Entry height changes with load, terrain, and truck suspension. Measuring correctly before ordering prevents the wrong step count.
The most common mistake when buying truck camper steps is guessing the step count. A truck camper entry can be higher than it looks, and entry height changes after the camper is loaded, the suspension settles, and the truck is parked on terrain that is not level. Ordering steps based on an unloaded truck in a flat driveway can mean too few steps when you are at a campsite with the camper loaded and the ground sloped.
This article covers how to measure for truck camper steps, why entry height changes, and what to confirm before ordering.
Why Entry Height Changes After Loading
An empty truck bed is higher off the ground than a loaded truck bed. When the camper is placed in the bed, the truck's suspension compresses under the weight. The entry door drops. The amount of compression depends on the truck, the camper weight, and the suspension setup. This means the entry height you see on an empty truck is not the entry height you need to measure for steps.
Another common situation is when you arrive at your camping site. Often times, truck camper owners need a certain amount of steps when the truck is loaded into the truck bed but when they arrive at the campground and the camper is off-loaded and on jacks, a different step variation is needed.
The Measurement That Matters Most
Measure from the ground to the bottom of the camper entry door (or the mounting surface, depending on the step system) with the camper loaded on the truck. This is the real entry height. Measure on a level surface to establish a baseline, then consider that campsite terrain may add or subtract height depending on slope and surface.
Step Measurement Checklist
| Measurement or Factor | Why It Matters | What to Write Down | What to Confirm Before Ordering |
| Ground to camper entry door (loaded) | This is the actual height the steps must cover. | Height in inches. | Measure with the camper loaded and the truck on level ground. |
| Camper bumper or mounting surface width | Determines whether the step system fits the available mounting area. | Width in inches. | Compare to product specifications on the GlowStep Stow N' Go page. |
| Ground surface at typical campsites | Uneven ground changes effective entry height. | Note common campsite surfaces: gravel, dirt, concrete, grass. | Consider All Terrain Landing Gear for uneven terrain (if compatible). |
| Step count needed | More height = more steps for comfortable step spacing. | Divide total height by approximate step rise to estimate count. | Confirm step count options on the product page or with Torklift support. |
| Loaded vs. unloaded truck height | Loading the camper compresses the suspension and changes entry height. | Measure both if possible. Use loaded measurement for ordering. | Always order based on loaded entry height, not unloaded. |
What If I Camp on Uneven Ground?
Most campsite surfaces are not perfectly level. Gravel, dirt, sloped sites, and soft ground all change the effective entry height. A step system that adapts to terrain, or accessories that provide adjustable ground contact, help the steps work on surfaces that are different from the level driveway where you measured. The included All Terrain Landing Gear provides adjustable feet for this purpose.
Recommended Torklift Step System
GlowStep Stow N' Go is designed for truck camper owners who need adjustable step count, external storage, and terrain adaptability. Measure the loaded entry height, check the mounting surface, and verify step count options on the product page before ordering.
Contact Torklift support with measurement questions. We can help confirm the right step count and configuration for your truck and camper.
Key Takeaways
- Measure entry height with the camper loaded on the truck, not with an empty bed.
- Entry height changes with camper weight, suspension compression, and campsite terrain.
- Step count depends on the loaded entry height. More height means more steps.
- GlowStep Stow N' Go offers adjustable step count for truck camper applications.
- Contact Torklift support before ordering if you are unsure about measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure for truck camper steps?
Measure from the ground to the camper entry door with the camper loaded on the truck. Use a level surface for baseline.
How many steps do I need?
It depends on loaded entry height. More height requires more steps for comfortable spacing. Check step count options on the product page.
Why does entry height change after loading?
The truck's suspension compresses under the camper's weight, lowering the entry door.
Should I measure from the door or bumper?
Measure from the ground to the camper entry door (or mounting surface, depending on the step system). Confirm with the product page.
What if I camp on uneven ground?
Included All Terrain Landing Gear for adjustable ground contact. Uneven terrain changes effective entry height.
Should I contact Torklift before ordering?
Yes, if you are unsure about measurements, step count, or fitment. Call or email Torklift support.