6 Pro Tips to Help You Pick the Right Ladder Rack for Your Work Truck
We have extensively covered the need to install high-quality ladder racks on your work truck on our blog in the past. It is time to get down to business! Here is everything you need to know about buying the right ladder rack for your Work Truck. Every business is unique and it goes without saying that the kind of customization or up-fitting you will require on your work van will also differ from case to case.
If you are overwhelmed by the plethora of options that are available in the market, we are here to make your ladder rack selection process a tad easier. Let us look at some tips that will come in handy and dispel any confusion about which ladder rack you should choose.
Understand the Different Types of Truck Ladder Racks
Drop-down racks, base racks, side-access rotation racks, lock-down racks, and aluminum cargo carriers are among the most popular types of ladder racks and they help you gain an understanding of how to transport a ladder with the right type that fits your needs. You can discover high-quality ladder racks for vans online at American Van.
Here is a look at the bestselling types of ladder racks for vans and trucks:
1. Utility Racks
A good-old utility rack is a versatile option that allows you the flexibility to stow and transport a wide variety of cargo and equipment. The good thing is that the rack is compact and fits most standard high-roof vans (full-size ones) like the Ford Sprinter, Nissan NV Cargo, Nissan NV200, Transit Connect, etc. The only downside to a utility rack is that it could be a little difficult to access.
2. Lock-Down Ladder Racks
The lock-down ladder rack fits perfectly on GM, Ford, Transit Connect, Nissan NV200, RAM CV, and other full-size vans. Like utility racks, they are easy to use and quite adaptable for a range of items. However, they may not be able to accommodate too many things and can also be hard to access.
3. Drop-Down Ladder Racks
These happen to be our favorite, and for good reason. The easy-to-use handle of a drop-down ladder rack makes it simple for your ladder to pivot to the side of your vehicle. Safe, reliable, and efficient, the drop-down ladder rack also fits most full-size vans and pick-up trucks. The only thing that might make you think twice about this type of ladder rack is its price. They can be costlier than the options mentioned above.
Pro Tips to Choose the Right Ladder Rack for Your Needs
1. Understand your requirement
What is good for someone else might not be the right accessory for you. Make sure you understand your unique business and transportation needs before you choose a specific rack. Start by considering the average and the maximum number of ladders you will need to carry. Also, consider the size of your ladders. If you intend to accommodate other heavy equipment on the rack, ensure that the rack system you choose provides sufficient space for them to fit properly. While gauging your needs, it is important to look at what you need at the moment and also keep an eye on the future. You might feel like your requirements are limited right now, but what about when your business expands?
2. Consider your work truck type
Given the massive number of models in the market like chevy express silverdo 1500, 2500, 3000, or any other vehicle, most equipment manufacturers have started offering vehicle accessories and up-fitting options that are designed for specific work vans and trucks. Whether you have a Sprinter or a Transit, a Dodge van, or one from the Nissan NV Series, it is important to check whether the ladder rack system you choose is compatible with your work truck.
3. Look at the safety features
While shopping around for ladder rack systems, considering the safety features is essential. After all, one of the key reasons why you need a ladder rack is because you want to keep your ladders, driver, vehicle, and other people safe. Modern-day ladder rack designs are enhanced with a variety of safety and security features – compare them and check which one suits your needs the best. Any ladder rack that you buy should have passed the necessary safety tests. An easy-to-use system that has high-quality fasteners or clasps is a must.
4. Material of construction
Heat, wind, moisture, water, and snow can have a detrimental impact on certain materials. Before you put down your money, make sure that the material used for constructing your ladder rack is extremely robust and resistant to harsh weather. You will find that most manufacturers offer aluminum ladder racks today because aluminum is not only corrosion-resistant, it is immensely durable, and light in weight as well. You might also come across steel options, but steel ladder racks are generally heavier than their aluminum counterparts.
5. Compare models and designs
While it is possible that you may fall in love with the first ladder rack you see, we recommend comparing different models and designs before you zero in on your choice. The market is replete with dynamic and good-looking ladder rack systems. Every product will have its own set of pros and cons – ensure that you understand them before buying one.
6. Talk to an expert
The variety of styles, features, and construction material might make it hard for you to select the right ladder rack for your work truck. It is best to consult an expert in the industry and understand which ladder rack system is ideal for you. You can go to a truck accessory manufacturer, a retailer, or simply speak to one of our qualified experts at American Van!
Choosing a ladder rack for your work in the van should not be difficult. That is why we, at American Van, have curated the best range of ladder racks from different manufacturers. Here is a list of the popular ones:
1. Aluminum and Steel Base Racks
3. Side Access Rotation Ladder Racks
4. Rotation/Lock-Down COMBO Racks
5. Ladder Racks for Pickup Trucks
Do not forget to look for the warranty, cost, weight, and ergonomics while making a buying decision. The best truck ladder rack systems are those that are simple to load, extremely safe, and of course, good-looking!