Do you love your truck but hate when your gear gets rained on or stolen? Maybe you’ve tried to haul lumber or sporting equipment, only to realize your truck bed isn’t quite big enough or secure enough. Finding the perfect truck rack and tonneau cover combo can feel like a puzzle. You want something that looks good, works well, and protects your stuff, but there are so many choices out there!
Choosing the right truck rack and tonneau cover can be tricky. You might worry about them not fitting together, or if they’ll actually hold what you need. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the different styles and features. But what if there was a way to make this decision easier and get the best of both worlds: secure storage and versatile hauling?
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great truck rack and tonneau cover pairing. You’ll learn how to pick the perfect setup for your truck so you can haul your gear with confidence and keep everything safe and dry. Get ready to discover the solutions that will make your truck even more useful and stylish.
Our Top 5 Truck Rack With Tonneau Cover Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
TruXedo Elevate Rack System | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
Yakima Truck Bed Mount Tower Compatible w/Retrax XR Series | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 |
Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Cross Bars | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
 |
VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack – 800 lbs Capacity | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
 |
IIIREENO Upgraded Version Overland Bed Rack | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Truck Rack With Tonneau Cover Detailed Reviews
1. TruXedo Elevate Rack System
Rating: 8.5/10
The TruXedo Elevate Rack System | 1118513 | Elevate CS Rack is a game-changer for truck owners who need more cargo space and organization. This system lets you carry all your gear, from bikes to kayaks, making it perfect for both work and adventure.
What We Like:
- It offers lots of storage options and more cargo space for your truck.
- The uprights can be adjusted to 18 or 28 inches tall, and the crossbars move to fit your needs.
- It works with most inside-mount truck bed covers, so you can still protect your cargo.
- The rack is built tough with strong, textured aluminum that’s powder-coated.
- It can hold a lot of weight: 500 lbs. on the road and 250 lbs. off-road.
- TruXedo backs it with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, and it’s made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to buy TruXedo TS Rails separately to complete the system.
- You must carefully follow the steps in the images to make sure you get the right rack for your truck.
This rack system is a fantastic investment for anyone who needs to haul more. You can customize it to fit your gear and your truck, ensuring you’re ready for any task or trip.
2. Yakima Truck Bed Mount Tower Compatible w/Retrax XR Series
Rating: 9.5/10
The Yakima OverHaul HD Tonneau Set is a fantastic way to add serious cargo-carrying capability to your truck, especially if you have a compatible tonneau cover. It turns your truck bed into a powerful hauling machine, letting you bring all your gear along for the adventure.
What We Like:
- Seamless Integration: It fits perfectly with Retrax XR series, Pace-Edwards (except certain Ford F-150s), and Ford Embark LS tonneau covers. Your rack system will look and work like it was made for your truck.
- Heavy Duty Hauling: This tower bar set is super strong. It can carry up to 300 pounds on the road and 180 pounds off-road. You can trust it to hold your gear securely. (Remember, you’ll need to buy the Yakima HD Bar crossbar separately.)
- Total Equipment Security: Your gear stays safe and sound. The SKS locks keep everything connected tightly to your tonneau cover. You can travel with peace of mind.
- Swift and Effortless Setup: Getting this rack system on your truck is easy. The package includes 4 OverHaul HD Towers and all the hardware you need. Installation is straightforward.
- Yakima’s Experience: Yakima has been helping people travel and carry sports gear since 1979. They design products that are safe, smart, and built for real life.
What Could Be Improved:
- Compatibility Note: It’s important to double-check compatibility, especially for the Pace-Edwards tonneau covers on 2004 and newer Ford F-150 trucks.
- Crossbar Purchase: You must buy the Yakima HD Bar crossbar separately. This is an extra cost to consider.
This Yakima OverHaul HD Tonneau Set is a robust and smart solution for expanding your truck’s hauling capacity. It offers a secure and integrated way to transport your gear, making it a valuable addition for any truck owner.
3. Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Cross Bars
Rating: 9.2/10
This Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Cross Bars is a game-changer for any full-size truck owner. It adds serious utility to your truck bed, letting you haul more and do more with your vehicle.
What We Like:
- Versatile Hauling: You can carry all sorts of gear like tents, bikes, kayaks, or ladders. It lets you carry items that normally wouldn’t fit in your truck bed.
- Tonneau Cover Friendly: It works great with many types of tonneau covers, including roll-up and tri-fold ones. Your tonneau cover can still open and close, though folding covers won’t fold back fully.
- Strong and Light: Made from tough aluminum alloy, these bars are built to last and won’t rust or fade. The steel brackets add strength without much weight. They can hold up to 600 lbs when parked and 300 lbs when moving.
- Easy Setup: You don’t need to drill any holes to install them. They fit trucks with or without bed rails.
- Wide Compatibility: These bars fit most full-size trucks from major brands like Ram, Ford, Chevy, GMC, Nissan, and Toyota.
- Solid Warranty: It comes with a 2-year warranty against any manufacturing problems.
What Could Be Improved:
- Folding Cover Limitation: If you have a folding tonneau cover, it won’t be able to fold back completely once the cross bars are installed.
This cross bar system is a fantastic upgrade for anyone needing extra cargo space and versatility. It’s a durable and practical solution for hauling your gear.
4. VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack – 800 lbs Capacity
Rating: 9.1/10
Hauling gear just got way easier with the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack. This rack is built tough to handle your biggest loads, from kayaks and surfboards to lumber and ladders. It’s designed for convenience, offering a no-drill installation so you can get back on the road faster.
What We Like:
- It fits lots of different pickup trucks because its width can be adjusted from 46 to 71 inches.
- The rack is made of strong alloy steel and has a special triangle shape for extra stability, holding up to 800 pounds.
- Installation is a breeze with the J-bolt system that doesn’t require drilling into your truck.
- It has a black powder coating that looks good and protects against rust and corrosion, so it will last for years.
- It gives you much more space in your truck bed for all your important items.
What Could Be Improved:
- This rack won’t work if your truck already has a toolbox, utility track, or tonneau cover installed.
This VEVOR truck ladder rack is a solid choice for anyone needing extra hauling capacity and a secure way to transport their gear. It offers a great balance of strength, ease of use, and durability for your truck.
5. IIIREENO Upgraded Version Overland Bed Rack
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to take your truck to the next level? The IIIREENO Upgraded Version Overland Bed Rack is here to help! This cargo carrier is designed for both full-size and mid-size pickup trucks. It’s built tough and works with most tri-fold bed tonneau covers, and the best part? No drilling is required for installation. Plus, you can adjust its width to fit your truck perfectly.
What We Like:
- It fits a huge variety of popular full-size and mid-size pickup trucks, from Chevy and Ford to Ram and Toyota.
- The rack can hold up to 400 lbs when you’re driving and 700 lbs when parked, so it can carry a lot of gear.
- It’s designed to work with most tri-fold tonneau covers that mount on top of the bed rails.
- The width is adjustable, fitting truck beds from 54.7 inches to 65.7 inches wide.
- The H-type center arm makes it easy to load and unload heavy items.
- Its porous design lets you attach all sorts of tools and accessories, giving you even more storage options.
- Installation is straightforward and doesn’t require any drilling.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it works with most tri-fold covers, it won’t work with covers mounted inside the bed rails.
- The installation process will change how your tonneau cover folds.
- The length of the rack is not adjustable and is fixed at 57.7 inches.
This bed rack is a fantastic upgrade for anyone who loves overlanding or needs extra cargo space. It offers great versatility and a sturdy build to carry all your adventure essentials.
The Ultimate Guide to Truck Racks with Tonneau Covers
Are you looking to upgrade your truck bed? A truck rack combined with a tonneau cover offers a fantastic solution for hauling gear and keeping your cargo safe and dry. This guide will help you choose the best setup for your needs.
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Rack Type and Strength
- Over-the-tonneau racks: These sit above your tonneau cover, allowing you to still use both. They are great for carrying bikes, kayaks, or lumber.
- Integrated racks: Some racks are built directly into the tonneau cover system. These offer a sleek look and strong support.
- Weight capacity: Always check how much weight the rack can safely hold. This is crucial for preventing damage to your truck and your gear.
2. Tonneau Cover Style
- Roll-up covers: These are easy to use and roll up out of the way. Many rack systems can attach to them.
- Hard folding covers: These offer excellent security and can support moderate weight. Some racks are designed to work with them.
- Retractable covers: These roll into a canister at the front of the bed. They are convenient but might limit rack options.
3. Rack Adjustability and Compatibility
- Can the rack be adjusted in width or height? This is helpful if you carry different types of items.
- Does the rack fit your specific truck make and model? A perfect fit ensures stability and ease of installation.
Important Materials
The materials used in your truck rack and tonneau cover greatly affect their durability and performance.
1. Rack Materials
- Aluminum: This is a popular choice because it’s strong, lightweight, and resistant to rust.
- Steel: Steel racks are very strong and can handle heavy loads. However, they can be heavier and may rust if not properly coated.
2. Tonneau Cover Materials
- Vinyl: This is common for soft roll-up covers. It’s flexible and water-resistant.
- Aluminum or Fiberglass: These are used for hard covers. They offer superior security and durability.
- ABS Plastic: This is another option for hard covers, offering a good balance of strength and weight.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Good Setup?
Several factors determine the quality and lifespan of your truck rack and tonneau cover combination.
1. Build Quality and Finish
- Look for smooth welds and sturdy construction on the rack.
- The tonneau cover should have tight seams and a durable finish that resists UV rays and weather.
2. Ease of Installation and Use
- A good system is easy to install without special tools.
- The tonneau cover should operate smoothly, and the rack should be simple to adjust or remove if needed.
3. Weather Resistance
- Both the rack and cover should protect your gear from rain, sun, and dust.
- Check for good seals on the tonneau cover to prevent leaks.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your truck rack and tonneau cover. This will help you pick the right features.
1. For the Weekend Warrior
- If you love camping, biking, or kayaking, an over-the-tonneau rack is perfect. It lets you carry your gear while keeping your truck bed protected.
- A roll-up or folding cover works well to keep your camping supplies dry.
2. For the Contractor or DIYer
- Hauling lumber, tools, or ladders? A strong, integrated rack system with a durable hard tonneau cover offers security and can support heavy materials.
- You can still use the bed for smaller items that need to stay dry and locked up.
3. For Everyday Commuting
- If you just want to keep your groceries or work bags out of the elements and secure, a simple roll-up or folding cover with a low-profile rack might be all you need.
- This setup improves your truck’s look and adds a layer of protection.
Choosing the right truck rack and tonneau cover combination enhances your truck’s utility and protects your investments. Consider these features and materials to make a smart purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a truck rack with any tonneau cover?
A: Not always. Some rack systems are designed to work with specific tonneau cover types. It’s important to check for compatibility before buying.
Q: Will a tonneau cover affect how much weight my truck rack can hold?
A: Yes, some tonneau covers might not be strong enough to support the weight of a rack and its load. Over-the-tonneau racks are designed to bypass this issue.
Q: How do I know if a rack will fit my truck?
A: Most manufacturers list compatible truck makes, models, and bed lengths. Always verify this information.
Q: Are aluminum racks better than steel racks?
A: Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant, making it easier to handle and maintain. Steel is stronger but heavier and can rust if not protected.
Q: How much do truck racks with tonneau covers usually cost?
A: Prices vary widely depending on the type, material, and brand. Simple setups can start around a few hundred dollars, while heavy-duty systems can cost over a thousand.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my tonneau cover and rack?
A: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, mild soap and water work well. For vinyl covers, use a vinyl protectant. For metal racks, check for rust and apply protective coatings if needed.
Q: Can I remove the truck rack easily?
A: Many racks are designed for easy removal, especially those that clamp onto the bed rails. Some integrated systems might be more permanent.
Q: Will a tonneau cover keep my cargo completely dry?
A: Most good quality tonneau covers are highly water-resistant, but some minor leakage can occur in heavy rain or through the tailgate seal. Proper installation is key.
Q: What is the main benefit of having both a rack and a tonneau cover?
A: You get the best of both worlds: secure, dry storage under the cover and the ability to haul tall or bulky items on top of the rack.
Q: Where can I buy truck racks with tonneau covers?
A: You can find them at automotive parts stores, truck accessory shops, and online retailers like Amazon or specialized truck accessory websites.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.