Summary
- Some of the best bed racks on the market today are from the brands Access, Go Rhino, and Putco.
- When choosing the right bed rack for your truck, you can start by picking between the two main types: overlander bed racks and universal use bed racks.
- Truck bed racks offer several benefits, including increased cargo capacity, versatility, and improved organization.
It can be tempting to simply toss your bikes or skis in your truck bed and call it a day, but you’d be missing an important step. When hauling bulky cargo, securing the load is a must. Otherwise, you risk letting your cargo fall and causing an accident. To safely transport cargo of various shapes and sizes, consider investing in a high-quality bed rack system.
What’s the Best Bed Rack for Your Truck?
Here are some of the best bed rack brands on the market:
Access Bed Rack

Consider an Access truck rack for transporting big, long cargo such as ladders, pipes, and lumber. Access produces durable and custom-designed racks that typically come in a sleek matte black or silver finish.
The brand’s Adarac racks are especially well-made, with contoured and adjustable rails for better aerodynamics and visibility.
Go Rhino Bed Rack

If you’re on a budget, Go Rhino has several affordable yet reliable bed racks in its catalog. This brand produces high-quality racks with improved cargo capacity, heavy-duty build quality, and a rugged aesthetic perfect for adventurous off-roaders.
Most Go Rhino bed racks are easy to install and compatible with various accessories. However, some products aren’t compatible with tonneau covers.
Putco Bed Rack

Putco offers several bed racks that are lightweight, durable, and compatible with various accessories. Most Putco bed rack systems are lightweight and heavy-duty because they’re made from aluminum. You can also invest in several of their bed rack accessories, including side plates and elevated cross rails.
How To Choose the Right Truck Bed Rack System
When it comes to choosing the right bed rack, you have to consider more than just the brand. Accessories, design, and size are all important factors to mull over, but choosing a type is a great place to start.
Between an overland bed rack and a universal use bed rack, let’s find out which best suits your needs.
Overland Bed Racks
If you frequently travel long distances through unpaved areas, then an overland truck rack might be the one for you. Overland bed racks typically have a multi-function design. They’re compatible with various camping accessories, making them perfect for overlanders.
Depending on the design, you can install a rooftop tent, secure water and fuel containers, and attach storage pods.
Universal Use Bed Racks
If you’re a truck owner who doesn’t need the frills of overland bed racks but still want to maximize your cargo space, then this is the type of bed rack for you. Also known as ladder racks, universal use bed racks are less versatile than overland bed racks, but they get the job done. They’re perfect for transporting heavy cargo, such as ladders, kayaks, and pipes.
Why You Should Get a Truck Bed Rack
Nowadays, the market is chock-full of so many truck accessories that it can be hard to figure out which ones are actually worth it. Considering their many benefits, however, it’s safe to say bed racks are a worthy investment.
Increased Cargo Capacity
Fitting big and bulky cargo in your truck can be tricky, even with a spacious bed. This is where a bed rack comes in handy. Bed racks give you more space for carrying oversized cargo, such as kayaks and surfboards. This also helps clear space in your cabin for you and your passengers.
Versatility
Installing a bed rack is only the first step to upgrading your truck’s cargo space. With mounting brackets, adjustable crossbars, and other bed rack accessories, you can transform your truck according to your own needs. Whether you need to transport bikes, skis, or a rooftop tent, there’s a rack specially designed for that.
Improved Organization
Rather than letting your precious cargo shift around in your truck bed, why not secure it with a bed rack instead? A bed rack can keep your gear organized and protect it from damage. You won’t have to worry about any of it moving around as you drive. Plus, it’s so much easier to keep track of everything when they’re all properly organized.
Aesthetic Enhancement
Bed racks aren’t just functional. They can be pretty stylish too. By installing a bed rack on your truck, you can personalize your ride and make it uniquely yours.
Where to Get High-Quality Off-Road Truck Bed Racks
Now that you’re 100% sure about investing in a bed rack, the only thing left to figure out is where to shop.
Luckily, you don’t have to look too far. The JC Whitney Performance Parts + Accessories Hub is the new go-to for all off-roading needs, including your brand-new bed rack. Visit the JC Whitney Performance Hub now to find the premium brands you know and love, as well as discover some new favorites.
Planning on installing your new bed rack yourself? Get the job done right by investing in good tools. Shop at JC Whitney tools for high-quality socket sets and other specialty tools today.