How to Fit a Mattress Into a Minivan

If you're moving a mattress from one location to another, taking it in a minivan can be a great way to do so. The size and interior layout of minivans can vary slightly, but most can handle several mattress sizes. Proper planning and having the right supplies on hand will help make the move go smoothly. Here's how to do it.

Begin this project by measuring the mattress. Mattresses come in several sizes, including twin and twin XL (both of which are singles), full, queen, king, and California king. Standard dimensions are:

• Twin: 38 x 75 inches.
• Twin XL: 38 x 80 inches.
• Full: 54 x 74 or 75 inches.
• Queen: 60 x 80 inches.
• King: 76 x 80 inches.
• California king: 72 x 84 inches.

Although standard mattress sizes are fairly consistent, you should measure your specific mattress with a tape measure.

Now that you know the exact dimensions of the mattress you want to move, you need to measure your minivan. The best way to do this is to collapse or remove the seats in the middle and third row of the minivan. This will create a flat surface on which to place the mattress. Measure the flat area to see if the dimensions match those of the mattress you want to transport. If the mattress is not a perfect fit lengthwise or widthwise, may be able to position the mattress diagonally if it will not lie flat.

Protect the mattress from the elements and from getting dirty during transport by placing it in a mattress bag or cover. Be sure to purchase the correct size for your mattress. If you don't have a mattress cover, you can use a tarp or a large sheet of plastic, but a mattress cover is best. To further protect the mattress, use packing tape to reinforce the cover. You can also wrap the mattress in stretch wrap or bubble wrap to provide additional protection.

Carry the mattress to the minivan with the assistance of a second person for a better grip and maneuvering and to help prevent injury; a dolly or hand truck might also come in handy. A mattress can weigh anywhere from 45 pounds for a twin-size mattress to 100 pounds for a king-size or special mattress. It's best for the mattress if you move it while holding it vertically. Carrying a mattress horizontally may damage it by causing it to bend.

The best and easiest way to get the mattress into the minivan is through the rear door. If it fits, lay the mattress flat. If you need to place it at an angle, support it by placing materials underneath it to help prop it up. Failure to do so could cause bending and damage to the mattress. Before you drive away, make sure the mattress doesn't block your view.

Transporting the mattress inside the minivan should be your first choice since a rooftop transport could potentially damage the mattress by exposing it to pollutants and the elements during the drive. If you're not able to fit the mattress into the cargo space of the minivan, you can transport it on the roof of your vehicle. However, you should only do this if the minivan has a roof rack. Use tie-downs to secure the covered mattress to the roof rack as tightly as possible and confirm the mattress in no way obstructs your view.