickup truck usually fits well.

A typical two-seater golf cart is 90-96 inches long.

Long Bed (8 feet or 96 inches): A two-seater golf cart will often fit perfectly. The tailgate can stay up. This is the safest way to haul.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78 inches): The golf cart will be too long. The tailgate must be down. About 12-18 inches of the cart will extend past the bed. This is usually manageable.
Short Bed (5.5 feet or 66 inches): The golf cart will extend quite a bit. It might hang off 24-30 inches. The tailgate must be down. Extra care is needed.

Even with the tailgate down, make sure the cart’s wheels are fully on the truck bed. This helps spread the weight. It also makes the ride smoother.

Will a 4-Seater Golf Cart Fit in a Pickup Truck?

This is a common question. Will a 4-seater golf cart fit in a pickup truck? The direct answer is: sometimes, but it’s much harder. It almost always needs a full-size truck with the tailgate down.

A 4-seater golf cart is usually 108-115 inches long. This is about 9 to 9.5 feet.

Long Bed (8 feet or 96 inches): With the tailgate down, an 8-foot bed becomes about 10 feet long. This is just enough for a 4-seater cart. The cart will still hang out a bit.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78 inches): Even with the tailgate down, a 4-seater is usually too long. The tailgate adds about 2 feet, making the bed around 8.5 feet. This is still shorter than most 4-seaters. A large part of the cart would hang out. This is not safe.
Short Bed (5.5 feet or 66 inches): A 4-seater golf cart will definitely not fit in a short bed. It would hang off way too much. It would be very dangerous.

Special Cases for 4-Seaters

Some people use bed extenders. These are metal frames that fit into the truck’s hitch receiver. They stick out the back. They give more support to the golf cart. This can make hauling a 4-seater in a long or standard bed safer. But, this still adds to the overall length of your rig.

For a 4-seater, using a trailer is often the best choice. It is safer and easier to load and unload.

F-150 Golf Cart Fit: A Common Example

Many people drive a Ford F-150. This is a very popular truck. So, questions about F-150 golf cart fit are common.

The Ford F-150 comes with different bed lengths:

Short Bed (5.5 feet or 67.1 inches): A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate down. It will stick out by about 25-30 inches. A four-seater will not fit safely.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78.9 inches): A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate down. It will stick out by about 12-18 inches. A four-seater will be too long, even with the tailgate down.
Long Bed (8 feet or 97.6 inches): This is the ideal F-150 golf cart fit. A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate up. A four-seater will fit with the tailgate down. It will extend only slightly past the tailgate.

An F-150 with an 8-foot bed is a good choice for golf cart hauling. For other F-150 beds, measure your cart and truck carefully.

Checking Truck Weight Capacity for Golf Cart

Before you load your golf cart, check your truck’s weight limits. This is very important. The golf cart weight capacity for a truck bed is known as “payload capacity.”

Locating Payload Capacity

Your truck’s payload capacity is usually found:

On a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.
In your truck’s owner’s manual.

This number tells you how much weight your truck can carry. This includes passengers, cargo, and the golf cart.

Example: If your F-150 has a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds. And your golf cart weighs 1,000 pounds. You can carry 800 more pounds. This includes you, your passengers, and any other gear.
Important: Do not go over this limit. Overloading can damage your truck. It can also make driving unsafe. It can strain the suspension, tires, and brakes.

Most two-seater golf carts weigh 900-1000 pounds. Four-seaters weigh 1000-1200 pounds. Make sure your truck can handle this weight. Especially if you plan to carry other things too.

Loading Golf Cart Into Truck Bed Safely

Loading a golf cart into a truck bed safely is a big concern. It can be dangerous if not done right. Follow these steps for a safe load.

1. Get Good Ramps

You will need strong ramps. These ramps must be rated for your golf cart’s weight. They should also be long enough.

Ramp Material: Aluminum ramps are light and strong. Steel ramps are strong but heavy.
Ramp Length: Longer ramps make the angle less steep. This is safer. A good rule of thumb is 7-8 feet for a standard truck. Maybe even 10 feet for higher trucks.
Ramp Width: Make sure the ramps are wide enough for your golf cart’s tires.

2. Prepare Your Truck

Park on Level Ground: Choose a flat, firm surface. This makes the truck stable.
Engage Parking Brake: Set your truck’s parking brake firmly.
Block Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the truck’s rear tires. This stops the truck from rolling.
Lower Tailgate: If needed, lower your tailgate. Make sure it is fully open and secure.
Secure Ramps: Attach the ramps to the tailgate or truck bed. They should not slip. Many ramps have safety straps or hooks.

3. Loading the Golf Cart

This is the riskiest part.

Drive Slowly and Straight: Center the golf cart on the ramps. Drive very slowly. Keep the steering wheel straight.
Spotter: Have someone watch from a safe spot. They can guide you. They can tell you if you are off track.
Engine Off: Turn off the golf cart’s engine once it’s fully in the bed. Put it in park or neutral. Set the parking brake.
Electric Carts: For electric carts, make sure the power is off. Set the parking brake.

Some people prefer to use a winch to pull the golf cart up the ramps. This avoids driving it. It is often safer.

4. Securing the Golf Cart

This step is critical for travel.

Tie-Down Straps: Use at least four heavy-duty ratchet straps. Connect them to strong points on the golf cart. Connect them to strong points in your truck bed.
Anchor Points: Look for frame rails or strong tie-down points on the golf cart. For the truck, use built-in anchor points in the bed.
Cross Strapping: Run the straps in an “X” pattern. For example, connect the front left of the cart to the truck’s rear right. And the front right to the truck’s rear left. This pulls the cart down and forward.
Wheel Chocks: Use wheel chocks to stop the wheels from moving. Place them firmly against the tires.
Tighten Straps: Pull all straps very tight. The golf cart should not move at all. Wiggle the cart to check. If it moves, tighten more. Recheck straps after a short drive. They can loosen.

Before You Drive: Pre-Transport Checks

Once the golf cart is loaded and secured, do a final check.

Clearance: Check that no part of the golf cart hits the truck’s cab.
Overhang Visibility: If the cart hangs past the tailgate, attach a red flag. This is often required by law. For night driving, use a red light.
Loose Items: Remove anything loose from the golf cart. This includes golf clubs, bags, or other items. They could fall out during travel.
Battery/Fuel: If it’s an electric cart, disconnect the main battery if safe. If it’s a gas cart, ensure the fuel cap is tight. Check for leaks.
Tires: Check the tire pressure on both the truck and the golf cart. Proper pressure helps with stability.

Driving with a Loaded Golf Cart

Driving with a heavy load is different. Be extra careful.

Go Slow: Drive slower than usual. Especially around turns.
Wide Turns: Take turns wider. Your truck is now longer. The golf cart sticking out needs more room.
Braking Distance: Your truck will need more distance to stop. Give yourself plenty of room.
Rough Roads: Avoid bumpy roads if possible. Bumps can loosen straps. They can also damage the truck or cart.
Check Straps Often: Stop after a short drive. Check all your tie-down straps. Tighten any that are loose. Do this throughout your trip.

Other Ways to Haul a Golf Cart

If loading into a truck bed seems too hard, there are other choices.

Using a Trailer

This is often the safest and easiest way.

Golf Cart Trailer: These trailers are made for golf carts. They have a ramp. They are usually single-axle.
Utility Trailer: A small utility trailer can also work. Make sure it has enough capacity for the golf cart’s weight.
Advantages:
- Easier to load and unload.
- No overhang worries.
- Less strain on your truck’s suspension.
- Can carry other gear easily.
Disadvantages:
- Need a trailer hitch on your truck.
- Trailer rental or purchase cost.
- Towing can be harder than just carrying in the bed.
- More fuel use.

Professional Transport Service

If you do not want to do it yourself, hire someone.

Pros:
- No work for you.
- They have the right tools and insurance.
- Good for long distances.
Cons:
- Can be expensive.

Choosing the Right Truck for Hauling Golf Carts

For regular golf cart hauling, choose the right truck.

Full-Size Pickup: Trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are best. They offer enough payload capacity. They also have longer bed options.
Long Bed is Best: If you plan to haul a golf cart often, a truck with an 8-foot bed is ideal. It allows for safe transport with the tailgate up for 2-seaters. It also works best for 4-seaters with the tailgate down.
Payload Capacity: Always check this. A truck with a higher payload rating is always better for hauling.
V8 Engine: A stronger engine makes hauling easier. It handles the extra weight better.

While a mid-size truck might seem tempting, it is rarely good for golf cart hauling. The bed size and payload limits are too restrictive.

Cost Aspects of Hauling

Think about the costs involved in hauling a golf cart.

Fuel: Your truck will use more fuel when carrying a golf cart. The extra weight makes the engine work harder. It makes your truck less aerodynamic.
Ramps: Good ramps can cost $150 to $400 or more. This is a one-time cost.
Tie-Down Straps: High-quality straps cost $30 to $100 for a set. These are vital for safety.
Bed Extender (if needed): A bed extender can cost $100 to $250.
Trailer Rental: Renting a utility trailer can cost $30 to $60 per day.
Trailer Purchase: Buying a new golf cart trailer can be $1,000 to $2,500. Used ones are cheaper.

Factor these costs into your transport plans.

Final Thoughts on Fitting a Golf Cart

Fitting a golf cart in a truck bed is possible. It needs careful planning and good preparation. Always measure your golf cart first. Then, measure your truck bed. Check your truck’s payload capacity. Invest in proper ramps and tie-down straps.

Remember, safety comes first. Do not try to carry a cart that is too big or too heavy for your truck. If in doubt, use a trailer. Or, hire a professional. With the right setup, you can safely haul your golf cart to the course or camping spot. Enjoy your ride!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the average golf cart length pickup truck owners should know?

The average 2-seater golf cart is 90-96 inches long. A 4-seater is about 108-115 inches long.

Q2: Will a 4-seater golf cart fit in a short bed truck?

No, a 4-seater golf cart will not safely fit in a short bed truck. It is much too long. It will hang out too far.

Q3: What truck bed size needed for golf cart transport?

A long bed (8 feet) is best for any golf cart. A standard bed (6.5 feet) works for 2-seaters with the tailgate down. Short beds are often too small.

Q4: How do I know my truck’s golf cart weight capacity truck bed rating?

Look for a sticker on your truck’s driver’s side door jamb. Or check your owner’s manual. This number is your truck’s “payload capacity.”

Q5: Is hauling golf cart in short bed truck safe?

It can be safe for short distances if the cart is a 2-seater and properly secured. But, it is not ideal. It has a big overhang. A long bed is safer.

Q6: Can I use regular wood planks as ramps?

No, it is not recommended. Wood planks can break. They can also slip. Always use proper metal ramps rated for your golf cart’s weight.

Q7: Do I need a red flag for overhang?

Yes, if your golf cart extends past your truck bed by more than 4 feet, a red flag is usually needed. This is a safety rule. Check local laws.

Q8: How many tie-down straps do I need for loading golf cart into truck bed safely?

You need at least four heavy-duty ratchet straps. Use them in an “X” pattern. This holds the cart firmly in place.

Q9: Is a mid-size truck golf cart hauling a good idea?

Generally, no. Mid-size trucks have smaller beds and lower payload limits. They are usually not strong enough or big enough for golf carts.

Q10: Can I just drive the golf cart up the ramps fast?

No, never. Drive the golf cart very slowly and steadily up the ramps. Too much speed can cause the cart to overshoot or crash.

Can A Golf Cart Fit In A Truck Bed? Find Out!

Yes, a golf cart can often fit in a truck bed. Many golf carts, especially two-seater models, will fit in a standard or long truck bed. Hauling bigger carts like four-seaters is harder. The fit depends on your golf cart’s size and your truck bed’s length. This guide will show you what you need to know. We will help you figure out if your golf cart and truck are a match.

Figuring Out Golf Cart Sizes

Knowing your golf cart’s size is the first step. Golf carts come in many shapes. They are not all the same. Here are common types and their usual measurements. These are important for hauling.

Golf Cart Dimensions for Truck Bed

You must measure your golf cart. Get its length, width, and height. The length is the most critical for truck beds. The width matters for side clearance. Height matters for overhead obstacles.

Length: This is from the front bumper to the rear bumper.
Width: This is from the widest part of the cart. This is usually the rear wheels.
Height: This is from the ground to the top of the roof.

Here are some standard golf cart measurements for transport:

Table: Common Golf Cart Dimensions (Approximate)

Cart Type	Length (inches)	Width (inches)	Height (inches)	Weight (lbs)
2-Seater	90 – 96	46 – 48	68 – 72	900 – 1000
4-Seater	108 – 115	46 – 48	68 – 72	1000 – 1200
6-Seater	135 – 145	46 – 48	68 – 72	1200 – 1400
Utility/Work	90 – 120	48 – 50	70 – 75	1100 – 1500

These are average numbers. Your cart might be slightly different. Always measure your own golf cart. This gives you the best data.

Truck Bed Sizes: A Key Factor

The size of your truck bed is very important. Trucks have different bed lengths. A short bed is very different from a long bed. The truck bed size needed for a golf cart depends on the cart.

Common Truck Bed Lengths

Truck beds come in a few common sizes. Here are the rough lengths:

Short Bed: Often around 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 8 inches (65-68 inches).
Standard/Regular Bed: Around 6 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 9 inches (76-81 inches).
Long Bed: Often 8 feet (96 inches).

Hauling Golf Cart in Short Bed Truck

Tailgate Down: This is a must for almost any golf cart in a short bed. The tailgate adds about 2 feet of length.
Overhang: A significant part of the golf cart will hang past the tailgate. You must mark this with a red flag or light. This is for safety and legal reasons.
Weight Balance: Too much weight hanging off the back can be risky. It can make the truck less stable.

While possible, it is not ideal for long trips. It is better for short hauls.

Mid-Size Truck Golf Cart Hauling

Bed Length: Mid-size truck beds are often short beds. Some might have a slightly longer option.
Weight Limits: Golf carts can weigh 900-1200 pounds or more. Many mid-size trucks have payload limits around 1200-1600 pounds. This leaves little room for people or gear.
Fit Issues: Even a two-seater golf cart often extends far past the tailgate. A four-seater is almost impossible to carry safely in a mid-size truck bed.

For mid-size trucks, a trailer is often a better choice.

Two-Seater Golf Carts: The Easier Haul

Two-seater golf carts are the most common. They are also the easiest to transport. Their golf cart length for a pickup truck usually fits well.

A typical two-seater golf cart is 90-96 inches long.

Long Bed (8 feet or 96 inches): A two-seater golf cart will often fit perfectly. The tailgate can stay up. This is the safest way to haul.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78 inches): The golf cart will be too long. The tailgate must be down. About 12-18 inches of the cart will extend past the bed. This is usually manageable.
Short Bed (5.5 feet or 66 inches): The golf cart will extend quite a bit. It might hang off 24-30 inches. The tailgate must be down. Extra care is needed.

Even with the tailgate down, make sure the cart’s wheels are fully on the truck bed. This helps spread the weight. It also makes the ride smoother.

Will a 4-Seater Golf Cart Fit in a Pickup Truck?

This is a common question. Will a 4-seater golf cart fit in a pickup truck? The direct answer is: sometimes, but it’s much harder. It almost always needs a full-size truck with the tailgate down.

A 4-seater golf cart is usually 108-115 inches long. This is about 9 to 9.5 feet.

Long Bed (8 feet or 96 inches): With the tailgate down, an 8-foot bed becomes about 10 feet long. This is just enough for a 4-seater cart. The cart will still hang out a bit.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78 inches): Even with the tailgate down, a 4-seater is usually too long. The tailgate adds about 2 feet, making the bed around 8.5 feet. This is still shorter than most 4-seaters. A large part of the cart would hang out. This is not safe.
Short Bed (5.5 feet or 66 inches): A 4-seater golf cart will definitely not fit in a short bed. It would hang off way too much. It would be very dangerous.

Special Cases for 4-Seaters

For a 4-seater, using a trailer is often the best choice. It is safer and easier to load and unload.

F-150 Golf Cart Fit: A Common Example

Many people drive a Ford F-150. This is a very popular truck. So, questions about F-150 golf cart fit are common.

The Ford F-150 comes with different bed lengths:

Short Bed (5.5 feet or 67.1 inches): A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate down. It will stick out by about 25-30 inches. A four-seater will not fit safely.
Standard Bed (6.5 feet or 78.9 inches): A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate down. It will stick out by about 12-18 inches. A four-seater will be too long, even with the tailgate down.
Long Bed (8 feet or 97.6 inches): This is the ideal F-150 golf cart fit. A two-seater golf cart will fit with the tailgate up. A four-seater will fit with the tailgate down. It will extend only slightly past the tailgate.

An F-150 with an 8-foot bed is a good choice for golf cart hauling. For other F-150 beds, measure your cart and truck carefully.

Checking Truck Weight Capacity for Golf Cart

Before you load your golf cart, check your truck’s weight limits. This is very important. The golf cart weight capacity for a truck bed is known as “payload capacity.”

Locating Payload Capacity

Your truck’s payload capacity is usually found:

On a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.
In your truck’s owner’s manual.

This number tells you how much weight your truck can carry. This includes passengers, cargo, and the golf cart.

Example: If your F-150 has a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds. And your golf cart weighs 1,000 pounds. You can carry 800 more pounds. This includes you, your passengers, and any other gear.
Important: Do not go over this limit. Overloading can damage your truck. It can also make driving unsafe. It can strain the suspension, tires, and brakes.

Most two-seater golf carts weigh 900-1000 pounds. Four-seaters weigh 1000-1200 pounds. Make sure your truck can handle this weight. Especially if you plan to carry other things too.

Loading Golf Cart Into Truck Bed Safely

Loading a golf cart into a truck bed safely is a big concern. It can be dangerous if not done right. Follow these steps for a safe load.

1. Get Good Ramps

You will need strong ramps. These ramps must be rated for your golf cart’s weight. They should also be long enough.

Ramp Material: Aluminum ramps are light and strong. Steel ramps are strong but heavy.
Ramp Length: Longer ramps make the angle less steep. This is safer. A good rule of thumb is 7-8 feet for a standard truck. Maybe even 10 feet for higher trucks.
Ramp Width: Make sure the ramps are wide enough for your golf cart’s tires.

2. Prepare Your Truck

Park on Level Ground: Choose a flat, firm surface. This makes the truck stable.
Engage Parking Brake: Set your truck’s parking brake firmly.
Block Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the truck’s rear tires. This stops the truck from rolling.
Lower Tailgate: If needed, lower your tailgate. Make sure it is fully open and secure.
Secure Ramps: Attach the ramps to the tailgate or truck bed. They should not slip. Many ramps have safety straps or hooks.

3. Loading the Golf Cart

This is the riskiest part.

Drive Slowly and Straight: Center the golf cart on the ramps. Drive very slowly. Keep the steering wheel straight.
Spotter: Have someone watch from a safe spot. They can guide you. They can tell you if you are off track.
Engine Off: Turn off the golf cart’s engine once it’s fully in the bed. Put it in park or neutral. Set the parking brake.
Electric Carts: For electric carts, make sure the power is off. Set the parking brake.

Some people prefer to use a winch to pull the golf cart up the ramps. This avoids driving it. It is often safer.

4. Securing the Golf Cart

This step is critical for travel.

Tie-Down Straps: Use at least four heavy-duty ratchet straps. Connect them to strong points on the golf cart. Connect them to strong points in your truck bed.
Anchor Points: Look for frame rails or strong tie-down points on the golf cart. For the truck, use built-in anchor points in the bed.
Cross Strapping: Run the straps in an “X” pattern. For example, connect the front left of the cart to the truck’s rear right. And the front right to the truck’s rear left. This pulls the cart down and forward.
Wheel Chocks: Use wheel chocks to stop the wheels from moving. Place them firmly against the tires.
Tighten Straps: Pull all straps very tight. The golf cart should not move at all. Wiggle the cart to check. If it moves, tighten more. Recheck straps after a short drive. They can loosen.

Before You Drive: Pre-Transport Checks

Once the golf cart is loaded and secured, do a final check.

Clearance: Check that no part of the golf cart hits the truck’s cab.
Overhang Visibility: If the cart hangs past the tailgate, attach a red flag. This is often required by law. For night driving, use a red light.
Loose Items: Remove anything loose from the golf cart. This includes golf clubs, bags, or other items. They could fall out during travel.
Battery/Fuel: If it’s an electric cart, disconnect the main battery if safe. If it’s a gas cart, ensure the fuel cap is tight. Check for leaks.
Tires: Check the tire pressure on both the truck and the golf cart. Proper pressure helps with stability.

Driving with a Loaded Golf Cart

Driving with a heavy load is different. Be extra careful.

Go Slow: Drive slower than usual. Especially around turns.
Wide Turns: Take turns wider. Your truck is now longer. The golf cart sticking out needs more room.
Braking Distance: Your truck will need more distance to stop. Give yourself plenty of room.
Rough Roads: Avoid bumpy roads if possible. Bumps can loosen straps. They can also damage the truck or cart.
Check Straps Often: Stop after a short drive. Check all your tie-down straps. Tighten any that are loose. Do this throughout your trip.

Other Ways to Haul a Golf Cart

If loading into a truck bed seems too hard, there are other choices.

Using a Trailer

This is often the safest and easiest way.

Golf Cart Trailer: These trailers are made for golf carts. They have a ramp. They are usually single-axle.
Utility Trailer: A small utility trailer can also work. Make sure it has enough capacity for the golf cart’s weight.
Advantages:
- Easier to load and unload.
- No overhang worries.
- Less strain on your truck’s suspension.
- Can carry other gear easily.
Disadvantages:
- Need a trailer hitch on your truck.
- Trailer rental or purchase cost.
- Towing can be harder than just carrying in the bed.
- More fuel use.

Professional Transport Service

If you do not want to do it yourself, hire someone.

Pros:
- No work for you.
- They have the right tools and insurance.
- Good for long distances.
Cons:
- Can be expensive.

Choosing the Right Truck for Hauling Golf Carts

For regular golf cart hauling, choose the right truck.

Full-Size Pickup: Trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are best. They offer enough payload capacity. They also have longer bed options.
Long Bed is Best: If you plan to haul a golf cart often, a truck with an 8-foot bed is ideal. It allows for safe transport with the tailgate up for 2-seaters. It also works best for 4-seaters with the tailgate down.
Payload Capacity: Always check this. A truck with a higher payload rating is always better for hauling.
V8 Engine: A stronger engine makes hauling easier. It handles the extra weight better.

While a mid-size truck might seem tempting, it is rarely good for golf cart hauling. The bed size and payload limits are too restrictive.

Cost Aspects of Hauling

Think about the costs involved in hauling a golf cart.

Fuel: Your truck will use more fuel when carrying a golf cart. The extra weight makes the engine work harder. It makes your truck less aerodynamic.
Ramps: Good ramps can cost $150 to $400 or more. This is a one-time cost.
Tie-Down Straps: High-quality straps cost $30 to $100 for a set. These are vital for safety.
Bed Extender (if needed): A bed extender can cost $100 to $250.
Trailer Rental: Renting a utility trailer can cost $30 to $60 per day.
Trailer Purchase: Buying a new golf cart trailer can be $1,000 to $2,500. Used ones are cheaper.

Factor these costs into your transport plans.

Final Thoughts on Fitting a Golf Cart

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the average golf cart length pickup truck owners should know?

The average 2-seater golf cart is 90-96 inches long. A 4-seater is about 108-115 inches long.

Q2: Will a 4-seater golf cart fit in a short bed truck?

No, a 4-seater golf cart will not safely fit in a short bed truck. It is much too long. It will hang out too far.

Q3: What truck bed size needed for golf cart transport?

A long bed (8 feet) is best for any golf cart. A standard bed (6.5 feet) works for 2-seaters with the tailgate down. Short beds are often too small.

Q4: How do I know my truck’s golf cart weight capacity truck bed rating?

Look for a sticker on your truck’s driver’s side door jamb. Or check your owner’s manual. This number is your truck’s “payload capacity.”

Q5: Is hauling golf cart in short bed truck safe?

It can be safe for short distances if the cart is a 2-seater and properly secured. But, it is not ideal. It has a big overhang. A long bed is safer.

Q6: Can I use regular wood planks as ramps?

No, it is not recommended. Wood planks can break. They can also slip. Always use proper metal ramps rated for your golf cart’s weight.

Q7: Do I need a red flag for overhang?

Yes, if your golf cart extends past your truck bed by more than 4 feet, a red flag is usually needed. This is a safety rule. Check local laws.

Q8: How many tie-down straps do I need for loading golf cart into truck bed safely?

You need at least four heavy-duty ratchet straps. Use them in an “X” pattern. This holds the cart firmly in place.

Q9: Is a mid-size truck golf cart hauling a good idea?

Generally, no. Mid-size trucks have smaller beds and lower payload limits. They are usually not strong enough or big enough for golf carts.

Q10: Can I just drive the golf cart up the ramps fast?

No, never. Drive the golf cart very slowly and steadily up the ramps. Too much speed can cause the cart to overshoot or crash.