Can i fit 6 foot luggage in pickup truck

Measure interior cargo length from the bulkhead (behind the cab) to the inside edge of the tailgate. Compare that number to 72 in (1.83 m). Common bed lengths: short ≈ 66 in (1.68 m), standard ≈ 78 in (1.98 m), long ≈ 96 in (2.44 m). If interior length ≥ 72 in, place the case longitudinally; if not, evaluate diagonal options or use the tailgate.

Diagonal check: compute sqrt(length² + usable_width²) and verify it is ≥ 72 in. Typical usable widths: between wheel wells ≈ 50–52 in (1.27–1.32 m), full bed width ≈ 60–66 in (1.52–1.68 m). Example: short bed 66 in with 50 in usable width → diagonal ≈ 82 in, which clears a 72 in case.

Tailgate down adds roughly the tailgate height to usable length (tailgate ≈ 18–22 in / 0.46–0.56 m). A 66 in bed plus a 20 in tailgate gives ~86 in total, so lowering the tailgate is a simple solution when diagonal clearance is tight. Secure any overhang and mark it according to local rules.

Secure the case with two tie-downs (ratchet or cam straps) anchored to factory points; route straps over the load and tighten so there is no forward/backward movement. Check payload rating in the owner’s manual before loading heavy items – a 72 in roller bag typically weighs 15–35 kg empty but can exceed 40 kg when packed. Keep the centre of gravity low by laying the case flat where possible.

If a cover (tonneau) is used, either remove it or confirm it clears the case height; folding rear seats or placing the item inside the cab (if allowed) avoids external overhang. For any rear overhang beyond ~1 m, use a high-visibility flag and confirm local overhang regulations and lighting requirements before driving.

72-In Case: Bed-Length Requirements and Secure Loading

For a 72 in case, choose a cargo bed with an internal usable length ≥78 in (198 cm) to stow the item flat with the tailgate closed; beds 66–77 in (168–198 cm) allow transport with the tailgate lowered and external support; beds <66 in require diagonal placement, rooftop mounting, or a trailer.

Measure twice: measure from the inside face of the bulkhead (cab wall) to the inside edge of the tailgate with the tailgate in the position you intend to use. Record that number in inches and centimeters. Compare the result to 72 in (183 cm) plus any padding or protective coverings you will add.

Securement checklist: (1) Place non‑abrasive padding under the case along contact zones. (2) Attach at least two rated straps (500–1,500 lb working load each) to factory tie‑downs or dedicated anchors; cross straps to prevent rotation. (3) If overhang >12 in, add a second set of straps near the rear for uplift resistance. (4) Use edge protectors to prevent strap cut-through. (5) If item projects beyond 48 in behind the vehicle’s rear bumper, attach a red flag by day and a red light after dark per common regulations.

Speed and handling guidance: maintain reduced speed, avoid sudden braking and sharp turns, and distribute weight so axle loads remain within the vehicle’s GVWR and axle limits. Verify tongue/axle weight limits if using a tailgate extender or trailer.

Legal note: many jurisdictions permit up to 4 ft (48 in) of rear overhang without special permits but require a marker for larger projections; local rules vary–check state or municipal code before departure.

How to measure your bed and tailgate for a 6‑ft suitcase

If the interior bed length is ≥72 inches, a 72‑inch suitcase will lie flat with the tailgate closed.

1. Tools: use a 25′ tape or laser measure, a helper, a pen and paper. Measure to the nearest 0.5 in and record each dimension; do not rely on vehicle model specs alone.

2. Interior length (most critical): measure from the inside face of the bulkhead (where the cab meets the bed) to the inside edge of the closed tailgate at the bed floor. Repeat this measurement at the top-rail line; bed liners, spray-in coatings or floor mats can reduce usable length by 0.5–1.5 in.

3. Tailgate contribution: lower the tailgate and measure its inner depth along the bed floor from the hinge line to the tailgate outer edge. Typical tailgate depths range 18–24 in; add this to the interior floor length to determine usable length with the tailgate down. Verify tailgate will support the weight and whether its hinge area interferes with a flat surface.

4. Width and wheel wells: measure between wheel wells at the floor (common between-wheel widths are 50–54 in on full-size beds). Also measure across the top rails and the opening at the tailgate – a suitcase angled diagonally requires clearance across both dimensions.

5. Diagonal loading to gain inches: measure a diagonal from the front-left inside floor corner (near cab) to the rear-right top edge of the lowered tailgate (and the opposite diagonal). A diagonal can add roughly 3–8 in of effective length depending on bed width; record both diagonals and compare to the suitcase length.

6. Height and cover clearance: measure vertical clearance under any tonneau cover, bed cap or camper shell at center and near rails. Tall suitcases require both floor length and headroom; note any ribs, crossbars or rails that reduce interior height.

7. Clearance allowances and padding: add 1–2 in to the suitcase dimensions for protective padding and to avoid pinch points. If the measured usable length is within 1–3 in of 72 in, plan to angle the case slightly and secure it; if more than 3 in short, do not rely on tailgate closed position unless you can safely support overhang.

8. Safety check and securing: consult the vehicle manual for tailgate load rating. If the item rests partially on the lowered tailgate, distribute load with a board or support, use at least two ratchet straps to anchor to factory tie-downs, and ensure brake lights/plates are visible if rear overhang exceeds legal limits in your area.

Quick final verification: interior floor length, tailgate-down added depth, usable diagonal, width between wheel wells, vertical clearance under any cover, and tailgate load limit – all must be measured and recorded before transport.

How to measure suitcase length including wheels, feet, and extended handle

Measure upright on a flat surface with the wheels resting and the telescoping handle locked fully extended; record two figures: stowed depth (body plus wheels/feet with handle collapsed) and extended length (floor to handle tip).

Procedure

Place the case on a level floor so wheels sit naturally. Use a rigid tape measure or a folding rule. 1) Stowed depth: measure from the outermost front face of the shell to the outermost point of the wheels/feet at the rear; if wheels sit outside the shell, include their full projection. 2) Extended length: measure from the floor to the highest point of the locked handle while the case stands upright on its wheels. 3) Lying-flat depth: lay the case on its back and measure from the wheel outer edge to the opposite face – this is the thickness you’ll need when sliding the case into a flat space.

Clearances and tolerances

Add a margin for protruding trim and manufacturing variance: +1–2 in for stowed depth (small spinners/rollers usually add ~1 in; large fixed wheels up to ~2 in). Telescoping handles commonly extend 14–24 in above the case top; check by measuring fully extended and at each locked position if multiple stages exist. For angled placement allow an extra 2–4 in beyond the measured diagonal.

Record three numbers on the case tag: body depth (shell only), stowed depth (body + wheels/feet), and extended length (floor to handle tip). When comparing to a carrying space, always use the larger of stowed depth or lying-flat depth plus the chosen clearance margin.

Short-bed vs long-bed: which bed lengths accept a 6‑ft suitcase without tailgate down

Direct answer: a cargo bed needs a usable flat-floor length ≥72 in to carry a 6‑ft (72 in) suitcase with the tailgate closed; in practice choose beds with 78 in or 96 in floor length for reliable clearance.

• Short/compact beds (≈60–66 in inner floor) – Won’t hold a 72 in case with the tailgate closed. Wheel-well intrusions and inner tailgate face reduce usable length; only options are tailgate down, a cargo extender, or alternate transport.
• Mid-length / “6‑ft” beds (≈72 in inner floor) – Borderline. A 72 in case will only fit if wheels and handle are within that nominal length and the case sits flush against the bulkhead; many manufacturers list slightly shorter usable lengths, so verify measured floor length before assuming a closed-tailgate fit.
• 6.5‑ft / 78 in beds (≈78 in inner floor) – Reliable. Most 78 in beds accept a 72 in suitcase with handles retracted and minimal interference from wheel wells. Leave a small clearance for ease of loading and tie‑down placement.
• Long / 8‑ft beds (≈96 in inner floor) – Yes. Ample room for a 72 in case without lowering the tailgate; allows additional gear and safer tie‑down options.

Practical notes:

• Measure usable floor length from bulkhead to inner tailgate face; subtract any permanent bed liners, bed caps, or rail hardware that reduce clearance.
• Wheel wells narrow the flat area; if the case must sit between wheel wells, check between-wheel-well width (typically 50–55 in) and consider alternate orientation or a bed extender.
• If interior handle or wheel protrusions push length beyond 72 in, remove or retract the handle and place the case with wheels toward the tailgate to save a few inches.
• Secure the case with ratchet straps to the factory tie-downs; if tailgate must be down, use a bed extender or hitch-mounted cargo carrier to avoid unsupported overhang and legal/visibility issues.

Tailgate-down transport: securing, weight limits, and legal overhang rules

Secure any load that extends beyond the open tailgate with a minimum of two rated ratchet straps anchored to factory bed points and a brightly colored flag attached to the rearmost point of the cargo.

Strap and anchor guidance: use two straps placed diagonally from the cargo toward opposite bed anchor points to create compression; add a third strap along the centerline as a backup. Select straps whose Working Load Limit (WLL) combined exceeds the cargo weight by at least 2x; common choices are straps with 1,000–3,000 lb WLL each for typical large suitcases and gear. Protect edges with rubber or leather edge protectors to prevent webbing abrasion. Install a rear support (bed extender, sawhorse, or purpose-made load bracket) if the load cantilevers more than ~12–18 in beyond the gate hinge line; that reduces torque on the gate and on the vehicle frame.

Weight limits and vehicle ratings: check the vehicle door-jamb placard for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and payload capacity; subtract curb weight and all passengers and fluids to determine remaining payload available for cargo. Treat most tailgates as non-structural supports unless the owner’s manual lists a specific tailgate load rating–assume 100–200 lb maximum on the tailgate itself unless the manual states otherwise. If a load’s center of mass sits behind the rear axle, shift heavier items forward into the bed to reduce rear axle load and avoid exceeding rear GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating).

Legal overhang rules

General U.S. practice: rear overhang limits commonly range between 3–4 ft without additional permits; loads extending beyond the legal limit require conspicuous marking (an 18×18 in red or orange flag during daylight and red lights/reflectors at night) and may need local permits for extreme lengths. State DOTs differ–some use measured rear projection from the rear bumper, others from the rear axle–so verify the exact figure with the state DMV or DOT before transport. Commercial regulations and interstate requirements can be more restrictive and may require additional lighting, signage, or permits.

Quick operational checklist

1) Weigh the cargo or estimate conservatively; ensure combined cargo plus passengers does not exceed payload. 2) Use at least two WLL-rated straps plus edge protection and a center backup strap. 3) Fit a high-visibility red flag on the farthest rear point, add rear-facing red lights after dusk. 4) Move heavy mass forward in the bed when possible or use a bed extender/support to reduce tailgate load. 5) Consult the owner’s manual for tailgate and anchor ratings and check local DOT rules for maximum rear projection and marking requirements.

For add-on gear that improves safety or comfort during long hauls–shade can be valuable at stops and emergency roadside setups–see best patio umbrella company; to carry extra pet provisions, consider compact, high-calorie options reviewed at best additional for dogs food.

Transporting a 6‑ft suitcase inside the cab or through rear seats: measurements and folding options

For a 72 in (183 cm) suitcase, aim to route it through a fold-forward passenger seat or across a folded rear seat diagonally; measure before loading and remove wheels/extendable handle if needed to reduce overall length by 4–10 in (10–25 cm).

Measurements to take (exact, with thresholds)

• Interior longitudinal clearance: measure from the rear seat cushion front edge to the inside of the glovebox/dash. If ≥72 in (183 cm) no seat manipulation is required.
• Door opening: measure width and height of the doorway and the sill-to-roof clearance. Minimum recommended doorway width for hand-turning a 72 in case diagonally is 30 in (76 cm); larger better.
• Pass‑through (rear centre): measure width and height of any centre armrest/opening. Most OEM pass‑throughs are 12–18 in (30–46 cm) wide – too small for full-length items but useful for handles or narrow pieces.
• Rear-seat flat length: with rear seatback folded, measure from folded seatback to the front seat back or dash. If this length ≥72 in, the case will lie flat.
• Diagonal clearance calculation: diagonal = sqrt(length^2 + width^2). Example: length 58 in × width 50 in → diagonal ≈ 76.6 in, enough for a 72 in case.

Seat folding and placement methods

• Front-passenger fold-forward: fold the passenger seat flat (remove headrest if it blocks) and slide the suitcase nose-first from rear door through to the dash area. Advantage: minimal disassembly; limitation: front-seat airbag and electronics – do not wedge against airbag covers.
• Rear 60/40 or 40/20/40 split: drop the larger section and load through the opening; use the smaller section or pass‑through for handles/wheels. If rear seat folds flat, align the case centrally for a low, stable load.
• Diagonal placement across cabin: use the diagonal formula to verify; lower front or rear seat cushion as needed to increase angle. This often gains 8–20 in of effective length versus pure longitudinal placement.
• Remove wheels/compact handle option: remove or retract wheels and collapse telescopic handle to shorten by ~4–10 in; store detachable parts under seat or in centre console to avoid rolling during transit.
• Temporary seat removal: if seats are bolted but removable and you have tools, quick-release bolts or unfastening seat rails can create full-length clearance – note time, required tools, and OEM wiring for airbags.

• Securing in-cab: use cam straps to factory anchor points, place a moving blanket under the case, block ends with foam wedges, and avoid pressure on seatback airbags or intrusion into the driver’s footwell.
• Visibility & safety: keep the case below window line if possible; do not obstruct rearview sightlines or seatbelt anchors. Fasten loose parts to prevent projectile risk during braking.
• Comparison item: for bulky child gear reference see best full recline umbrella stroller for dimension strategies similar to large suitcases.

Quick checklist before loading: measure interior longitudinal and diagonal clearances, test door opening, remove headrests/wheels if needed, fold appropriate seat section, secure with straps and soft blocks, confirm no airbag or visibility interference.

Tie-down methods and padding to prevent damage when hauling a 6‑ft suitcase in the bed

Use two 1.5–2″ ratchet straps (each with a working load limit of at least 1,000 lb) plus a non-slip underlayment and closed-cell foam padding; position the 6‑ft suitcase centered over two opposed anchor points and tension straps evenly to about 30–40% of their maximum travel to avoid over-compression.

Select hardware: 2″ ratchet straps with a minimum breaking strength of 6,000 lb (WLL ≈ 2,000 lb) are preferred for heavy, fully packed cases; lighter cam straps (1″ width, WLL ≈ 500–700 lb) are acceptable only for lightly loaded items and short trips. Use corrosion-resistant hooks (zinc or stainless) or flush D-ring anchors rated to match strap WLL.

Protect contact edges with: split pool noodles or rubber edge protectors at metal lips, 1/2″ closed-cell foam sheets under the case base, and moving blankets folded twice between case and bed floor. Place a 3–5 mm anti-slip shelf liner beneath the foam to stop lateral movement without adhesive.

Tie-down patterns: place one strap over the forward third and one over the rear third of the case, both routed to opposite-side anchors (forward-left to rear-left anchor and forward-right to rear-right anchor for best stability). For long highway runs add a third diagonal strap (front-left anchor to rear-right anchor) to resist yaw and lift.

Avoid threading ratchet hooks through telescoping handles or zipper pulls. Instead, loop webbing under the case and through built-in handles, or use soft lifting slings/axle straps around the entire case body. Pad any webbing in contact with hard corners with leather or rubber patches to prevent chafing and zipper damage.

Block movement: wedge 2×4 blocks wrapped in carpet or foam against both ends of the case or use adjustable cargo bars fitted perpendicular to the bed to prevent fore-aft travel. Secure blocks with short cam straps to anchors to keep them from shifting.

Edge and fastener care: cover exposed ratchet mechanisms and metal hooks with tape or cloth to prevent paint scuffs. Use plastic or rubber edge protectors where webbing passes over sharp bed seams.

Checklist before departure: verify each strap is routed cleanly, no twists; ratchets are secured and positioned so they cannot open if snagged; excess webbing is tied off or taped; case sits flat and under minimal strap compression. Re-check tension and anchor integrity after the first 5–10 miles and at every refueling stop.

FAQ:

Will a 6-foot (72″) piece of luggage fit in my pickup truck bed?

Measure the luggage (including wheels and handle) and compare to the bed length. A 6-foot item requires about 72 inches of straight length. Common bed lengths: compact/short ≈60–66″, standard ≈78″ (6.5 ft), long ≈96″ (8 ft). If your bed is 78″ or longer, the luggage will lie flat with the tailgate closed. If the bed is shorter, you can often fit the bag at an angle or with the tailgate down, but you must secure it and check that it does not block lights or the license plate. Also check the width between wheel wells (often ~50–52″) — that limits how you can position the item. Use straps and padding to prevent movement and damage.