A truck rack is a great way to maximize space and improve your hauling efficiency. But there are a variety of styles available, each offering different features, benefits, and uses.
In this guide, we provide a detailed overview of the most common types of truck racks and what they are used for, so you can find the best option for your needs.
Popular types of truck racks include:
1. Truck Bed Racks
As the name suggests, truck bed racks mount directly to your bed rails, creating an elevated storage space for hauling cargo. They’re an incredibly versatile rack option, giving you the ability to carry larger and/or longer items without sacrificing all your bed space.
These racks are a popular option for outfitting both work trucks and recreational vehicles alike. Whether you’re loading up job site materials or gearing up for a weekend adventure, a truck bed rack can help keep everything organized and secure.
There are several types of truck bed racks available, each designed for different needs and applications. Some of the most popular styles are cross bar racks and overland racks.
Cross Bar Racks
A cross bar rack is a style of bed rack that consists of two horizontal bars that span the width of the truck bed. They are often height-adjustable and designed to work with a variety of mounts and accessories, creating a sturdy and versatile base for carrying all your gear.
Cross bar racks are a great choice if you want to maximize cargo space while maintaining the flexibility to haul a wide range of gear.
Overland Racks
Overland racks are a type of truck bed rack designed primarily for overland setups. They usually feature a heavy-duty, full-frame design that extends above the bed, with multiple mounting points for gear and accessories.
These racks are ideal for items like roof tents, fuel cans, recovery gear, and any other overlanding equipment. Many are also modular, allowing you to customize your setup based on your needs.
Overland racks are built with off-road and long-distance travel in mind, making them ideal for anyone looking to maximize their truck’s utility and carrying capability.
2. Lumber Rack (Ladder Rack)
A lumber rack, also known as a contractor or ladder rack, is a type of truck rack designed primarily for commercial use. These heavy-duty rack systems are mounted to the truck bed and often extend over the cab, providing elevated storage for items like lumber, ladders, and more.
Lumber racks are commonly used by contractors, tradespeople, and anyone who regularly carries oversized loads. By distributing weight more evenly, they make it safer and easier to transport materials that would otherwise be difficult to secure.
Lumber racks typically come in either round tube variations or square tube options, depending on your needs:
Round Tube Racks
Square Tube Racks
Utility Racks
Utility racks are a type of lumber rack designed to mount onto the body of a service truck. These commercial vehicles function like mobile workshops, replacing the standard truck bed with lockable compartments.
Utility racks are the go-to choice for these kinds of vehicles, allowing you to carry items overhead while still having full access to the specialized compartments.
3. Headache Racks
A headache rack mounts directly behind the cab of the truck, creating a protective barrier between the bed and the rear window. Its primary purpose is to prevent cargo from damaging the cab or injuring passengers. It also provides a secure place to mount tools or accessories like lights and toolboxes.
Headache racks are commonly used to:
- Secure long cargo: position boards, ladders, and pipes over the cab using the rack’s top bar and integrated load stops
- Protect passengers in the cab: creates a safety barrier between passengers and large, shifting cargo
- Enhance storage options: commonly used alongside other rack systems, like lumber racks
- Mount accessories: including mounting options for lights, toolboxes, and other accessories
Whether you’re hauling tools to a job site or want to keep gear secure on your next off-roading adventure, a headache rack can help you accomplish just that.
4. Truck Roof Racks
Truck roof racks are mounted to the top of the cab, giving you extra cargo storage when the bed is already full.
There are a few styles of roof racks available, each built for different types of cargo:
- Crossbar Racks: Two horizontal bars that run across the width of the cab. These are the most common systems and serve as a base for mounting accessories like cargo boxes or platform racks.
- Platform Racks: A full-length, flat rack that covers most of the roof. These provide a stable surface for securing gear.
- Basket Racks: Designed with raised side rails to help secure smaller cargo or spare tires.
A truck roof rack is great for maximizing your cargo capacity without interfering with your bed setup, making it a solid option for overflow storage when space is tight.
5. Truck Bike Racks
Truck bike racks are designed specifically for transporting bicycles safely and securely with your truck. They come in a few different mounting styles, allowing you to choose a setup that works best with your truck and how you use it.
Some bike racks mount inside the bed, typically securing the bike by the front fork or wheel. Hitch-mounted racks attach to your truck’s hitch receiver and come in hanging or platform styles. There are also electric bike racks designed specifically to support the weight and frame of e-bikes.
Whether you’re heading to the trailhead or out on a road trip, a truck bike rack is a secure solution for transporting your gear.
Find the Best Truck Rack for Your Needs at a Campway’s Near You
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all truck rack. Whether for work, play, or a mix of both, the right truck rack depends on how you use your vehicle.
At Campway’s, you’ll find a wide selection of truck racks designed to handle everything from heavy-duty work to weekend adventures and everything in between. Our team can help you compare options, answer questions, and get you set up with a rack that fits your truck and your needs perfectly.
Explore our selection online or stop by the Campway’s nearest you to get expert service and guidance in person.
