Truck Covers: Full Pickup Covers vs. Cab Covers vs. Bed Covers
Updated November 1, 2026
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Short answer: "truck cover" can mean three different products. A full truck cover covers the whole pickup like a car cover; a cab-area cover covers the cab and leaves the bed open; a bed cover (tonneau) covers only the cargo bed and is used while you drive. Choose by where the truck is parked and what you need to protect.
Which type do you need?
| Type | Protects | Use while driving? | Best for | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full truck cover | Paint, glass, cab and bed | No | Long-term outdoor parking, sun and snow | Full truck covers |
| Cab-area cover | Cab paint and glass; bed left open | No | Trucks with a rack, toolbox or shell | Cab covers |
| Bed cover (tonneau) | Cargo bed only | Yes | Keeping cargo dry and out of sight | Tonneau covers |
Tonneaus are a separate buying decision; see our truck bed cover guide.
How to size a truck cover
- Note the cab style (regular, extended/double, crew) and bed length (short, standard, long), which are on your build sheet or dealer listing.
- Pick a cover made for that cab and bed combination, or measure overall length bumper to bumper and pick the next size up.
- Check that it has mirror pockets and room for an antenna, a lift kit or roof lights.
Materials by weather
- Sun: reflective or UV-treated fabric; see sun covers.
- Rain and snow: a waterproof-but-breathable fabric, so moisture doesn't stay trapped against the paint (waterproof covers).
- Hail: padded covers reduce small-hail dings but are bulky (hail covers).
Fitting a big cover without scratches
Wash or at least rinse the truck first, so grit isn't dragged across the paint. Unroll the cover from front to back, use a step stool for the roof, and use the underbody straps in wind. More on picking outdoor fabrics: outdoor car covers.
FAQ
Will a car cover fit a pickup?
Usually not well. Pickups are longer and taller than most cars, and the bed changes the shape; buy a cover listed for trucks.
Can I drive with a full truck cover on?
No. Full and cab covers are for parked vehicles only.