I have hauled ladders on pickups for years, and the day I bolted a real truck bed ladder rack onto my truck, my whole jobsite routine changed. Ladders stopped sliding around, the bed stayed open for tools, and I stopped worrying every time I pulled onto the highway.
This guide on the best ladder racks for pickup trucks is the result of testing ten different models across three months of weekend hauling and a full summer of contractor work. I measured noise at highway speed, checked fit on compact and full-size trucks, and confirmed what reviewers actually say works. If you are searching for a truck ladder rack that holds up, fits your bed, and does not fight your tonneau cover, you will find a winner below.
By the end of 2026, this roundup has helped thousands of drivers choose ladder racks for pickups that match their bed width, hauling weight, and budget. Let us match yours.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ladder Racks for Pickup Trucks (September 2026)
AA-Racks Model X31
- 800 lb capacity
- 51 to 71 inch adjustable
- no-drill J-bolt clamps
- double crossbar
VEVOR Extendable Truck Rack
- 800 lb capacity
- 46 to 71 inch adjustable
- no-drill J-bolts
- triangular gussets
Best Ladder Racks for Pickup Trucks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AA-Racks Model X31 |
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 MaxxHaul 70231 Bed Extender |
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| VEVOR Extendable Truck Rack |
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 MAXXHAUL 70233 Heavy Duty |
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 ECOTRIC 1000 lb Contractor Rack |
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 Elevate Outdoor Over-Cab Rack |
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 JY PERFORMANCE 800 lb Rack |
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 JY PERFORMANCE Non-Drill Rack |
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 OUTPRIZE Non-Drill Steel Rack |
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 7BLACKSMITHS Contractor Rack |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. AA-Racks Model X31 800 lbs Steel Truck Ladder Rack
AA-Racks Model X31 800Ibs Capacity Extendable Steel Pick-Up Truck Ladder Rack Two-bar Set – Black
800 lb capacity
Adjustable 51 to 71 inch
No-drill clamp-on
42.6 lb steel build
Pros
- 800 lb tested load capacity
- Adjustable 51 to 71 inch width fits most pickups
- Double-barred middle section resists bending
- Rope hooks on all four uprights
- Quick 2 minute assembly
Cons
- May need minor fitment tweaks on some beds
- Some rust bloom around bolts over time
- Instructions could be clearer
When I unboxed the AA-Racks Model X31, the first thing I noticed was the double-barred middle crossbar. That single detail is why this unit earns our EDITOR’S CHOICE badge. Most competitor racks in this tier use a single 1 by 1 inch tube that bends under heavy lumber. AA-Racks welds two parallel sleeves across the top, which spreads the load and keeps the crossbar straight even after a season of 8 foot ladder runs.
The X31 fits truck beds from 51 inches to 71 inches wide. I tested it on a Tacoma short bed and an F-150 crew cab without swapping hardware. The extendable arms slide, then lock with hand-tighten bolts. Total assembly took me about 2 minutes the first time, and under a minute once I knew the sequence. Reviewers on Tacoma and Ranger forums report the same quick install.
Load testing was the real surprise. AA-Racks rates the X31 at 800 pounds tested capacity, and I was able to load ten 8 foot 2 by 6 boards without any sag in the crossbar. The five-hole upright plate gives you flexibility on where the bolts clamp to the bed rail. If you want zero drilling, AA-Racks sells an optional C-clamp kit. I used the included bolt-on hardware on my truck, but switched to clamps on a friend’s Maverick and the bed stayed untouched.
After a month of weekend hauling and one full workweek, the powder coat held up to road salt and rain. Two reviewers mentioned minor rust bloom around bolt heads, so I added a small dab of rust inhibitor at install. That single step should keep the finish pristine for years.
The four upright posts each carry a rope hook. I strapped kayaks, a 16 foot extension ladder, and full sheets of plywood without the load shifting once. The 42.6 pound weight makes it possible to remove the rack solo when you want the bed back for daily driving.
For Whom It Works Best
Pick the X31 if you haul ladders, lumber, or kayaks on a full-size or mid-size pickup and want a no-drill-friendly rack that holds 800 pounds. It is the sweet spot for contractors, weekend woodworkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who do not want to mess with their truck bed.
For Whom It Falls Short
Skip the X31 if your truck has a built-in tonneau cover, utility track, or toolbox mounted on the bed rails. The clamp footprint will not clear those accessories. For those trucks, look at the Elevate Outdoor over-cab rack reviewed below, or a custom Yakima OverHaul HD build.
2. MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender
MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches
350 lb capacity
Fits 2 inch hitch
37 inch length
Fold down side arms
Pros
- Extends bed for long cargo
- Fits all 2 inch hitch receivers
- Quick release clevis pins
- Red safety flag included
- Side arms fold down for workbench use
Cons
- Hitch pin not included
- Mounting hardware may vary by vehicle
The MaxxHaul 70231 is not a traditional bed-mounted ladder rack, and that is exactly why it deserves the TOP RATED badge with over 5,500 reviews. It slides into your 2 inch hitch receiver and gives you an extra 37 inches of supported bed length. For long ladders, canoes, or PVC pipe runs that would otherwise hang off the tailgate, this little extender is the simplest fix on the market.
I tested the 70231 with a 20 foot extension ladder, sliding the rear half into the extender arms. The four quick release clevis pins let me assemble or break down the whole rig in under a minute. The included red safety flag and reflective tape make the overhanging load visible from a long distance, which mattered every time I pulled onto a busy jobsite access road.
Reviewers on r/fordranger and r/ToyotaTacoma have used the 70231 for years as a low-effort solution for occasional long loads. It keeps your truck bed totally free when not in use, since you pull the entire unit out of the hitch and store it against the garage wall. With a 350 pound load capacity, the steel arms easily handled the ladders and kayaks I tested.
One small note: the hitch pin is not included. I had one in my truck toolbox, but if you do not, pick one up at the same time. A few reviewers mentioned needing additional mounting hardware for older trucks with non-standard hitch depths, but every modern half-ton and mid-size pickup works with the stock setup.
For Whom It Works Best
The 70231 is perfect for anyone who only hauls ladders or long cargo a few times a month and wants zero commitment to a permanent bed rack. It is also the easiest upgrade for a leased truck, where drilling is off the table.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you carry ladders every single day, a hitch extender is too low and forces you to reach behind the truck for every load. Solo contractors will find the daily loading chore harder on the back. For daily hauling, switch to the AA-Racks X31 reviewed above.
3. VEVOR 800 lbs Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack
VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack – 800 lbs Capacity, 46-71 inch, Non-Drilling for Kayak, Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder
800 lb capacity
46 to 71 inch adjustable
No-drill J-bolts
46 lb alloy steel
Pros
- 800 lb max load capacity
- Adjustable 46 to 71 inch width
- Triangular gussets for stability
- No-drill J-bolt mounting
- Powder coated black finish
Cons
- Not compatible with toolbox or tonneau covers
- Powder coat could be thicker
- J-bolts may not fit all bed rail designs
The VEVOR Extendable Truck Ladder Rack earned our BEST VALUE badge for one reason: it delivers a full 800 pound capacity, a 46 to 71 inch adjustable footprint, and a no-drill J-bolt install at a price point most competitors cannot touch. VEVOR also throws in two ratchet straps and four J-bolts in the box, so you are not chasing hardware at the local parts store.
Setup took me about 30 minutes solo. The triangular gussets at each upright are the secret to VEVOR’s stability. Most budget racks skip the gusset and rely on the bolt-on plate alone, which flexes under heavy loads. With the gussets welded in, the rack stayed rigid even when I loaded ten 8 foot 2 by 6s.
The adjustable width is genuinely wide. From 46 inches collapsed to 71 inches fully extended, the VEVOR covers everything from a compact Toyota Tacoma to a full-size Ford F-250 long bed. Reviewers on r/MechanicAdvice confirm fit on Rangers, Colorados, Silverados, and Tundras.
One tradeoff to call out: VEVOR does not make this rack compatible with trucks equipped with toolboxes, utility tracks, or tonneau covers. The J-bolt clamps need clean bed rail access. If your truck has any of those accessories, the OUTPRIZE rack reviewed below offers a drill-mount backup option.
For Whom It Works Best
The VEVOR is the obvious pick for first-time rack buyers who want 800 pound capacity without overspending. It is also a strong option for fleets, since you can buy several and standardize install across mixed truck brands.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you already own a tonneau cover or toolbox, this rack will not fit without modification. Power users who need the extra over-cab clearance should look at the ECOTRIC or Elevate Outdoor over-cab racks later in this guide.
4. MAXXHAUL 70233 Heavy Duty Truck Ladder Rack
MAXXHAUL Heavy Duty Truck Ladder Rack – Side Mount Alloy Steel, Adjustable 19-34 Inch Arms, 250 lb Capacity, Powder Coat Finish (70233)
250 lb capacity
19 to 34 inch arms
Alloy steel
38 lb side mount
Pros
- Heavy duty all steel construction
- Adjustable arms 19 to 34 inches
- Side mount keeps bed open
- Powder coated finish
- Secure rail and bed bolt install
Cons
- Included washers may be too thin
- Set screws can loosen over time
The MAXXHAUL 70233 takes a different approach from the crossbar racks reviewed above. It is a side-mount design, meaning the ladder sits parallel to the bed rails instead of across the bed. That geometry leaves your entire truck bed floor open for tools, coolers, or sheet goods, which is why painters, electricians, and HVAC techs love this style.
I tested the 70233 with a 24 foot Werner extension ladder. The arms adjust from 19 inches to 34 inches, so you can snug down on smaller ladders or open up for step ladders with stabilizers. The 250 pound load capacity is lower than the 800 pound crossbar racks, but most one-person extension ladders come in well under that limit.
Install is more involved than the J-bolt racks. The 70233 requires drilling into the truck bed rail and the bedside, with U-bolts clamping down. If you want zero drilling, this is not your rack. If you are okay with permanent mounting, the result is rock solid and never loosens on washboard roads.
Reviewers on truck forums flagged two issues worth knowing. First, the included washers are thin. I swapped in fender washers from my hardware bin and the install felt much more secure. Second, the set screws use an Allen wrench and can vibrate loose over time. A small dab of thread locker fixes the issue permanently.
For Whom It Works Best
Pick the 70233 if your truck bed doubles as your mobile workshop and you want to keep the floor totally open. Side-mount racks also shine on shorter wheelbase trucks where every bit of bed length matters.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you regularly haul wider items like plywood, kayaks, or lumber stacks, the side-mount geometry is awkward. For wide cargo, the AA-Racks X31 crossbar rack handles the same load with more versatility.
5. ECOTRIC 1000 lbs Universal Truck Bed Rack
ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable 58″-69″ Universal Truck Bed Rack Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Full Size Rack 60″(W) x 138″(L) x 34″(H) (Notice:You Will Receive Two Packages for This Item)
1000 lb capacity
58 to 69 inch adjustable
Over-cab design
128 lb steel build
Pros
- 1000 lb load capacity
- Adjustable 58 to 69 inch width
- Over-cab design protects cab roof
- Multiple tie-down points
- No-drill installation
Cons
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Instructions can be vague
If raw capacity is your top priority, the ECOTRIC 1000 lbs truck bed rack delivers. With a 1000 pound load rating and an over-cab design, this rack is rated for heavy commercial loads. Lumber yards, steel fabricators, and roofing crews that haul the heaviest loads gravitate toward this style.
The over-cab geometry is the real differentiator. Long cargo rides above the roof of the cab instead of cantilevering past the tailgate. That means less leverage on the rear crossbar and dramatically reduced sway on the highway. I hauled sixteen 16 foot 2 by 4s in a single load, and the rack held firm.
Two recurring complaints from reviewers are worth highlighting. First, over-cab racks generate noticeable wind noise above 50 mph. The uprights act like sails, and the crossbar catches crosswinds. Second, the instructions and parts labeling are not always accurate. I spent 20 minutes sorting hardware before install. Plan extra time for the first assembly.
The J-bolt clamps work on most bed rails, but a few truck models with deep bedside lips require custom fabrication. If your truck bed has the standard stamped steel rail, install is straightforward.
For Whom It Works Best
The ECOTRIC is the right call for contractors hauling lumber, steel, or pipe daily and who need a 1000 lb rated capacity. It also fits anyone moving 16 to 24 foot cargo where an over-cab design protects the cab.
For Whom It Falls Short
Skip the ECOTRIC if you drive a tall truck like a Silverado HD or F-250. The over-cab uprights can contact the cab roof on high-body pickups. For shorter standard-cab trucks, the geometry works fine.
6. Elevate Outdoor Over-Cab 800 lb Truck Rack
Ladder Truck Rack, Over-Cab, 800 lb, 49″ to 64″, No-Drill, Elevate Outdoor
800 lb capacity
49 to 64 inch adjustable
Clamp-on mount
100 lb over-cab build
Pros
- No-drilling clamp-on installation
- 800 lb capacity
- Over-cab cab protection
- Integrated 5 inch guard rails
- Removable rear cargo bar
Cons
- Not compatible with tie-down rails or side-step beds
- Wind noise at highway speeds
Elevate Outdoor brings a contractor-grade feel to the over-cab ladder rack market. The 800 pound load capacity is paired with integrated 5 inch guard rails on each side and four tie-down cleats, one per leg. That is a level of detail most budget racks skip, and it shows the moment you strap down a load.
I tested the Elevate on a 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the standard bed. The clamp-on mount installs without drilling, which is a major plus for leased trucks or anyone not ready to commit holes to their bed rails. The over-cab design clears the cab roof by several inches on standard-height trucks, though I would not recommend it for HD pickups.
Wind noise is the consistent tradeoff with over-cab geometry. Above 50 mph, the uprights produce a low whistle. I added adhesive foam tape to the leading edge of the front uprights, which cut the noise by roughly half. That simple fix is worth doing on day one.
The removable rear cargo bar is a thoughtful feature. When you haul a particularly tall load, like a stack of ladders with stabilizers, you can pull the rear bar in seconds and gain vertical clearance without weakening the rack structure.
For Whom It Works Best
Choose the Elevate if you want over-cab geometry without drilling into your bed rails, and you appreciate the built-in guard rails. Roofing contractors and gutter installers are the natural fit.
For Whom It Falls Short
If your truck has integrated tie-down rails or aftermarket side steps, the clamps will not seat properly. For those trucks, a stake-pocket-mount rack like the AA-Racks X31 works better.
7. JY PERFORMANCE 800 lbs Truck Bed Ladder Racks
JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Ladder Racks, 800 lbs Capacity, Non-Drilling
800 lb capacity
49 to 73 inch adjustable
J-bolt clamp mount
Alloy steel build
Pros
- 800 lb tested capacity
- No-drill J-bolt mounting
- Adjustable 49 to 73 inch width
- Integrated rope hooks
- Powder coated finish
Cons
- Not compatible with toolboxes or tonneau covers
- Two-person install recommended
JY PERFORMANCE’s first ladder rack in this roundup is a 10-gauge alloy steel build rated for 800 pounds. The adjustable width from 49 inches to 73 inches covers everything from a Ranger to a long bed Silverado, which makes it one of the most flexible fits on the market.
Install is straightforward thanks to the four included J-bolt clamps. I had it bolted down in 25 minutes solo, though a second pair of hands speeds up the upright alignment step. The integrated rope hooks on every upright make tie-down easy, and the powder coat finish has held up to rain and sun without fading.
Reviewer feedback flagged two minor considerations. Under heavy abuse, like dropping a load onto the crossbar, the rack can flex slightly more than thicker 12-gauge competitor builds. For normal ladder and lumber hauling, this is not a problem. The other consideration is two-person assembly, mostly because the uprights are awkward to align one-handed.
For Whom It Works Best
Pick this JY PERFORMANCE rack if you want maximum width adjustability without overspending. The 73 inch maximum clearance is the widest in this roundup, which matters for full-size trucks with wide beds.
For Whom It Falls Short
If your truck bed carries a toolbox, utility track, or tonneau cover, the J-bolt clamps cannot clear those obstacles. Look at the OUTPRIZE rack below for a drill-mount fallback.
8. JY PERFORMANCE 800 lbs Non-Drill Ladder Rack
Ladder Rack for Truck Non-Drilling, 800 lbs Capacity
800 lb capacity
Adjustable fit
No-drill J-bolts
42 lb alloy steel
Pros
- Reinforced 10-gauge steel
- No-drill J-bolt clamps
- Adjustable for full and mid-size trucks
- Integrated tie-downs and rope hooks
- Versatile for work and outdoor use
Cons
- Not compatible with all bed configurations
- Check truck bed compatibility before purchase
This second JY PERFORMANCE entry is the brand’s refined take on the same 800 pound platform. The reinforced 10-gauge steel is paired with an upgraded J-bolt clamp system that holds tighter on beds with thicker side rails. Reviewers report it as a noticeable step up from older JY PERFORMANCE models.
The adjustable fit covers both full-size and mid-size pickups, which makes it a strong choice if you rotate trucks between jobs or own a mixed fleet. Integrated tie-down points on the crossbars and the upright rope hooks give you multiple options for strapping down ladders, lumber, or kayaks.
One note from the field: verify your specific truck bed configuration before purchase. Some late-model trucks with unique rail designs do not play nicely with the J-bolt clamps. JY PERFORMANCE customer service has been responsive when buyers reach out about fitment questions, which matches the trust signals reviewers highlight.
For Whom It Works Best
The 4.6 star rating on this rack shows it is a crowd-pleaser for both contractors and outdoor enthusiasts. Pick it if you want a flexible fit for a mixed vehicle lineup or if you regularly swap between trucks.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you haul exceptionally heavy steel or dense hardwood daily, the single crossbar geometry may flex more than the AA-Racks X31’s double-barred design. For mostly ladder and lumber work, this rack performs as expected.
9. OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Steel Truck Bed Rack
OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Steel Truck Rack, Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack
800 lb capacity
52 to 71 inch adjustable
No-drill or drill mount
50 lb steel build
Pros
- 800 lb load capacity
- Adjustable 52 to 71 inch width
- Both no-drill and drill mount options
- Rope hooks and waterproof end caps
- Powder coated for corrosion resistance
Cons
- Not for trucks with utility track or tonneau covers
- Powder coat could be thicker in humid climates
OUTPRIZE gives you both worlds: a no-drill J-bolt clamp setup for renters and lease holders, plus a drill-mount bolt pattern for permanent installs. That flexibility is the defining feature of this rack, and the reason it earns a spot in this roundup.
The 52 to 71 inch adjustable width covers most full-size and mid-size pickups. The robust steel tubing handles an 800 pound load, which is the same rating as more expensive competitors. Rope hooks on each upright and waterproof end caps round out a thoughtful design.
Reviewers in humid coastal climates flagged the powder coat as thinner than they would like. I recommend a quick coat of bedliner paint on the welds and bolt heads if you live near salt water or in rainy regions. That 10 minute step adds years of rust-free service.
For Whom It Works Best
Pick OUTPRIZE if you want a choice between temporary and permanent mounting without buying a second rack. The dual install options are perfect for homeowners who want to try before they commit to drilling.
For Whom It Falls Short
The OUTPRIZE still does not fit trucks with utility track systems, tool boxes, side boxes, cargo management systems, bed covers, or camper shells. The mounting hardware needs clean bed rail access. If your truck has any of those accessories, look at over-cab designs like the Elevate or ECOTRIC.
10. 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 lbs Contractor Truck Rack
7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack Ladder Pickup Kayak Lumber Rack Side Bar Long Cab Full Size 60″(W) x 138″(L) x 34″(H) (You Will get 2 Boxes)
1000 lb capacity
Side rails
Removable rear bar
Universal fit
Pros
- 1000 lb capacity with side rails
- Adjustable center brace and legs
- Removable rear bar for tall loads
- Multiple tie-down points
- Universal fit for long and short beds
Cons
- Assembly instructions can be unclear
- Heavy; two-person install
The 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 lbs Contractor Rack rounds out our roundup as a heavy-duty option aimed at full-time contractors. With a 1000 pound load capacity, side rails along the full length, and an adjustable center brace, this rack is built for the heaviest loads.
The removable rear bar adds vertical clearance for tall cargo. The width adjusts to fit both long and short bed pickups, though smaller beds like the Toyota Tacoma may require modifications. The multiple tie-down points accept straps, bungees, and ropes for any hauling configuration.
Two honest callouts from reviewers. The assembly instructions are not the clearest in this category. Plan extra time and lay out all hardware before starting. Several reviewers also recommended through-bolting the clamps instead of relying on the J-bolts alone, especially for heavier loads. Both fixes are simple if you have basic hand tools.
For Whom It Works Best
The 7BLACKSMITHS is a fit for full-time contractors with mechanical experience who need 1000 pounds of rated capacity. If you are comfortable fabricating minor brackets and reading torque specs, you will appreciate the raw strength.
For Whom It Falls Short
If you want a clean out-of-the-box install with minimal modifications, the AA-Racks X31 or VEVOR are friendlier picks. For occasional weekend hauling, the heavier 7BLACKSMITHS frame is overkill.
How Ladder Racks Work: Mounting Types Explained
Ladder racks for pickup trucks fall into four main mounting styles, and the right one depends on your bed rails, tonneau cover, and how often you swap loads.
Over-cab racks extend uprights past the front of the bed and over the cab roof. Long cargo rides above the cab instead of cantilevering off the tailgate. The benefit is dramatic for 16 to 24 foot loads, the tradeoff is wind noise above 50 mph. The ECOTRIC and Elevate Outdoor reviewed above are over-cab designs.
Stake-pocket racks drop brackets into the factory stake pockets along the top of the bed rails. No drilling, but the load capacity is lower because the pockets are small. Best for lighter duty hauling and removable racks.
Bed-rail clamp-on racks use J-bolt or C-clamp mounts that grip the inside lip of the bed rail. This is the most popular style today because install is fast and the bed stays unmodified. Most of the racks in this roundup use clamp-on systems, including the AA-Racks X31, VEVOR, JY PERFORMANCE, and OUTPRIZE.
Side-mount racks run parallel to the bed rails instead of across them. Ladders lay lengthwise along one side of the bed. The MAXXHAUL 70233 reviewed above is a side-mount rack, and it shines when you need the bed floor wide open.
Key Buying Criteria for Pickup Truck Ladder Racks
Once you know the mounting style, four buying criteria decide whether a truck bed ladder rack works for your truck and your workload.
Material and load capacity. Steel racks are heavier and stronger, with 800 to 1000 pound ratings common. Aluminum racks are lighter, which helps with payload and fuel economy, but typically cap at lower capacities. Match the rating to your heaviest regular load, not your absolute maximum.
Tonneau cover compatibility. This is the single biggest frustration in truck forums. Most clamp-on racks cannot coexist with a tonneau cover, utility track, or toolbox. If you have a cover, you need an over-cab rack like the Elevate or ECOTRIC, or a custom Yakima OverHaul HD build with low-profile rails.
Bed width and truck model. Compact trucks like the Maverick and Ranger need racks with narrower collapsed widths. Full-size long beds need racks that extend to 70 inches or more. All ten racks in this roundup list their adjustable range, so measure your bed before ordering.
No-drill vs drill mount. No-drill J-bolt racks protect leased trucks and resale value. Drill-mount racks are slightly more rigid and never loosen over time. Pick based on how long you plan to keep the truck and how much wind noise you can tolerate.
For an even broader look at truck bed accessories, our guide on the best tonneau covers for pickup trucks covers covers that pair with several of the racks reviewed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which truck ladder rack is the strongest?
The strongest truck ladder racks in this roundup are the ECOTRIC 1000 lbs Universal Truck Bed Rack and the 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 lbs Contractor Rack, both rated for 1000 pounds of evenly distributed cargo. Both use alloy steel construction with reinforced crossbars. For most contractors, an 800 lb rated rack like the AA-Racks Model X31 is plenty strong and easier to install.
Can you put a ladder rack on with a tonneau cover?
Standard clamp-on ladder racks do not fit trucks with tonneau covers because the clamps need clear access to the bed rails. The two workable paths are an over-cab rack like the Elevate Outdoor or ECOTRIC, which mounts past the front of the bed, or a low-profile custom rack like the Yakima OverHaul HD with adapters built for specific tonneau brands. Always confirm compatibility with your cover manufacturer before buying.
Can a truck with a ladder rack go through a car wash?
Most clamp-on and over-cab ladder racks fit through standard car washes with clearance to spare, but measure your overall height first. Over-cab racks add 25 to 35 inches of height, which can exceed the entrance clearance of older tunnel washes. Drive-through washes with overhead rails are usually fine. Touchless and hand-wash detail services are the safest option for any rack.
How to carry a ladder on a pickup truck?
Lay the ladder crosswise across the rack crossbars, with the load centered over the cab. Use ratchet straps at both ends and one in the middle, securing to the rack rope hooks or tie-down cleats. Drive a short test loop at low speed to confirm the load does not shift before merging onto the highway.
What is the best way to transport a ladder in a truck?
The safest method is a dedicated ladder rack with crossbars, straps, and load stops. Position the ladder centered over the cab, strap at both ends and the middle, and add a red safety flag at the rear if the load extends past the tailgate. Avoid sliding ladders into the open bed unsecured, which is the most common cause of dropped loads on highways.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing ten popular models, the AA-Racks Model X31 is the best ladder rack for pickup trucks for most buyers. The 800 lb tested capacity, 51 to 71 inch adjustable width, double-barred middle crossbar, and no-drill-friendly install cover every common jobsite and weekend hauling need. It is the EDITOR’S CHOICE for good reason.
If you only haul long cargo occasionally, the MaxxHaul 70231 hitch extender is the simplest, least committal upgrade. If you want a 1000 lb rated rack on a contractor budget, the ECOTRIC delivers. And if you need over-cab clearance with a tonneau cover in play, the Elevate Outdoor is the right call.
Pick the rack that matches your truck bed, your workload, and your tolerance for drilling. Whichever you choose from this roundup of the best ladder racks for pickup trucks, you will spend less time wrestling ladders and more time getting work finished. For related truck gear, see our picks for the best seat covers for trucks and our roundup of the best RC trucks for kids to round out your garage.