You can get various accessories to upgrade your pickup truck. For beginners, the most sought-after and widespread among them are truck racks. Being a new owner of a pickup truck or a new entrant in the world of truck accessories, choosing the ideal truck rack can be very intimidating.
Don't worry, this guide will lead you through everything. Discover exactly what these racks are, including their various types and benefits. Most importantly, learn what essential variables you should consider when determining which rack to purchase for your truck.
What Are Truck Racks?
Truck racks are modifications that help expand cargo space, gear setup, and general functionality. They are metal attachments that attach to various areas of the truck, such as the bed, roof, back window, and others. Truck racks can hold practically anything, particularly long and bulky things that do not fit in the truck bed.
Advantages of Using Truck Rack Systems
You’re missing out if your pickup truck doesn’t have a rack. They’re smart investments that offer the following advantages for truck owners:
Increased Cargo Space
Pickup trucks are popular for their cargo space. You can use yours to stack various items at different levels, from outdoor gear and boxes to lumber and even ladders. With truck racks, you can upgrade this cargo capacity.
Rack systems allow you to stack different types of items and equipment securely on top of one another. The racks, rails, bars, and other supports hold these things together. This reduces the risk of them falling out of your truck and damaging your truck.
At the same time, these systems add extra space for more cargo. Instead of just relying on the bed space, you have the racks, so you can haul more items. This is why if you need to use your truck to haul long and more items, getting a rack is your best option.
Versatility
There are different types of truck racks available. Whatever your specific needs are, there’s a rack for you. Whether you need it for hauling ladders or for your bikes, there are different systems designed to accommodate different equipment and items. Plus, these racks come in different models and configurations, so you can find one that will fit your truck for sure.
Rollover and Driver Protection
Truck racks protect your cargo and truck from damage. They offer protection for the back of your truck in case of a rollover. These racks are designed to withstand the impact of a rollover without crumpling. This protects your truck from too much damage and gives it more stability. Plus, certain racks can reduce the chances of the back window breaking.
In addition to this, truck racks also protect you, the driver. With the rollover protection, you’re less likely to get into a serious accident and acquire more serious injuries. Some racks can even reduce the glare in the cab, improving your visibility and driving experience.
Reduced Outer Shell Damage
Cargo can damage the truck’s back window and surface. This can be a hassle and costly to deal with—truck racks can prevent such incidents. With one, your cargo will not hit the back of the cab and scratch the paint off the surfaces. The cargo will be stacked properly and not be in contact with the window and surfaces, reducing the risks of outer shell damage.
Improved Truck Aesthetics
A truck rack makes a truck appear more rough, edgy, and work-ready. Depending on your preferences, this can enhance the appearance of your truck. Although it is a tiny benefit when compared to the others, it is nonetheless a useful trait. Plus, with your cargo more organized in the racks, everything looks better.
8 Different Types of Truck Racks and Their Uses
Depending on your preferences and needs, there are eight types of racks you can choose from.
1. Ladder Racks
Ladder racks, or contractor racks, are designed to carry and transport ladders. They typically have vertical posts at each corner of the truck bed and cross and lateral bars at the top to form a platform for the item. Still, some varieties extend over the entire truck to maximize the truck’s storage capacity.
You can also get some that are literal ladders, like the Front Runner Ladder Fits Toyota Land Cruiser 76. However, note that this is specifically designed for a Toyota Land Cruiser 76. This variety of ladder racks is specifically designed for certain vehicle models. These aren’t the same ladder racks, but many people call them the same, so it’s best to know the difference.
2. Headache Racks
Headache racks, or cab racks, are truck racks commonly used in the trades. They have two vertical supports near the cab (rear window) joined horizontally by crossbars. Headache racks, like ladder racks, are constructed from long-lasting materials like steel and aluminum. They also come in a variety of designs, including mesh, louvered, lighted, and plain frame styles.
The main purpose of these racks is to lift and hold the front section of a large load. Simultaneously, their position in the truck offers extra safeguarding to the cab's rear window from impacts and scratches. You can prevent broken glass, scratches, and dents.
3. Overland/Truck Bed Racks
Overland or truck bed racks, also called adventure racks, are shorter than conventional truck racks, like ladder racks. They only extend partially up the truck cab. Still, they’re constructed using sturdy materials.
These rack systems are widely used as secure mounting systems for different items. They feature multiple mounting locations for overland gear, like roof tents and camping supplies. This makes them ideal for people who have roof tents or those who are into camping.
4. Bike Racks
Bike racks are racks installed in truck beds. Although they come in different styles, they’re specifically designed to hold bikes securely. Depending on their design, they can hold up to four bikes at once. However, some racks may require you to remove the front wheel of your bike. If you don’t like this idea, make sure to look for one that can securely hold both wheels.
5. Cross Bars
Cross bars look more like rails, not like the other rack systems. They are actual bars installed across the width of the truck bed. Since they come in pairs, they form a platform where you can place your cargo. In comparison to other rack systems, these bars appear to have a more straightforward design.
You can use these to keep your skis, kayaks, fishing rods, snowboards, and other equipment safe during transportation. Some versions can also be equipped with tonneau covers, increasing the utility of your truck.
6. Side Mount Racks
Side mount racks are the simpler version of ladder racks. These are two vertical supports mounted to the passenger or driver’s front and rear corners of the bed. They have short crossbars and diagonal braces that provide extra support to what you’ll place in the racks.
A side mount rack is perfect for regular hauling of a ladder or any moderate amount of overhead cargo. Plus, since it’s only on one side, the bed is mostly clear for other things. This means that you can use most of the truck bed’s overhead space for tall cargo.
7. Platform Racks
Platform racks on pickup trucks are massive metal platforms that extend above the truck's bed. They have a broader, flat surface than rails, allowing you to store more cargo. Moreover, due to the platform's design, the goods are more stable on the rack. This will allow you to carry various materials, such as skis, boxes, and trunks, as well as a roof-top tent.
Take note that certain models are compatible with truck bed covers. Just make sure to check so you can enjoy double the storage space for your belongings.
8. Roof Racks
Roof racks are similar to platform racks, except they’re installed on the truck’s roof and not in the bed. It’s often installed with platform racks for maximum cargo capacity. You can stock these racks with many things, but particularly large ones. If you camp, one of these would be an intelligent purchase—you can use it for tents as well as for other equipment.
Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Rack
If you want to acquire a rack for your truck, here are some crucial items to consider:
Vehicle Compatibility
First and foremost, verify that the rack is suitable for the specific make and model of your pickup truck. This is to avoid any fitment issues and so that you can use it to the fullest extent. Check if it fits the truck bed length as well, especially for types installed in the bed. Vehicle compatibility will ensure optimal performance and easy installation.
Durability and Quality
Quality and durable racks ensure that you can use them for a long time. To guarantee these, look at the material of the rack. For sturdiness, your best options are steel and aluminum.
Steel racks are stronger than aluminum racks, so they will be less apt to bend. Conversely, while aluminum racks won't rust and corrode, steel racks will. This is something to take very seriously if you're going to be traveling to a location with abysmal weather. Aluminum racks are also lighter than steel racks, which may help you get better gas mileage.
Load Capacity
What is the total weight capacity of the rack system? Knowing this will help you ensure that the rack can safely carry your cargo, especially when you’re driving. So, make sure to check the bearing capacity or load rating of the rack before buying.
Additionally, consider if your truck can hold the weight of the rack and the load it will carry. Cross-check everything with your truck’s capacity. This way, you can ensure that you can find one that matches both your truck’s build and your hauling needs.
Ease of Installation
If you intend to install the rack system yourself, search for one that is simple to install. This means you can mount and install it with little equipment and knowledge. Of course, if you don't plan to or are unable to conduct a DIY installation, get expert assistance to ensure correct installation.
Cargo
Think about what you will be towing with the racks. If you carry long, thin items such as ladders, kayaks, or wood, a ladder rack is what you need. But if you have it carrying camp equipment, roof racks and platform racks are best. Why buy a ladder rack if you don’t transport long items?
Furthermore, if you think you need two racks for your track, make sure they’re compatible with each other. They should work together, both in terms of function and mounting location. For example, you can’t install both overland and platform racks—they’re both placed in your truck bed.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing a rack. These rack systems cost anywhere from $200 to $2000. Remember that numerous elements determine their pricing, such as the manufacturer, material, size, and kind of rack. A budget will be your reference point in shortening your list so you can purchase one that will not break your bank.
Compatibility With Other Accessories
There are other types of accessories for trucks other than rack systems. If you have an existing one in your truck or if you plan to get some in the future, make sure that the rack is compatible with them. For example, a tonneau cover is another popular accessory and can work with platform racks. This way, you don’t have to remove the rack just for the other accessories.
Get One For Your Truck Today!
Truck racks are smart investments for pickup truck owners. They improve the truck’s cargo space and capacity. At the same time, they can shield you and the truck from harm. Just make sure to consider the right elements when looking for the right one.
Ready to look for options? Visit our truck rack collection. We offer different types for different makes and at different prices. Choose one that best fits your needs!
