Measurements
Cargo dimensions.
| Length | Width | Height | Volume | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seats up | 38" | 47" | 32" | 47.9 cu ft |
| Seats folded | 81" | 47" | 32" | 87.8 cu ft |
| Opening | – | 45" | 30" | – |
What fits
What fits in a Ford Explorer?
Measure smart
What to measure.
Four numbers decide nearly every fit check. Get these right and the rest follows.
- 01The opening width and height of the trunk or liftgate, not just the total volume, since the opening is what an item has to pass through.
- 02The load-floor length behind the rear seats, then again with the seats folded.
- 03The height available under the roofline or parcel shelf, measured at the lowest point.
- 04Your item at its widest point, including feet, handles, and packaging.
Don't make these
Common mistakes.
Most “it didn't fit” stories trace back to one of these oversights.
- ⚠Trusting the cubic-foot figure and assuming a wide item will fit, when the opening is narrower than the item.
- ⚠Measuring the cargo floor but forgetting the roofline tapers toward the opening.
- ⚠Ignoring that a full-size spare, subwoofer, or hybrid battery eats into the quoted volume.
- ⚠Folding only one seat when the long item needs the full flat load floor.
Frequently asked
Questions we keep getting.
How much cargo space does an Explorer have?
The Ford Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet behind the 3rd row, 47.9 with the 3rd row folded, and 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded. The cargo floor extends to about 81" with all seats down.
01Explorer vs. Highlander for cargo?
The Explorer (87.8 cu ft max) edges out the Highlander (84.3 cu ft max). The Explorer has a wider cargo area (47" vs. 44") and longer max cargo length (81" vs. 78"). Both are excellent for furniture moves.
02Can I use the Explorer for moving furniture?
The Explorer is one of the best SUVs for moving — 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded handles most furniture except full-size couches and king beds. The wide 45" tailgate opening accepts most items easily.
03
Go deeper
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