What Are Truck Bed Rails Used For?

Truck bed rails are a crucial component of any pickup truck. They provide a layer of protection for the bed and its cargo, as well as extra storage space for items like tie-downs or toolboxes.

Truck bed rails can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, and metal. Each material comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider which type best fits your needs.

Aluminum bed rails are the most common type used on pickup trucks today. They are light yet strong enough to withstand impacts and the elements.

Aluminum is also resistant to corrosion — an important factor when considering the potential for water damage in a pickup truck bed. However, aluminum is not as strong as steel or other metals, so if you plan on carrying heavy items in your truck bed, you may want to consider another material.

Plastic truck bed rails are also popular because they are lightweight and inexpensive compared to metal rails. Plastic is also easy to install and can be quickly replaced if damaged. The downside is that plastic is not as durable or corrosion-resistant as metal rails, so they may need replacing more often.

Metal truck bed rails are the most durable option available, but they are also the most expensive and require more installation effort than plastic or aluminum rails. Steel is the most common type of metal used for truck beds; it is strong enough to withstand impacts and weather conditions without corroding over time. However, steel can rust if exposed to moisture for long periods of time.

Conclusion:

Truck bed rails serve an important purpose in protecting a pickup truck’s cargo from damage while adding extra storage space for tie-downs or toolboxes. Aluminum is the most commonly used material due to its lightweight yet strong construction, but plastic and metal options are also available depending on your needs.

Photo of author

James Gardner