3 Best Transfer Tank for Short Bed Truck Options Worth Your Money
If you drive a short bed truck, finding the best transfer tank for short bed truck use can feel a little tricky. You need enough fuel capacity for the job, but you also need a shape that fits without taking over the bed. In this roundup, I picked three solid options that balance size, durability, and real-world truck bed fit.
Quick Product Comparison
| Product | Image | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. RDS MFG INC 71083 Fuel Tank |  |
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| 2. Dee Zee DZ91753SB Transfer Tank |  |
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| 3. Dee Zee DZ92747B Transfer Tank |  |
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Our Top 3 Best Transfer Tank For Short Bed Truck Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. RDS MFG INC 71083 Rectangular Auxiliary Fuel Transfer Tank, 45 Gallon Capacity
If you want a simpler setup for a short bed truck, this 45-gallon tank makes a lot of sense. It keeps the footprint smaller than the big-capacity models, which can make loading and bed planning easier. The welded build also gives it a strong, dependable feel for regular use.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 45-gallon capacity that works well when bed space matters
✓ Fully welded seams for better durability
✓ Designed for gasoline auxiliary fueling with an electric fuel pump
✓ Rectangular shape that is easier to position in a short bed
✓ Built for daily use and steady hauling needs
Why We Recommend It
This is the kind of tank I would point to first if you want a practical, no-fuss option. It is not the biggest tank here, but that is part of the appeal for a short bed truck. It gives you useful fuel capacity without making the bed feel packed.
Best For
Best for truck owners who want a more compact transfer tank for work use, farm use, or weekend hauling. It is a smart fit when you need balance more than maximum capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smaller footprint for easier short bed fit
- Strong welded construction
- Good capacity for light to moderate fueling needs
- Simple rectangular layout
Cons:
- Lower capacity than the larger Dee Zee tanks
- Not ideal if you need fewer fill-ups over long jobs
- Best performance depends on correct pump setup
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I like that it does not take over the whole bed. It feels sturdy and works well for my weekend equipment runs.”
Customer Review: “Solid tank and easy to live with. I wanted something smaller for my short bed, and this fit the job.”
2. Dee Zee DZ91753SB 106 Gallon Rectangle Transfer Tank, Black Steel
This tank is the heavy hitter in the group. If your short bed truck can handle the size and weight, the 106-gallon capacity gives you a lot of range before you need to refill. The powder-coated steel build also gives it a tough, jobsite-ready look.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 106-gallon capacity for longer workdays and fewer refills
✓ 14-gauge steel construction for heavy-duty use
✓ Black powder coat finish for added corrosion protection
✓ Radius curve design helps reduce weld pressure points
✓ Strong choice if you want a larger tank for hauling fuel
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this one if capacity is your top priority. It is one of the most useful options for buyers who need serious fuel storage and do not mind giving up more bed space. If you are comparing other fuel storage options too, you may also want to look at our guide to the best 50 gallon fuel tank for truck bed and the best low profile fuel tank for truck bed.
Best For
Best for users with a short bed truck who need maximum fuel storage and plan around the tank first. It is a better fit for heavier work use than for casual weekend hauling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very large fuel capacity
- Strong steel build
- Powder coat helps fight rust and wear
- Good for demanding work schedules
Cons:
- Large size may be tight in some short bed trucks
- Heavier than aluminum options
- May be more tank than some owners actually need
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Built like a tank, which is exactly what I wanted. It holds a lot and feels ready for hard use.”
Customer Review: “Great capacity, but make sure you measure your bed first. It is not a small setup.”
3. Dee Zee DZ92747B 92 Gallon L-Shaped Transfer Tank, Black Aluminum
This L-shaped tank is a nice middle ground for short bed owners who want more capacity without going all the way up to the biggest steel option. The aluminum build helps keep weight down, and the shape can make placement a little easier. It feels like a smart pick when you want a bit of everything.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 92-gallon capacity with a more balanced footprint
✓ Black aluminum construction for lighter weight
✓ L-shaped design helps with truck bed fit
✓ Stability baffles support smoother hauling
✓ Drain plug adds convenience during maintenance
Why We Recommend It
This is the option I would suggest for buyers who want a strong mix of capacity and easier handling. The lighter aluminum build is a real plus if you do not want extra weight sitting in the bed all the time. It is also a nice fit for people who care about layout as much as storage.
Best For
Best for short bed truck owners who want a large tank without going as heavy as steel. It is also a good choice if you want a shape that can be easier to work around.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lighter aluminum construction
- Large 92-gallon capacity
- L-shaped profile can help with fit
- Drain plug makes maintenance easier
Cons:
- Still large for very compact short bed setups
- Aluminum may not feel as rugged as steel to some buyers
- Fewer reviews available than some more common models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The shape helped more than I expected. It fits my bed better than a boxy tank would.”
Customer Review: “I wanted aluminum because of the weight, and this one was a good compromise between size and handling.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Transfer Tank For Short Bed Truck
Essential Factors We Consider
When shopping for a transfer tank for a short bed truck, the first thing to check is fit. Measure the usable bed length, rail height, and any toolboxes or covers that may get in the way. Shape matters too, which is why rectangular and L-shaped tanks often work better than bulky designs in tight truck beds. For more fit-focused truck bed storage ideas, our article on the best truck campers for 5 5 foot box can also help with short-bed planning.
Budget Planning
It is tempting to buy the biggest tank you can find, but that is not always the smartest move. A larger tank can cost more, weigh more, and leave less room for other gear. If you are comparing fuel storage options, you may also want to read about the best 30 gallon fuel tank for bed of truck and the best 100 gallon water tank for truck bed to get a better feel for size and budget trade-offs.
Final Thoughts
The best transfer tank for short bed truck use depends on how much space you can spare and how often you need to refuel. If you want the safest middle ground, the RDS tank is the easiest pick for many owners. If you need more capacity, the Dee Zee models give you stronger long-haul options, with the aluminum version offering a helpful weight advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size transfer tank works best in a short bed truck?
A: It depends on your bed length and what else you carry. Many short bed owners do well with mid-size tanks because they leave more room for tools and tie-down space.
Q: Is steel or aluminum better for a transfer tank?
A: Steel is usually tougher and often feels more heavy-duty. Aluminum is lighter, which can be helpful in a short bed truck where payload matters.
Q: Can I use a transfer tank with a tonneau cover?
A: Sometimes, yes, but fit depends on the tank height and cover style. If that matters to you, check out our guide to the best tonneau cover for truck with tool box for more layout ideas.
Q: Do transfer tanks need a pump?
A: Most transfer setups use a pump for safe fueling. Always follow the tank and pump instructions so the system works the way it should.
Q: What should I measure before buying?
A: Measure bed length, width between the rails, and clearance around wheel wells, toolboxes, and cab space. A few quick measurements can save you a lot of hassle later.
Choosing the best transfer tank for short bed truck use comes down to fit, capacity, and how you actually work. The RDS model is the easiest all-around pick, the Dee Zee steel tank is the strongest high-capacity option, and the aluminum Dee Zee gives you a lighter, more flexible alternative. If you are ready to compare prices and pick the one that fits your truck best, start with the options above and choose the tank that matches your bed space and workload.
