The Canter truck is one of the most widely used light commercial vehicles in Indonesia and many parts of the world. Known for its reliability, maneuverability, and versatility, the Canter is a favorite choice for logistics, retail deliveries, construction materials, and even agricultural transport. A crucial feature that often guides purchasing decisions is the size of its cargo bed, or what many refer to as the bak truk. Understanding the dimensions and variations of the Canter truck bed helps businesses choose the right configuration to meet their needs effectively.
Overview of Canter Truck Models
Variants Based on Load Capacity
Mitsubishi Fuso Canter trucks come in several variants based on their Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), which directly influences the size of the truck bed. The common classifications include:
- Canter 110 PS (Light Duty)
- Canter 125 PS (Medium Duty)
- Canter 136 PS (Heavy Duty)
Each variant supports different cargo needs, and this diversity is reflected in the available bed sizes.
Chassis Configuration
The Canter is available in several chassis configurations, such as standard, long, and super long wheelbases. The longer the chassis, the larger the cargo bed it can accommodate. Body builders and truck modification workshops customize the bed size according to these configurations.
Typical Bed Sizes of Canter Trucks
Canter Standard Size
For standard Canter models, the cargo bed generally measures:
- Length: 3.0 to 3.5 meters
- Width: 1.7 to 1.8 meters
- Height: 0.4 to 0.6 meters
This size is ideal for urban deliveries, light cargo, and routes with narrow streets.
Canter Long and Super Long
For Canter trucks with extended chassis, the bed sizes increase accordingly:
- Length: 4.0 to 5.2 meters
- Width: 1.8 to 2.0 meters
- Height: 0.5 to 0.7 meters
These sizes are more suitable for transporting construction materials, agricultural goods, and larger commercial loads.
Customized Bed Dimensions
Many Canter owners opt for customized truck beds depending on the intended use. This is common in logistics, where specific types of loads such as glass, gas cylinders, or livestock require tailored bed dimensions and reinforcements. Customization also includes side walls, tarpaulin covers, and lifting mechanisms.
Factors Influencing Bed Size Selection
Nature of Cargo
The type and weight of cargo play a big role in determining the suitable bed size. For instance:
- Furniture transport may require a longer and wider bed.
- Construction debris needs more depth and side support.
- Grocery deliveries require moderate length with a covered top.
Road and Environmental Conditions
In mountainous or rural areas with narrow roads, a standard Canter with a shorter bed is easier to handle. For flat and open roads, longer variants provide more space and efficiency in transporting large quantities in one trip.
Legal Weight Limits
Government regulations also affect the maximum allowable bed size, as the truck’s overall length and weight must not exceed local transport laws. Overloading or oversizing can result in fines, reduced vehicle lifespan, and safety hazards.
Material and Design of Truck Beds
Material Options
The truck bed (bak truk) can be made from different materials depending on the intended use:
- Steel: Durable and suited for heavy-duty transport
- Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion
- Wood: Traditional, economical, but requires more maintenance
Design Variations
Bed design can also be adapted based on the cargo. Some popular options include:
- Flatbed (without walls)
- Box type (enclosed cargo area)
- Open-top with foldable sides
- Hydraulic lift bed (dump truck variant)
Popular Applications of Canter Truck Beds
Retail and Distribution
Small and medium-sized retailers often use standard-sized Canters to transport boxes of products from warehouses to retail outlets. The medium-sized bed is sufficient for this purpose and provides ease of parking and maneuvering.
Construction Material Transport
Long bed Canters are suitable for carrying sand, cement, iron rods, and bricks. They often include reinforced flooring and higher walls to prevent spillage.
Mobile Services and Conversions
Some businesses convert Canter beds into mobile kitchens, clinics, or event stalls. These modifications involve significant adjustments to the size and design of the bed but are made possible by the truck’s durable frame.
Maintenance Tips for Truck Beds
Rust Prevention
Regular cleaning and application of anti-rust coatings are essential, especially for steel beds exposed to moisture or chemicals.
Periodic Inspections
Inspect the joints, hinges, and flooring for signs of damage or fatigue. Welded joints should be tight and free of cracks.
Load Balancing
Even weight distribution prevents damage to the truck bed and ensures safe handling during transportation. Avoid overloading one side, especially on longer beds.
The size of the Canter truck bed, or ‘ukuran bak truk Canter,’ varies based on model, chassis length, and intended use. Whether it’s the standard 3-meter bed or an extended 5-meter variant, the Canter’s flexibility makes it an excellent choice across many sectors. Understanding the available configurations and selecting the appropriate size can greatly enhance operational efficiency. Buyers should consider cargo type, road conditions, legal limits, and long-term maintenance when choosing the right Canter bed size for their business.