2016 Ford F150 Bed Size – The Ultimate Hauling And Fitment Guide

Choosing the right 2016 ford f150 bed size is essential for ensuring your cargo, tools, or outdoor gear fit securely during transport. This guide breaks down the three primary bed lengths, their exact dimensions, and how they pair with different cab configurations to help you maximize your truck’s utility.

Do you ever feel like your truck bed is just a few inches too short for that dirt bike or plywood stack? You are not alone, as many F-150 owners struggle to balance cabin space with hauling capacity. Selecting the correct bed dimensions is the first step toward a more functional and capable rig.

I promise to provide a clear, technical breakdown of every available 2016 ford f150 bed size option. We will look at internal measurements, tailgate widths, and how these sizes impact your daily driving and off-road adventures. By the end of this article, you will know exactly which configuration suits your specific needs.

We will cover the 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot options in detail. We will also explore how the BoxLink system and bed accessories factor into your decision. Let’s dive into the specifics of the 2016 Ford F-150 lineup to get your setup dialed in.

2016 ford f150 bed size

The 2016 Ford F-150 offers three distinct bed lengths designed to cater to different types of users. Whether you use your truck as a family cruiser or a dedicated workhorse, there is a specific Styleside configuration for you. Understanding these options is the foundation of truck ownership.

The 5.5-Foot Short Bed

The 5.5-foot bed is the most common choice for those who prioritize interior cabin space. This bed length measures approximately 67.1 inches in floor length. It is almost exclusively paired with the SuperCrew cab, making it a favorite for families and weekend warriors.

While it is the shortest option, it still offers significant volume for camping gear or grocery runs. However, you might find it tight for hauling full-size motorcycles or standard 8-foot lumber. You will likely need a bed extender or a specialized rack for longer items.

The 6.5-Foot Standard Bed

The 6.5-foot bed is often considered the “sweet spot” for versatility. It provides a floor length of roughly 78.9 inches. This size is available across all three cab styles: Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew.

For DIYers, this bed length is a game-changer. It allows you to haul most construction materials with the tailgate down without excessive overhang. It also provides a more stable platform for mounting toolboxes while leaving plenty of floor space.

The 8-Foot Long Bed

If you are a professional contractor or a serious rancher, the 8-foot bed is the gold standard. It offers a massive 97.6 inches of floor length. This configuration is typically paired with the Regular Cab or SuperCab models.

This bed size allows you to carry 4×8 sheets of plywood or drywall with the tailgate completely closed. It offers the maximum payload capacity and volume. Keep in mind that this setup results in a much longer wheelbase, which can make parking in tight city spots a challenge.

Detailed Internal Dimensions and Volume

Knowing the length of the 2016 ford f150 bed size is only half the battle. You also need to understand the width and depth to ensure your aftermarket accessories fit correctly. Ford designed these beds with utility in mind, but the wheel wells do consume some space.

Width Between Wheel Wells

The width between the wheel housings is a critical measurement for hauling heavy loads. On all 2016 F-150 models, this distance is approximately 50.6 inches. This is intentional, as it allows a standard 48-inch wide pallet to sit flat on the floor.

If you plan on building a DIY sleeping platform for overlanding, this 50.6-inch clearance is your primary constraint. Always measure twice before cutting your plywood supports. Ensure you account for bed liners, as spray-in or drop-in liners can reduce this width by a fraction of an inch.

Total Bed Width and Depth

The maximum width of the bed at the floor (not between the wheel wells) is 65.2 inches. This provides extra room for smaller items around the sides of your main cargo. The cargo box depth is consistently 21.4 inches across all three bed lengths.

A depth of 21.4 inches is deep enough to keep most items hidden under a tonneau cover. It also provides a high enough sidewall to prevent loose materials like mulch or gravel from spilling over easily. When installing a bed-mounted fuel tank, ensure it sits below this 21.4-inch line for a clean look.

Cab and Bed Compatibility Chart

Not every bed size is available with every cab configuration. Ford limits certain combinations to manage the overall wheelbase and structural integrity of the frame. Before you go shopping for a used 2016 F-150, check this compatibility guide.

• Regular Cab: Available with the 6.5-foot standard bed or the 8-foot long bed.
• SuperCab (Extended Cab): Available with the 6.5-foot standard bed or the 8-foot long bed.
• SuperCrew (Crew Cab): Available with the 5.5-foot short bed or the 6.5-foot standard bed.

The SuperCrew with a 6.5-foot bed is a very popular “heavy-duty” light truck setup. It offers the maximum interior room with a very capable bed. However, this combination creates a very long vehicle that may not fit in a standard garage. Always measure your parking space before committing to this long-wheelbase version.

The Impact of the Aluminum Bed Construction

The 2016 model year was part of the second year of Ford’s transition to a high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body. This change significantly reduced the truck’s weight but introduced new considerations for bed maintenance. Aluminum does not rust like steel, but it can still corrode if exposed to certain chemicals.

When choosing your 2016 ford f150 bed size, consider how you will protect the aluminum surface. A spray-in bed liner is highly recommended to prevent gouges and scratches. While aluminum is tough, sharp heavy objects can puncture it more easily than older, thicker steel beds.

Additionally, you must be careful with galvanic corrosion. If you bolt steel accessories directly to the aluminum bed without a protective barrier, a chemical reaction can occur. Always use the provided rubber gaskets or plastic spacers when installing toolboxes or ladder racks.

Maximizing Utility with the BoxLink System

Regardless of which 2016 ford f150 bed size you choose, the BoxLink system is a standout feature. This system uses four reinforced plates located on the sides of the bed. These plates allow you to attach various cleats, tie-downs, and accessories.

The BoxLink cleats are compatible with E-Track accessories, which are common in the trucking industry. This means you can easily secure motorcycles, ATVs, or heavy machinery. It provides much more flexibility than the standard fixed tie-down loops in the corners of the bed.

If your truck didn’t come with the cleats, you can buy them as an OEM part. They are simple to install and drastically improve how you manage cargo. For off-roaders, these points are perfect for securing recovery gear or high-lift jacks.

Hauling Specific Cargo: What Fits Where?

Choosing a bed size is ultimately about what you plan to carry. Let’s look at some real-world scenarios to see how the different lengths perform. This will help you visualize the cargo capacity of each option.

Hauling Plywood and Drywall

If you frequently visit the lumber yard, the 8-foot bed is the clear winner. You can lay 4×8 sheets flat and close the tailgate. In the 6.5-foot bed, you will have about 1.5 feet of overhang, requiring you to leave the tailgate down and use straps.

In the 5.5-foot bed, nearly half of the sheet will hang out the back. This requires a bed extender or a specialized hitch-mounted load support. If construction is your primary hobby or job, avoid the 5.5-foot bed if possible.

Transporting Motorcycles and ATVs

For dirt bike riders, the 6.5-foot bed is usually the minimum requirement. Most full-size dirt bikes are about 7 feet long. In a 6.5-foot bed, you can often fit the bike diagonally or straight in with the tailgate slightly down.

In the 5.5-foot bed, the rear tire of a motorcycle will almost certainly rest on the tailgate. This puts a lot of stress on the tailgate cables. If you go this route, consider reinforced tailgate supports or a “tailgate-up” ramp system to protect your truck.

Off-Road Considerations for Bed Sizes

When you take your F-150 off the pavement, your 2016 ford f150 bed size affects your departure angle. A longer bed means a longer rear overhang. This increases the risk of “dragging tail” when climbing steep obstacles or exiting deep washouts.

The 5.5-foot bed on a SuperCrew offers the best compromise for off-roading with a group. It has a shorter overall length, making it more maneuverable on tight trails. If you plan on building a dedicated rock crawler or trail rig, the shorter wheelbase is your friend.

Conversely, the 8-foot bed is rarely seen on difficult trails. The massive turning radius and long overhang make it cumbersome in technical terrain. However, for high-speed desert running or overlanding on open fire roads, the longer wheelbase can provide a smoother, more stable ride.

How to Accurately Measure Your Truck Bed

If you are buying a used truck and the owner isn’t sure of the size, you need to measure it yourself. Do not just measure the outside of the truck body. Follow these steps to get the exact internal dimensions.

1. Open the tailgate and stand at the rear of the truck.
2. Run a tape measure from the inside of the bulkhead (the wall behind the cab) to the inside of the closed tailgate.
3. Measure the width between the wheel wells to confirm it is the standard 50.6 inches.
4. Measure the height from the bed floor to the top of the bed rails.

Knowing these numbers is vital when ordering a camper shell or a tonneau cover. Even a one-inch discrepancy can lead to leaks or a poor fit. Always measure from the metal surfaces, not the plastic trim caps.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 ford f150 bed size

Can I swap a 6.5-foot bed onto a truck that had a 5.5-foot bed?

No, this is not a direct bolt-on swap. The frame lengths and wheelbase are different for each bed size. Swapping would require extensive frame modification and custom driveshafts, which is not recommended for a DIY project.

Does the bed size affect the towing capacity of the 2016 F-150?

Yes, indirectly. A larger bed and a longer cab increase the curb weight of the truck. Since towing capacity is often limited by the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), a heavier truck may have a slightly lower maximum trailer weight than a lighter, short-bed version with the same engine.

Is the tailgate width the same on all 2016 F-150 beds?

Yes, the tailgate opening width is consistent across all 2016 Styleside models. It measures approximately 60.3 inches at the top. This allows Ford to use the same tailgate design and accessories, like the integrated tailgate step, across the entire lineup.

What is the most popular bed size for resale value?

The SuperCrew with a 5.5-foot bed generally holds the highest resale value for average consumers because it functions well as a daily driver. However, the 6.5-foot bed is highly sought after in the used market by enthusiasts and contractors who need more utility.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Setup

Selecting the right 2016 ford f150 bed size is a balance between maneuverability and hauling capability. If you live in a city and occasionally haul camping gear, the 5.5-foot bed is likely sufficient. For those who use their truck for work or heavy outdoor hobbies, the 6.5-foot or 8-foot beds are much better investments.

Remember to consider your payload limits and how you plan to protect the aluminum bed. Installing a high-quality liner and using the BoxLink system will ensure your truck remains functional for years to come. Take the time to measure your garage and your most frequent cargo before making a final decision.

Whether you are hitting the trails or heading to the job site, having the right bed size makes every task easier. Stay safe, secure your loads properly, and enjoy the versatility of your F-150!