Choosing the right truck bed size can feel confusing. I get it, I’ve been there too. That’s why I put together this simple guide to help you understand GMC Sierra bed sizes.
GMC offers different bed lengths across its trim levels, and understanding the differences can save you time, money, and stress.
In this blog, I’ll break it all down in an easy-to-read chart. You’ll see how long each bed is and which trucks come with which sizes.
I’ll also explain the names used for the bed types, like short, standard, and long.
If you’re hauling tools, furniture, or prefer a certain size, knowing your options is crucial.
You don’t need to be a truck expert to figure it out. I’ll keep things clear and simple so you can pick the right GMC Sierra bed with confidence. Let’s get started.
What You Need to Know About GMC Sierra Bed Sizes
The GMC Sierra comes with different bed sizes to match your needs.
You can choose from a short bed (about 5.8 feet), a standard bed (around 6.6 feet), or a long bed (about 8 feet). The size you get depends on the cab style and trim you pick.
A short bed is great for everyday use and easier parking, while the long bed gives you the most space for hauling. The standard bed offers a good balance of both.
Knowing the right bed size helps you get the most out of your truck – whether it’s for work, travel, or hobbies.
GMC Sierra Bed Types: The Basics
Before you pick a GMC Sierra, it helps to understand the different bed types. Each one has a different length and serves a different purpose.
Some are better for city driving, while others are made for hauling big loads. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. Short Bed
The short bed is the smallest option. It’s often called the short box.
- Length: About 5 feet 8 inches (or around 70 inches)
- Best for: Everyday driving, small loads, and tight spaces
The short bed is a popular choice for people who want a truck that’s easy to handle. It works well for city driving, grocery runs, or carrying a bike or small tools.
Because it’s smaller, the truck overall is easier to park and turn. Most crew cab models offer this bed size.
It provides ample space inside the cab while keeping the exterior of the truck shorter.
Keep in mind: This bed may not be the best choice if you need to haul long items like lumber or full-size furniture.
2. Standard Bed
The standard bed, also called the regular box, gives you a bit more space without making the truck feel too long.
- Length: About 6 feet 6 inches (or around 79 inches)
- Best for: Daily use, weekend projects, and most work tasks
This bed size is the most balanced option. It provides ample space for tools, bikes, dirt bikes, or landscaping supplies without compromising the truck’s maneuverability.
You’ll find the standard bed on many double-cab and crew-cab models.
Why it’s great: It’s long enough to handle most jobs but still short enough to fit in many home garages or tight parking spots.
3. Long Bed
The long bed is the largest option. It’s also called the long box.
- Length: About 8 feet to 8 feet 2 inches (around 98 inches)
- Best for: Contractors, farmers, and people who haul big items often
This bed size is ideal for serious work. It can hold full sheets of plywood, long pipes, large tools, or even small ATVs.
You’ll usually find the long bed on regular cab or heavy-duty models like the 2500HD or 3500HD.
What to know: Long beds give you more cargo room but can make the truck harder to park or turn in small areas. If you don’t need that much space often, it might be more than you need.
| Bed Type | Length (approx) | Best For | Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Bed | 5’8” | Daily driving, easy parking | Less space for big items |
| Standard Bed | 6’6” | Most tasks, general hauling | It may still be too short for big jobs |
| Long Bed | 8’2” | Heavy-duty work, long items | Harder to park and turn |
Each bed size has its own strengths. Think about what you’ll use the truck for the most.
If you need lots of room inside for people, a crew cab with a short bed might work best. If your focus is hauling, a long bed could be the way to go.
GMC Sierra 1500 Bed Sizes by Cab Type
The Sierra 1500 is the light-duty version of the Sierra. It offers different cab styles, and each cab style limits which bed sizes you can choose.
Regular Cab
The Regular Cab is most often used for work trucks and seats two to three people. It offers two bed size options: a long bed (8’2″) and a standard bed (6’6″).
This setup is ideal for those who need maximum hauling space and don’t require extra passenger room.
Double Cab
The Double Cab comes with a standard bed (6’6″) only.
It includes a second row with extra seating, making it a practical choice for small groups or light-duty work that still demands some passenger comfort alongside cargo space.
Crew Cab
The Crew Cab is the most popular option, offering both a short bed (5’8″) and a standard bed (6’6″).
It seats five to six people comfortably, making it perfect for families, commuting, or travel. This configuration balances roomy interiors with versatile bed lengths.
GMC Sierra 1500 Bed Dimensions (2024 Model)
Let’s look at the actual measurements for the 2024 Sierra 1500 beds:
| Bed Type | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Height (inches) | Volume (cu. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short Bed | 69.9 | 71.4 | 22.4 | 62.9 |
| Standard Bed | 79.4 | 71.4 | 22.4 | 71.7 |
| Long Bed | 98.2 | 71.4 | 22.4 | 89.1 |
These numbers are important if you haul tools, gear, furniture, or anything large.
GMC Sierra Heavy Duty (HD) Bed Sizes
The Sierra 2500HD and Sierra 3500HD are heavy-duty trucks. They are stronger and made for serious work like towing and hauling.
HD models offer the same three bed lengths:
- Standard Bed (6’9”)
- Long Bed (8’2”)
Note: There is no short bed option for HD trucks.
Bed Dimensions
Let’s go over the actual bed sizes for Sierra 2500 and 3500:
| Bed Type | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Height (inches) | Volume (cu ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Bed | 82.2 | 71.3 | 21.0 | 69.5 |
| Long Bed | 98.3 | 71.3 | 21.0 | 83.5 |
The HD beds are slightly deeper and longer than the 1500, especially the standard bed.
How Bed Size Affects Truck Use
Each bed size has its own pros and cons. Let’s go over how each one affects your daily life.
Short Bed Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easier to park
- Lighter weight = better fuel economy
- Looks sleek with crew cab
Cons:
- Less space for hauling
- Not ideal for large items
Standard Bed Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good balance of size and space
- Still easy to park for most drivers
Cons:
-
It may still be too short for some job needs
Long Bed Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best for big jobs and long items
- Great for construction or farm use
Cons:
- Harder to turn and park
- Heavier = lower MPG
Which Sierra Bed Size Is Right for You?
Choosing the best bed size depends on your lifestyle.
For everyday use, choose the short or standard bed. These are easier to drive and park, and still have enough space for groceries, bikes, or tools.
For work or towing, go with the long bed. It gives you more room for lumber, equipment, and trailers—perfect for job sites or heavy-duty needs.
For road trips or family, pick a crew cab with a short or standard bed. You’ll get lots of interior room and still have a useful truck bed for luggage or gear.
GMC Sierra Trim Levels and Bed Sizes
Each trim level of the Sierra may have limits on which bed size you can get.
| Trim Level | Cab Options | Bed Sizes Available |
|---|---|---|
| Pro | Regular, Double, Crew | Standard, Long, Short |
| SLE | Double, Crew | Standard, Short |
| Elevation | Double, Crew | Standard, Short |
| SLT | Crew | Standard, Short |
| AT4 | Crew | Standard Only |
| Denali | Crew | Standard Only |
| Denali Ultimate | Crew | Short Only |
| AT4X | Crew | Short Only |
GMC CarbonPro Bed Option
The CarbonPro Bed is a special option for the Sierra. It replaces the standard steel bed with one made of carbon fiber.
Key Features:
- Lighter than steel
- Won’t dent or rust
- More scratch-resistant
You can only get this option on higher trims, such as AT4 and Denali.
GMC Bed Features You Should Know
GMC doesn’t stop at just bed size. It also adds features to help you use the bed better.
1. MultiPro Tailgate
- Standard on many trims
- Can be folded six ways
- Makes loading easier
- Great for using as a work surface
2. Bed Lighting
- LED lights are built into the corners
- Helps you see at night
3. 12 Tie-Downs
- Strong hooks to keep your load secure
- Comes standard on all Sierra models
4. Spray-On Bedliner
- Protects the bed from scratches
- Great for heavy or dirty loads
How to Measure a GMC Truck Bed
If you’re looking at a used truck or checking your own Sierra, here’s how to measure the bed:
- Lower the tailgate.
- Use a tape measure.
- Start at the inside of the tailgate and proceed to the bulkhead, which is the wall behind the cab.
- Measure the length in inches.
- Convert to feet if needed (divide by 12).
Example: 79 inches ÷ 12 = 6.6 feet (standard bed)
Used GMC Sierra Bed Sizes by Year
GMC Sierra models from years past offer similar sizes:
| Model Year | Short Bed | Standard Bed | Long Bed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 5’8” | 6’6” | 8’2” |
| 2023 | 5’8” | 6’6” | 8’2” |
| 2022 | 5’8” | 6’6” | 8’2” |
| 2021 | 5’8” | 6’6” | 8’2” |
| 2020 | 5’8” | 6’6” | 8’2” |
Older models, those produced before 2019, also offer similar sizes. However, always double-check exact measurements, as some trims or special editions may differ.
Buying Tips Based on Bed Size
Some simple tips to help you buy the right truck:
- Test drive both sizes: Parking and turning are different for long beds.
- Think about what you haul most: If it’s long or heavy, go with a longer bed.
- Consider your garage: Will it fit?
- Look at trim packages: Some trims only offer one bed type.
- Check resale value: Standard beds are often easier to resell.
Conclusion
Picking the right GMC Sierra bed size isn’t hard when you know what to look for. I hope this guide made things easier for you.
I covered the short bed, standard bed, and long bed, and explained which one works best for different needs.
Some people require additional space for tools or building materials. Others want a smaller bed for everyday use and easier parking.
I also showed you the bed sizes by cab type, trim level, and even the exact dimensions in inches and cubic feet. That way, you can compare all your options in one place.
When I shop for a truck, I want clear answers without all the fluff. That’s what I tried to do here.
Take your time, think about how you’ll use your truck, and use the chart to help you decide. You’ll feel better knowing the bed size fits your life and your plans.
