How to Transport A Kayak in a Truck? Step-by-Step Guide

Kayaking is a fun and exciting way to explore the great outdoors and get some exercise. However, one of the biggest challenges for kayakers is figuring out how to transport their kayak to their desired location.

One of the most efficient ways to transport a kayak is by using a truck. However, transporting a kayak in a truck is not as simple as loading it onto the bed and driving off. 

The transportation process will require planning and consideration of several factors. So, how to transport a kayak in a truck?

You can transport a kayak in a truck by directly loading it in the truck bed or using specialized accessories such as a truck bed extender or a kayak truck rack. It’s also important to ensure the kayak is secured properly during transportation to avoid causing any lasting damage.

Keep reading to learn more about the different ways you can transport a kayak in a truck and how to make sure that the kayak is secure during the transportation process.

Can You Transport A Kayak in A Truck?

You can definitely transport a kayak in a truck; it’s an effective and convenient method used by many kayakers to get their kayak to their desired location. 

However, there are various aspects you need to consider before transporting your kayak in a truck, including whether the truck is suitable for the kayak’s size and whether there are any laws or regulations regarding kayak transport that you need to abide by. 

You also need to choose an appropriate method to secure the kayak to the truck and take some precautions to prevent it from shifting or falling off during transport.

Keep in mind that trucks aren’t the only option for transporting kayaks; you can check out my guides on how to transport a kayak on a jeep or how to tow with a bicycle here.

What Is The Maximum Kayak Size You Can Transport In A Truck Bed?

The maximum kayak size that can be transported in a truck bed depends on the size of the truck bed and the type of kayak. 

A standard pickup truck bed can typically accommodate kayaks that are up to 12-14 feet in length. However, larger trucks may be able to transport larger kayaks. 

It’s important to measure your kayak before attempting to load it onto the truck bed to ensure that it fits comfortably and prevent any issues.

How Many Kayaks Can You Fit in A Truck?

A standard pickup truck bed can typically accommodate 1 or 2 kayaks. However, the number of kayaks that can fit in a truck will ultimately depend on the size of the truck bed and the size of the kayaks.

If you want to transport more kayaks, it’s recommended to use a truck with a larger bed. Using a bed extender or roof rack can also provide additional space to transport more kayaks. 

You can learn more about how to transport 2 kayaks in a truck bed here. You can also learn how to transport 3 kayaks on a roof rack here.

When transporting more than one kayak, it’s important to ensure that all kayaks are securely fastened and that the weight distribution in the truck is balanced to prevent any issues.

Law and Regulations of Transporting Kayaks in Trucks

The laws and regulations for transporting kayaks in trucks vary depending on the country, state, or province, but in general, it’s essential to ensure that the kayak is properly secured and does not pose a safety hazard to other drivers on the road.

Here are some common laws and regulations to keep in mind when transporting a kayak in a truck:

1. Secure the kayak: It’s mandatory to securely fasten the kayak to the truck bed or roof rack to prevent it from shifting or falling off during transport. Failure to do so can result in a traffic violation and fines.
2. Proper signage: In some areas, you may be required to display proper signage indicating that you are transporting a kayak. This is typically a red flag or a bright-colored cloth that is attached to the end of the kayak and visible to other drivers.
3. Length restrictions: In some regions, there may be restrictions on the length of the kayak that can be transported in a truck bed.
4. Weight restrictions: The weight of the kayak and the equipment used to transport it must not exceed the weight capacity of the truck. Overloading a truck can cause safety hazards and damage to the vehicle.
5. Height restrictions: When transporting a kayak on the roof of a truck, it’s essential to ensure that the kayak does not exceed the maximum height restrictions.

Make sure to check the laws and regulations of the area you will be driving through and comply with them. Failure to do so can result in fines and/or other penalties. 

How to Transport A Kayak in A Truck?

Transporting a kayak in a truck may seem complicated, but with careful planning, it’s a really straightforward process.

All you need to do is choose an appropriate transportation method and take some precautions to ensure that the kayak is secure.

So, let’s break down the different methods you can transport a kayak in a truck:

In an Open Truck Bed

Here are the steps to transport a kayak in an open truck bed:

1. Line the truck bed with foam blocks or pool noodles to cushion the kayak and protect it from scratches.
2. Gently lift the kayak onto the truck bed, bottom-side up.
3. Position the kayak in the center of the truck bed and align it with the truck’s centerline.
4. Use tie-downs or straps to secure the kayak to the truck bed.
5. Give the kayak a gentle tug and shake to make sure it’s securely fastened to the truck bed.

Using A Truck Bed Extender

Here are the steps to transport a kayak using a truck bed extender:

1. Install the truck bed extender according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 
2. Extend the truck bed extender over the cab of the truck and secure it in place. Make sure it’s securely fastened to the truck and won’t move during transport.
3. Line the truck bed with foam blocks or pool noodles to cushion the kayak and protect it from scratches.
4. Gently lift the kayak onto the truck bed, bottom-side up.
5. Position the kayak in the center of the truck bed and align it with the truck’s centerline.
6. Use tie-downs or straps to secure the kayak to the truck bed.
7. Give the kayak a gentle tug and shake to make sure it’s securely fastened to the truck bed and the extender.

Using A Kayak Truck Rack

1. Choose a kayak truck rack that is most suitable for your kayak and your truck. 
   • There are various types of kayak racks available, and you can install them on the truck’s bed or the roof, depending on their design.
   • If you’re looking for a truck bed rack, I recommend this YAKIMA Adjustable Overhaul Truck Rack. If you’re looking for a roof rack, I recommend this HUIMENG J-shaped Roof Rack.
2. Install the kayak rack according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and make sure it’s securely fastened to the truck bed or roof.
3. Place foam blocks or pool noodles on the crossbars of the kayak rack to cushion the kayak and protect it from scratches.
4. Gently lift the kayak onto the crossbars of the kayak rack, bottom-side up, and position it in the center of the rack, aligning it with the truck’s centerline.
5. Use tie-downs or straps to secure the kayak to the kayak rack.
6. Give the kayak a gentle tug and shake to make sure it’s securely fastened to the kayak rack and the truck bed or roof.

Other Aspects to Consider When Transporting A Kayak in A Truck

Now that you know the best methods for transporting a kayak in a truck, let’s take a look at some other aspects you need to consider to ensure that the transportation process will go as smoothly as possible.

Is It Better to Keep the Truck’s Tailgate Up or Down When Transporting A Kayak?

It is generally better to keep the truck’s tailgate up when transporting a kayak, as this can help create a more stable and secure setup. With the tailgate up, the kayak can rest against it and be further secured with straps or tie-downs, helping to prevent any movement or shifting during transport.

However, if the kayak is too long for the truck bed and needs to extend out beyond the tailgate, it may be necessary to keep the tailgate down in order to accommodate the length of the kayak. 

In this case, it’s important to use a truck bed extender or another appropriate method to secure the kayak and prevent it from moving or shifting during transport.

Overall, the best approach will depend on the specific dimensions of your kayak and truck bed, as well as the type of tie-downs or straps you’re using to secure the kayak.

Is It Better to Transport the Kayak with Cockpit Facing Up or Down?

It is generally better to transport a kayak with the cockpit facing down, as this can help protect the kayak’s interior from damage.

Transporting a kayak with the cockpit facing up can also make it more vulnerable to damage from wind and debris on the road, as well as potentially causing damage to the kayak’s cockpit rim or other components.

That being said, there may be certain situations where it’s necessary to transport the kayak with the cockpit facing up, such as when using a specific type of kayak carrier or when dealing with a kayak that’s particularly heavy or difficult to maneuver.

In these cases, be sure to take appropriate precautions to protect the kayak and ensure safe transport.

Can You Still Transport A Kayak in Your Truck If You Have A Camper Shell or Tonneau Cover Installed?

You can still transport a kayak in your truck if you have a camper shell or tonneau cover installed. However, you may need to use a different method than if you were transporting the kayak in an open truck bed.

One option is to use a truck bed extender or a specialized kayak carrier that attaches to the camper shell or tonneau cover. Another option is to use a roof rack mounted on the camper shell or tonneau cover, which can provide a secure and stable platform for transporting the kayak.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to ensure that the kayak is securely fastened and won’t shift or move during transport.

How to Properly Secure the Kayak During Transportation?

To properly secure your kayak during transportation, you need to use straps specifically designed for this purpose. 

You should use at least two straps to secure the kayak, with one end of each strap attached to the kayak’s grab handles and the other end to the tie-down points on the truck bed or rack. You can also use more tie-downs for extra security.

Next, tighten the straps firmly but not so tight as to damage the kayak’s hull. Once you have secured the kayak, give it a gentle tug to ensure that it is firmly in place.

Finally, try to check on the straps or tie-downs during transport to ensure they remain tight and secure.

How to Unload the Kayak from the Truck?

Now that you have successfully transported your kayak and reached your destination, you need to unload the kayak from the truck.

You need to be just as careful as you would be while loading the kayak to avoid accidentally dropping the kayak and causing any lasting damage.

Here are the steps you need to follow: 

1. Remove any straps or tie-downs that are securing the kayak to the truck.
2. Position yourself at the rear of the truck bed, with your feet firmly on the ground.
3. Lift the kayak up and onto the tailgate of the truck.
4. Slowly slide the kayak down the tailgate, making sure to support it with your hands to prevent it from slipping or dropping.
5. Once the kayak is on the ground, carefully lift it off the tailgate and place it on the ground or on a suitable surface for storage.
6. If you have a heavy kayak, or if you are having trouble lifting it, you may want to consider using a kayak cart or dolly to assist you in unloading it.

Here is a video that illustrates how to load and unload the kayak even if you have no one around to lend a hand:

Remember to take your time and be careful when unloading your kayak, especially if it is heavy or if you are not familiar with the process. 

Conclusion

Transporting a kayak in a truck can be highly convenient, but it’s important to do it correctly. By using the different methods outlined in this article and taking proper precautions, you can help ensure a safe and successful trip with your kayak.

Remember to always take your time, be careful, and enjoy your time on the water!

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