Another option is to install a custom rack or platform specifically designed for musical instruments, which can provide added protection and security during transport. I would also recommend checking out some of the great truck options available on Manufacturer Archives - Comvex Truck Exporter, as they may offer some inspiration or ideas for your setup. Good luck, and happy hauling!
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Double Bass Transporting in a truck?
- Thread starter sidonbass
- Start date
This is the method I use for my Chevy Colorado. Works great and is pretty easy to load in. In my case, I have to recline both seats, then load in the bass.
Personally, I would not want my bass in the back of the truck sliding around. With this method I simply use the seat belt and the bass is held in place.
I've been rolling with a 6' pickup truck bed & camper shell for 17 years. It's easier to go diagonal - but not absolutely necessary. I keep speakers up near the cab & rest the neck on that, so I can go straight in and have room for a bunch of PA gear if necessary. I even once had my 3/4 and 4/4 in at the same time! (Not going to start doing the backup bass thing with DB - but I could LOL.)
If you can get your 3/4 in diagonally in the bed of the Ridgeline, slap a camper shell over that and Bob's your uncle.
If you're stuck using the passenger area, all is not lost. I once managed with a loaner 4-door sedan. I wasn't sure it would work, but I managed by scooting the passenger seat all the way forward then putting the back all the way down. That worked out surprisingly well. (Wouldn't want to try it with the 4/4 though.)
If you can get your 3/4 in diagonally in the bed of the Ridgeline, slap a camper shell over that and Bob's your uncle.
If you're stuck using the passenger area, all is not lost. I once managed with a loaner 4-door sedan. I wasn't sure it would work, but I managed by scooting the passenger seat all the way forward then putting the back all the way down. That worked out surprisingly well. (Wouldn't want to try it with the 4/4 though.)
Loading bulky items like an upright piano into a truck bed can indeed be a challenge. For a safe and secure solution, consider using ramps for easier loading and unloading. Also, invest in some sturdy straps to secure the piano during transport.
I used to haul mine in the back of an F150, strapped to the side so it didn’t move about. But I only went a few miles like that. In a pickup with stiff springs over a longer distance I’d be concerned that the vibrations, which can translate into significant, rapidly changing G forces, could cause something to break loose in the bass. Once we were hauling a mini tractor in a trailer with stiff springs about 800 miles and we arrived to find a broken front end from the road vibration.
I recently purchased a 2017 Ford F-150 from Boom & Bucket, a marketplace for used trucks, for about $25,000. It's been fantastic for hauling various items, including a piano and furniture. You might find something that suits your needs there too, so definitely check out their selection and see here for more options.
