Everything You Need to Know About Cargo Van Roof Racks

May 15, 2023

If you need to free up some extra space in your van, then a cargo rack could be the perfect upfit. Cargo racks aren’t only a great solution for maximizing your van’s storage potential, they’re also handy when it comes to transporting bulky equipment or materials that are too long to fit in your interior storage space. An added bonus? They add value to your vehicle when it’s time to resell.

How to Choose the Right Cargo Rack for Your Van

Best Vans for Cargo Racks

Who Uses Cargo Racks?

How to Choose the Right Cargo Rack for Your Van

Van cargo racks come in many different shapes and sizes, so which one is the best choice? That depends on your unique situation. Factors such as what kind of items you transport, the amount of driving you do, and security concerns are all important to consider. To help you narrow down your choices, these are some of the most common cargo rack styles:

Cargo Bars

Available in two- or three-bar options, this style of cargo rack locks into place, providing essential stability during transport.

Roof Decks

This type of rack could be a good choice if you spend a lot of time on the road — its aerodynamic design helps maximize your van’s fuel efficiency. Some other pluses include protection for your vehicle’s roof and ample access points for securing hooks.

Conduit Carrier

If you want to store longer materials (like piping or lumber) in an enclosed space but don’t have the room in your van’s cargo area, this rack style is a great solution. It offers enclosed storage and protection from theft and the elements.

Ladder Rack

While these racks are designed specifically for ladder transport, some models can accommodate other types of equipment as well, making them a versatile storage option for your van.

Best Vans for Cargo Racks

Some makes and models that are ideal for a cargo rack upfit are:

Who Uses Cargo Racks?

The industries that commonly use cargo racks include:

The Merchants Commercial Upfitting Process

We can connect you to commercial vehicle upfitting services at any time following your purchase from Merchants.

First, we’ll spec the best aftermarket equipment for your needs. Then we’ll choose the most qualified upfit vendors for the job and act as a single point of contact between you, your drivers, the OEM, and vendors.

Choose from one of our standard or customized upfit packages, and we’ll make all the necessary calls. If you aren’t sure exactly what you’re looking for, or if you have questions about certain upfits, our dedicated team can help steer you in the right direction.

Your Connection to Upfitting Services

Whether you’re looking to add simple touches or completely renovate your van or truck’s interior, we’ll ensure any type of upfitting is done efficiently and that your vehicles are exactly to your specifications.