How Much Firewood Fits in a Truck Bed? [Bed Size Chart]

Efficiently transporting firewood is crucial for me as an outdoor enthusiast, camper, and homeowner. Knowing how much firewood fits in a truck bed makes me well-prepared for outdoor adventures or winter heating needs.

In this guide, I will delve into the intricacies of loading a truck bed optimally with firewood, offering insights, tips, and calculations to maximize space and efficiency.

Firewood Type	Small Pickup (6 ft bed)	Standard Pickup (8 ft bed)	Large Pickup (Long bed)	Large Pickup (Short bed)	Flatbed Truck	SUV with Folded Seats	Heavy Truck (Dump Bed)
Full Cord (4 ft x 4 ft x 8 ft)	0.25 cords	0.33 cords	0.5 cords	0.33 cords	0.5 cords	0.25 cords	2-3 cords
Face Cord (4 ft x 8 ft x depth)	0.125 cords	0.165 cords	0.25 cords	0.165 cords	0.25 cords	0.125 cords	1-2 cords
Loose Stacked	0.5-0.75 cords	0.75-1 cord	1-1.5 cords	0.75-1 cord	1-1.5 cords	0.5-0.75 cords	3-5 cords
Round Logs	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies

How Much Firewood Fits in a Truck Bed?

Determining the ideal size of firewood for a truck bed depends on the type of truck and the size of the bed. Below are some of the most common types of truck beds and their capacity to hold firewood.

1. Small Pickup (6 ft bed):
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.25 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.125 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 0.5-0.75 cords
   • Round Logs: Varies
2. Standard Pickup (8 ft bed):
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.33 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.165 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 0.75-1 cord
   • Round Logs: Varies
3. Large Pickup (Long bed):
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.5 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.25 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 1-1.5 cords
   • Round Logs: Varies
4. Large Pickup (Short bed):
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.33 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.165 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 0.75-1 cord
   • Round Logs: Varies
5. Flatbed Truck:
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.5 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.25 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 1-1.5 cords
   • Round Logs: Varies
6. SUV with Folded Seats:
   • Full Cord: Approximately 0.25 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 0.125 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 0.5-0.75 cords
   • Round Logs: Varies
7. Heavy Truck (Dump Bed):
   • Full Cord: Approximately 2-3 cords
   • Face Cord: Approximately 1-2 cords
   • Loose Stacked: Approximately 3-5 cords
   • Round Logs: Varies

How to Calculate the Capacity of Firewood in a Truck Bed.

Calculating the capacity of firewood in a truck bed involves a few simple steps.

Start by measuring the truck bed’s length, width, and height. Ensure to measure the interior dimensions, excluding wheel wells or other obstructions.

Multiply the length, width, and height measurements together to find the volume of the truck bed. This will give you the total amount of space available for storing firewood.

For example, if the truck bed measures 6 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 2 feet tall, the volume would be:

Volume = Length × Width × Height

= 6 ft × 4 ft × 2 ft

= 48 cubic feet.

The density of firewood can vary depending on the type of wood and how tightly it’s packed. A common estimation for stacked firewood is about 128 cubic feet per cord. However, this can vary.

Divide the total volume of the truck bed by the density of the firewood to find the maximum capacity of firewood that the truck bed can hold.

Continuing with the example above, if we assume the firewood density is 128 cubic feet per cord, then:

Capacity = Volume of Truck Bed / Density of Firewood

= 48 cubic feet / 128 cubic feet per cord

= 0.375 cords.

Tips for Maximizing Space

Maximize the amount of firewood you can transport with these expert tips:

Invest in truck bed racks or organizers to create additional layers for stacking firewood.

Tailgate extenders provide extra support for longer pieces of firewood, allowing you to optimize space without compromising safety.

Stack firewood in a crisscross or alternating pattern to create a stable and compact load.

Use heavy-duty straps or bungee cords to secure the firewood and prevent shifting during transport.

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FAQs

How much firewood fits in a standard-sized truck bed?

The firewood in a truck bed varies depending on the truck’s dimensions and stacking method. However, a standard-sized truck bed can typically hold approximately half a cord of firewood.

Can I transport green (unseasoned) firewood in my truck bed?

It’s not recommended to transport green firewood in your truck bed as it can lead to excess moisture buildup, potentially causing damage to your truck bed and compromising the quality of the firewood.

Is it safe to stack firewood above the truck bed’s side walls?

Stacking firewood above the truck bed’s side walls can be unsafe and may lead to instability during transport. It’s best to keep the firewood within the confines of the truck bed for optimal safety.

How should I prepare my truck bed for transporting firewood?

Before loading firewood into your truck bed, ensure it is clean and debris-free. Consider using a protective liner to prevent scratches and damage to the truck bed surface.

What are the consequences of overloading my truck bed with firewood?

Overloading your truck bed with firewood can stay within the vehicle’s payload capacity, leading to decreased fuel efficiency, compromised handling, and potential damage to the suspension system.

How can I estimate the weight of the firewood before loading it into my truck bed?

You can estimate the weight of the firewood by calculating its volume and density. Use a firewood calculator or consult a local supplier for accurate weight estimations.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of loading firewood into your truck bed is essential for any outdoor enthusiast or homeowner. Following the tips and calculations outlined in this guide, you can optimize space, ensure safety, and transport firewood efficiently for all outdoor adventures and heating needs.