Dodge Ram Bed Size Chart: 1500, 2500 & 3500 (2025)
Choosing the right Ram truck is a significant decision, and at the heart of that choice lies a complex interplay between cab configuration and truck bed size. This is not merely a question of picking a length; the selection impacts everything from daily maneuverability and passenger comfort to job site efficiency and overall capability. The wrong combination can limit your hauling potential, make parking a daily challenge, or leave you without the passenger space you need.
This guide serves as the most comprehensive resource available for understanding the full spectrum of Ram truck bed dimensions. It moves beyond simple charts to provide deep, actionable analysis for prospective buyers and current owners alike. Here, every dimension is broken down, every cab and bed pairing is clarified, and the real-world implications of these choices are explored in detail.
The following sections will provide a detailed breakdown of bed sizes for the Ram 1500, the Heavy Duty Ram 2500 and 3500, the critical role cab configurations play in determining your options, a close look at the innovative RamBox® Cargo Management System, and a data-driven comparison against key competitors.
The Definitive Guide to Ram Truck Bed Sizes
Choosing the right truck bed is critical. It defines your truck’s capability, from daily tasks to heavy-duty hauling. This guide breaks down every Ram bed and cab combination to help you make the perfect choice.
Ram 1500: Cab & Bed Configurations
The Ram 1500 is the most popular model, known for its versatility. It offers two primary bed sizes, each available with a specific cab type. The Crew Cab offers more interior space at the cost of a shorter standard bed, while the Quad Cab provides a balanced approach. This chart compares the total length in inches for each combination.
Ram Heavy Duty (2500/3500): The Workhorses
For those who need maximum capability, the Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models offer larger beds and more robust cab options, including the spacious Mega Cab and the classic Regular Cab. The 8-foot bed, available with Regular and Crew Cabs, provides unparalleled hauling space for construction and commercial use.
Cargo Volume Comparison
Beyond length, the total volume of the truck bed is a crucial metric for understanding its real-world capacity. This chart illustrates the significant increase in cargo space (measured in cubic feet) as you move from the short bed to the long bed, highlighting the practical advantage of the 8-foot option for hauling bulky items.
Bed Size Popularity
Among buyers, certain combinations are more popular due to their balance of utility and convenience. The 5’7″ bed paired with a Crew Cab is a favorite for personal use and daily driving, while the 6’4″ bed remains a strong choice for those needing more consistent hauling capability without committing to a long bed.
How to Choose Your Ideal Ram Bed
Your lifestyle and work needs dictate the right choice. Use this simple flow to determine which bed size best fits your requirements.
Primary Use?
Daily Driving & Light Hauling
Consider the 5′ 7″ Bed. It offers great maneuverability for city parking and handles weekend projects with ease.
Frequent DIY & Outdoor Gear
The 6′ 4″ Bed is the versatile choice. It fits most ATVs, sheets of plywood, and extensive camping equipment.
Commercial Use & Max Capacity
You need the 8′ Bed. This is the standard for construction sites and hauling long materials without compromise.
Ram Truck Bed Sizes at a Glance: Quick Reference Charts
For those who need a quick, high-level overview, the following chart outlines the available bed lengths for each model in the Ram truck lineup. This provides an immediate snapshot of the options before diving into the detailed specifications.
Ram Truck Model & Available Bed Lengths
| Model | Available Bed Lengths |
| Ram 1500 | 5-foot 7-inch (Short Box), 6-foot 4-inch (Standard Box) |
| Ram 2500 | 6-foot 4-inch (Standard Box), 8-foot (Long Box) |
| Ram 3500 | 6-foot 4-inch (Standard Box), 8-foot (Long Box) |
In-Depth Analysis: Ram 1500 Bed Sizes & Dimensions
The Ram 1500 is the brand’s versatile, light-duty offering, designed to handle a wide range of tasks from daily commuting to serious weekend projects. Its two available bed sizes are tailored to distinct lifestyles and use cases, balancing cargo capacity with maneuverability.
The 5-foot 7-inch Bed (Short Box)
Often referred to as the short box, this option prioritizes agility and ease of use, making it a popular choice for personal-use trucks that navigate urban environments.
Detailed Specifications:
- Cargo Volume: 53.9 cubic feet
- Length (at floor): 67.4 inches
- Maximum Width: 66.4 inches
- Width Between Wheelhouses: Approximately 51 inches
- Depth: 21.5 inches
Cab Availability:
A critical factor for this bed is its exclusive pairing. The 5-foot 7-inch bed is only available with the spacious Crew Cab.1 This combination creates a vehicle that excels in passenger comfort without the extended wheelbase of a longer bed.
Ideal Use Cases:
This configuration is perfectly suited for truck owners who need comfortable seating for family or a crew but don’t require maximum cargo length. Its shorter overall length results in superior maneuverability in parking lots and tighter city streets. It offers ample space for luggage, camping gear, tools for smaller jobs, and daily errands, making it an excellent all-around choice for mixed-use scenarios.
The 6-foot 4-inch Bed (Standard Box)
This is the larger of the two options for the Ram 1500, providing a significant increase in cargo length and volume. It represents a balanced approach, offering enhanced utility without the full footprint of a traditional long-bed truck.
Detailed Specifications:
- Cargo Volume: 61.5 cubic feet
- Length (at floor): 76.3 inches
- Maximum Width: 66.4 inches
- Width Between Wheelhouses: Approximately 51 inches
- Depth: 21.5 inches
Cab Availability:
This versatile bed can be paired with either the Quad Cab or the Crew Cab.5 This flexibility allows buyers to choose between the maximum passenger space of the Crew Cab or the more compact, yet still functional, rear seating of the Quad Cab.
Ideal Use Cases:
The 6-foot 4-inch bed is the “do-it-all” option in the Ram 1500 lineup. It provides enough length to handle more substantial materials for construction or landscaping projects while still being manageable as a daily driver. It is the ideal choice for those who need a true work-capable truck that also serves as a comfortable family vehicle.
Ram 1500 Bed Dimension Comparison Chart
| Dimension | 5-foot 7-inch Bed | 6-foot 4-inch Bed |
| Cargo Volume | 53.9 cu. ft. | 61.5 cu. ft. |
| Length (at floor) | 67.4 in. | 76.3 in. |
| Maximum Width | 66.4 in. | 66.4 in. |
| Width Between Wheelhouses | ~51 in. | ~51 in. |
| Depth | 21.5 in. | 21.5 in. |
| Cab Availability | Crew Cab Only | Quad Cab, Crew Cab |
The Ghost of the 8-Foot Bed: Clarifying the Ram 1500 Classic
Buyers exploring the used truck market or referencing older information may encounter mentions of a Ram 1500 with an 8-foot bed. This can be a significant point of confusion. It is essential to understand the distinction between the modern Ram 1500 and its predecessor.
The previous generation of the Ram 1500 (known as the “DS” platform) did offer an 8-foot long box, but it was exclusively available with the 2-door Regular Cab configuration. This platform continues to be sold as the Ram 1500 Classic. However, the current generation Ram 1500 (the “DT” platform, introduced in 2019) does not offer an 8-foot bed option. This longest bed size is now reserved for the Ram Heavy Duty lineup. Therefore, any modern Ram 1500 will be limited to the 5-foot 7-inch or 6-foot 4-inch bed.
Built for the Biggest Jobs: Ram Heavy Duty (2500 & 3500) Bed Sizes
When the job demands maximum power and capability, the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 Heavy Duty trucks step in. These models are engineered for extreme payloads and towing, and their bed configurations are built to match. While some of the bed length names are the same as the 1500, the underlying construction and key dimensions are different to accommodate their robust frames and suspension systems. The bed options are identical for both the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 models.
The 6-foot 4-inch Bed (HD Standard Box)
This is the shorter of the two beds available on the Heavy Duty models, offering a balance between hauling capacity and vehicle maneuverability.
Detailed Specifications:
- Cargo Volume: 57.5 cubic feet
- Length (at floor): 76.3 inches
- Maximum Width: 66.4 inches
- Width Between Wheelhouses: 51.0 inches
- Depth: 20.2 inches
Cab Availability:
The standard box on HD models can be paired with the Crew Cab and the class-exclusive Mega Cab.1 This makes it the mandatory choice for buyers who want the cavernous interior of the Mega Cab.
Ideal Use Cases:
This configuration is the default for those prioritizing maximum passenger space with the Mega Cab. It is also a popular choice for Crew Cab buyers who need heavy-duty capability but prefer a more manageable truck length for easier navigation and parking compared to the 8-foot bed alternative.
The 8-foot Bed (Long Box)
The 8-foot long box is the ultimate choice for maximum cargo capacity and is the foundation for the Ram HD’s most formidable work configurations.
Detailed Specifications:
- Cargo Volume: 74.7 cubic feet
- Length (at floor): 98.3 inches
- Maximum Width: 66.4 inches
- Width Between Wheelhouses: 51.0 inches
- Depth: 20.2 inches
Cab Availability:
The 8-foot bed is available with the Regular Cab and the Crew Cab.1 It cannot be paired with the Mega Cab.
Ideal Use Cases:
This is the definitive choice for serious work. Its length is ideal for hauling full-size materials like lumber and piping, making it a favorite in construction and agriculture. Furthermore, this configuration is essential for maximizing fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing capabilities. An added benefit for long-haul jobs is its availability with a Largest-in-Class 50-gallon fuel tank on Crew Cab models, extending range significantly between stops.
Why is the HD 6’4″ Bed Smaller Than the 1500’s?
A close look at the specifications reveals a curious fact: the 6-foot 4-inch bed on a Ram 2500/3500 has less cargo volume (57.5 cu. ft.) than the same-length bed on a Ram 1500 (61.5 cu. ft.). This is not an oversight but a deliberate engineering decision rooted in capability.
The difference comes down to the bed’s depth. The Heavy Duty bed is shallower, at 20.2 inches compared to the 1500’s 21.5 inches. This shallower design is necessary to provide clearance for the more robust frame and heavy-duty suspension components that sit beneath the bed floor. These components are what allow the Ram 3500 to achieve a maximum gas payload of over 7,500 pounds.
The design also ensures adequate space for the installation of in-bed fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch systems, which are common in heavy-duty applications. In essence, a small amount of raw cargo volume is traded for a massive increase in strength, durability, and specialized towing capability.
Your Master Key: How Ram Cab Configurations Dictate Bed Size
The single most important factor in determining your available bed options is your choice of cab. A buyer does not select a bed size in a vacuum; they first choose a cab based on their passenger and interior space requirements, and that decision presents a specific, and sometimes limited, menu of bed options. Understanding this hierarchy is the key to configuring the right truck.
Decoding the Cabs
- Regular Cab: The traditional work truck setup, featuring two doors and a single row of seating for up to three occupants.
- Quad Cab: A four-door configuration with front-hinged doors. The rear doors are smaller, and rear legroom is more compact (35.6 inches), offering a balance between occasional passenger use and a shorter overall vehicle length.
- Crew Cab: The most popular choice for those who frequently carry passengers. It features four full-size doors and expansive rear legroom (45.2 inches), making it ideal for families or work crews.
- Mega Cab (HD Only): The largest and most luxurious cab in the heavy-duty segment. It offers even more interior volume than the Crew Cab, with an impressive 43.1 inches of rear legroom and class-exclusive reclining rear seats, prioritizing ultimate passenger comfort.
The Ultimate Ram Cab & Bed Compatibility Matrix (2025 Models)
This matrix provides a clear, at-a-glance reference for which bed sizes can be paired with each cab across the entire Ram lineup.
Ram Cab & Bed Compatibility Matrix
| Model | Regular Cab | Quad Cab | Crew Cab | Mega Cab |
| Ram 1500 | Not Available | 6′ 4″ Bed Only | 5′ 7″ or 6′ 4″ Bed | Not Available |
| Ram 2500 | 8′ Bed Only | Not Available | 6′ 4″ or 8′ Bed | 6′ 4″ Bed Only |
| Ram 3500 | 8′ Bed Only | Not Available | 6′ 4″ or 8′ Bed | 6′ 4″ Bed Only |
Practical Dimensions: Beyond the Spec Sheet
While charts and numbers are essential, their real-world implications are what truly matter. This section translates the specifications into practical, everyday considerations for truck owners.
The Plywood Test: Will a 4×8 Sheet Fit?
A universal benchmark for any pickup truck’s utility is its ability to carry a standard 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of plywood or drywall flat on the bed floor. This requires a minimum width of 48 inches between the rear wheel wells.
The answer for the Ram lineup is a definitive yes. Across all models (1500, 2500, and 3500) and all bed sizes, Ram trucks are engineered with a width of approximately 51.0 inches between the wheelhouses. This generous clearance ensures that standard building materials can be loaded and transported flat, a crucial feature for contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts.
The RamBox® Cargo Management System: Genius Storage or Compromise?
One of Ram’s most distinctive features is the available RamBox® Cargo Management System. This class-exclusive system transforms the typically unused space within the bed’s side rails into functional, secure storage.
Features & Benefits:
The system consists of two integrated storage bins, one on each side of the truck bed. These bins are lockable (tied into the vehicle’s central locking system), illuminated for nighttime access, and drainable, making them perfect for use as coolers for drinks and ice.23 Many configurations also include a 115-volt power outlet inside one of the bins, adding significant utility at a job site or campsite.
Storage Volume:
The RamBox® system adds a substantial amount of secure storage without taking up primary bed floor space:
- With 5-foot 7-inch Bed: Adds 7.3 cubic feet of storage volume.
- With 6-foot 4-inch Bed: Adds 8.6 cubic feet of storage volume.
The Trade-Off:
While the RamBox® is a highly valued feature, it does involve a minor compromise. The system is built into the bed rails, which slightly reduces the bed’s maximum interior width at the top. The critical width between the wheelhouses at the floor remains largely unaffected, narrowing only slightly to about 50.1 inches, still well clear of the 48-inch plywood requirement.8 However, the narrower profile at the top rails could potentially interfere with certain types of aftermarket accessories, such as some drop-in bedliners or camper shells. For most users, this is a negligible trade-off for the immense gain in convenience and security.
The Garage Fit Test: Overall Truck Length Matters
A crucial, and often overlooked, consequence of selecting a cab and bed combination is its dramatic effect on the truck’s overall length. A buyer focused on cargo volume might not realize that their chosen configuration won’t fit in a standard residential garage until it’s too late.
The differences are substantial. For example, a Ram 1500 Crew Cab with the 5-foot 7-inch bed measures about 19.4 feet long, while a Ram 2500 Crew Cab with the 8-foot bed stretches to nearly 21.8 feet. This is longer than many standard home garages, which typically range from 19 to 22 feet deep. It is imperative that potential buyers measure their garage or parking space before finalizing a purchase, especially when considering a Crew Cab paired with a 6-foot 4-inch or 8-foot bed.
Estimated Overall Length by Configuration
| Configuration | Estimated Overall Length |
| Ram 1500 Crew Cab + 5′ 7″ Bed | 232.9 inches (19.4 ft) |
| Ram 1500 Crew Cab + 6′ 4″ Bed | 241.8 inches (20.2 ft) |
| Ram 2500 Crew Cab + 6′ 4″ Bed | 238.8 inches (19.9 ft) |
| Ram 2500 Crew Cab + 8′ Bed | 260.8 inches (21.7 ft) |
Ram vs. The Competition: Bed Size Showdown
No truck exists in a vacuum. To provide full context, it is helpful to compare the Ram 1500’s bed offerings against its primary rivals: the Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
Light-Duty Truck Bed Comparison
| Feature | Ram 1500 | Ford F-150 | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 |
| Bed Length Options | 5′ 7″, 6′ 4″ | 5.5′, 6.5′, 8′ | 5′ 8″, 6′ 6″, 8′ 2″ |
| Short Bed Volume | 53.9 cu. ft. | 52.8 cu. ft. | 62.9 cu. ft. |
| Standard Bed Volume | 61.5 cu. ft. | 62.3 cu. ft. | 71.7 cu. ft. |
| Long Bed Volume | N/A | 77.4 cu. ft. | 89.1 cu. ft. |
| Width Between Wheelhouses | ~51.0 in. | ~50.6 in. | ~50.63 in. |
Analysis & Key Differentiators
While the numbers are competitive across the board, each brand has unique strengths:
- Ram’s Strengths: Ram’s key advantages lie not just in the numbers but in its innovative features. The consistent 51-inch width between wheelhouses is a subtle but important design choice. The primary differentiators are the class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System, which offers unmatched integrated storage, and the Mega Cab option on its Heavy Duty trucks, providing unparalleled passenger space.
- Ford’s Position: The Ford F-150 offers a slightly wider range of three bed options for its light-duty truck and boasts very strong maximum payload ratings in certain configurations.
- Chevy’s Position: The Chevrolet Silverado stands out by offering the highest raw cargo volume in its long bed configuration, making it a strong contender for those who need to maximize bulk hauling capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a Ram Quad Cab and Crew Cab?
The main difference is rear passenger space. The Crew Cab has four full-size doors and significantly more rear legroom (45.2 inches), making it ideal for families. The Quad Cab has smaller, front-hinged rear doors and less legroom (35.6 inches), making it better for occasional passengers or as a secure in-cab storage area.
Can you still get a Ram 1500 with an 8-foot bed?
No. The modern Ram 1500 (2019 and newer) is not available with an 8-foot bed. This option was available on the previous generation, now sold as the Ram 1500 Classic, but is currently exclusive to the Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models.8
Will a queen-size mattress fit in a Ram 1500 bed?
A standard queen mattress is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. While it will not fit between the wheelhouses (approx. 51 inches), it can be placed on top of them. The 6-foot 4-inch bed is 76.3 inches long, so a queen mattress would extend slightly with the tailgate up. The 8-foot bed on HD models (98.3 inches) would accommodate the length easily.
How much width does the RamBox® system take up inside the bed?
The RamBox® system reduces the bed width at the top rails but has a minimal impact on the usable floor space. The width between the wheelhouses with the RamBox® is approximately 50.1 inches, still wide enough for a 4×8 sheet of plywood.
What is the largest bed available on a Ram truck?
The largest bed is the 8-foot long box, which is available on the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 models when configured with either a Regular Cab or a Crew Cab.
Does a Ram Mega Cab have a long bed option?
No. The Ram Mega Cab, available on 2500 and 3500 models, is exclusively paired with the 6-foot 4-inch standard bed. This configuration prioritizes maximum interior passenger space over maximum cargo length.
Are the bed dimensions the same for the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500?
Yes. The Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 share the exact same bed options and dimensions. The primary differences between these two models are in their frame, suspension, and axle components, which give the 3500 a higher payload and towing capacity.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ram Bed for Your Needs
Selecting the ideal Ram truck configuration is a process of balancing priorities. The extensive data and analysis in this guide provide the tools to make an informed decision, but the process can be simplified by following a logical framework.
A Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Start with People: The first and most important decision is the cab. Determine how many people you need to carry comfortably and how often. This choice—Regular, Quad, Crew, or Mega Cab—is the primary filter that will define your subsequent options.
- Review Your Bed Options: Once a cab is selected, the available bed lengths become clear. As the compatibility matrix shows, some cab choices will limit you to a single bed size.
- Analyze Your Cargo and Constraints: With your available bed options in hand, consider your primary hauling needs. Will you be carrying 8-foot sheets of plywood, an ATV, or just weekend camping gear? Finally, consider the practical constraints of your environment. Measure your garage and consider the types of parking situations you encounter daily to ensure your final choice fits your lifestyle.
By using this guide, you are now equipped with the expert-level knowledge needed to navigate the specifications and configure the perfect Ram truck. Whether for work, family, or adventure, understanding the precise relationship between cab and bed dimensions is the key to building a vehicle that will meet and exceed your demands for years to come. Once you’ve chosen your bed, check out our guide to the best tonneau covers for Ram trucks to protect your cargo. If towing is your priority, dive deeper into our Ram 2500 towing capacity breakdown.
