storing power cord on new f'ver

All cords are not created equally. Consider a shorter more flexible cord.
A shorter cord will be easier to store. 36' is excessive

I just bought a shorter one as the one that came with it is just to hard to coil up. I bought a 25ft one coils up nicely.

Milk crate

Don't think the 3 gal bucket will work (sorry O-B.....couldn't resist). Seriously OP, you'll have to see what others say. Have seen reels in basement (like garden hose reels..to get the idea), power reels and plain ol man handling the cord. A 36' 50 AMP is one HUGE Anaconda !!

it is a 50 amp cord and is 36 feet long.

30 or 50 amp cord?

Get a short bucket....3 gallon size
Coil the power cord into bucket. Snap on the lid
Then place in pass thru compartment or bed of truck for travel