A ladder rack turns a pickup or van into a real work truck – ladders, lumber, pipe and kayaks ride up top and the bed stays free for tools. Here's how to choose the right rack and what to know before you load it.
Types of truck and van racks
- Bed-mount ladder racks – two or more uprights clamp or bolt to the bed rails, with crossbars above the cab line. They're easy to remove and work with most pickups.
- Over-cab racks – extend forward over the cab to support long ladders and lumber at both ends. The best choice for contractors carrying long loads.
- Van ladder racks – mount to the roof of cargo vans, often with adjustable bars and extensions.
- Overland and cargo racks – low-profile bed racks for rooftop tents, recovery boards and gear, popular on Tacomas and Gladiators.
For cargo vans, a two-bar rack like the TrailFX FCLR004W Universal 2-Bar Adjustable Van Ladder Rack is a common starting point. Check the listing for your van's roof and confirm fitment before you order.
On mid-size trucks and Jeeps, a low-profile bed rack such as the Fabtech FTS26095 Cargo Rack for 2015-2023 Toyota Tacoma carries tents, recovery boards and gear while keeping the bed usable.
Shop Ladder Racks, Van Racks and all Racks.
Things to check before you buy
- Weight capacity – check the rack's rating and remember your truck's payload and the roof's limits still apply.
- Bed length and rail style – short, standard and long beds need different spacing. Tonneau covers and toolboxes can also affect fitment.
- Height – make sure the loaded height clears your garage, drive-thrus and job site entrances.
- Material – steel is strong and affordable; aluminum is lighter and won't rust.
- Compatibility – if you run a tonneau cover or a crossover toolbox, choose a rack designed to work with it.
Installing a bed-mount rack
- Confirm the rack matches your bed length and model year.
- Assemble the uprights and crossbars loosely on the ground.
- Set the uprights on the bed rails and attach the clamps or mounting hardware.
- Square the rack to the bed and center it side to side.
- Tighten everything to the instructions' torque specs.
- Re-check all hardware after the first loaded trip and periodically after that.
Load it safely
- Tie down every load with rated ratchet straps at two or more points.
- Keep weight centered and as low as possible.
- Flag long loads. Many states require a red flag or light on loads that extend well past the tailgate (commonly 4 feet) – check your state's rules.
- Drive slower in crosswinds; a loaded rack catches wind.
Carrying longer loads on a van? An add-on like the TrailFX FCLR006W Universal Van Rack Ladder Rack Extension adds support. Confirm it works with your rack before you order.
Need help picking a rack for your bed and cover setup? Use the vehicle selector, chat with our parts finder, or call (919) 283-6645.
Always follow the rack manufacturer's instructions and weight ratings.