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Sizing Up Truck Bed Parade Floats

truck parade float power lines1“I’m Using an Inflatable in the Back of My Truck at a Local Parade, How Big Can I Make It?”

Using custom inflatables in truck beds is a very popular option for parades because they’re easy to set-up, cost-effective, and require very little management. There are two basic configurations for hauling custom inflatables on the back of a truck; inside the truck bed or on a platform above the truck bed. The dimensions of your inflatable will be based on which configuration you use.

#1. Place the Inflatable Inside the Truck Bed

        • Recommended height: 9 feet
        • Maximum base dimensions for parade balloon: 3 feet wide x 4 feet long

Tip: We suggest adding a pedestal to the bottom of a parade inflatable. The pedestal will lift the inflatable so that it will be seen over the top of the truck bed.

#2. Build a Platform for the Truck Bed & Place Inflatable on Top

  • Recommended height: 7.4 feet
  • No need for an additional pedestal on your custom inflatable
  • Base dimensions: 3 feet wide x 4 feet long

Tip: A 12-13 foot height restriction is typical for parade floats due to power lines. Be sure to check your specific parade rules and regulations for size requirements.

Looking for parade float inspiration and ideas? Browse our online gallery full of inflatable parade balloons that are sure to get your creative juices flowing!


View More "Installation Tips and Tricks" Articles

Plugging In Your Inflatable
How to Set Up & Take Down Truck Bed Parade Floats
All About Blowers | Custom Inflatables Accessories
All About Ballasts - Securing Custom Inflatables

What Others Say About Landmark Creations


The inflatable complements our messaging since Ivar’s is a quirky restaurant that’s known for its antics.

- J. Werth, Ivar's Restaurant

"Just wanted to say how much we LOVE our inflatables.  We tested them in our lobby where they were, of course, an instant hit for school group photos. Our leadership was quite pleased with the durability and the realism."

- Mike Hennessy, Carnegie Science Center

"We had the inflatable hockey player out in front of the coliseum and it caused such a crowd! Thanks for the professional job you and your company did for me!"

- Scott Adams, Liquid Box Inc.

“The likeness to our company mascot was amazing. We used the balloon at the Winn Dixie Home & Garden show ... and we have had rave reviews.”

- Christy Bernard, Tony Chachere’s

"Landmark created two inflatable Truman the Tigers for us, and they were incredibly easy to work with, as well as very affordable."

- Michelle Froese, Missouri University

"Simply put, the bobbleheads were a real hit at TwinsFest. Over 21,000 fans attended the two-day event raising more than $100,000 for the Twins Community Fund charities."

- Heidi Sammon, Minnesota Twins