Sometimes, the tools in your toolset are too large to store inside your work van. Even if you have an extended work van, it can often be challenging to fit everything, especially the tools you need for heavy-duty jobs.
But how do you prepare to transport your ladders and lengthy construction elements to the worksite without making multiple trips? A ladder rack system for your cargo van is often the best solution for contractors who are always on the go.
More Than Just Support: How Ladder Racks Lift You Up
Having the tools you need when needed is essential to getting the job done right. When working on large or multiple jobs, vans quickly become cluttered with tools, supplies, and materials.
Cumbersome items like ladders can occupy valuable internal space, leading to lots of “empty” or “lost” space within your vehicle. Sometimes, they can be too large for the vehicle’s cargo area. Maximizing space inside and outside the vehicle is essential for easy access — and limits the time you play construction material Tetris when setting up and breaking down for the day.
Additionally, ladder racks protect your tools on and off the worksite. When ladders get shoved inside a vehicle, they might not be as secure as in a ladder rack, increasing the risk of shifting or movement on the road. If your ladders move and hit other tools, it can put your ladder and entire toolkit at risk of damage, potentially causing a preventable accident.
The Different Types of Adrian Steel Van Ladder Racks
ProLift Drop-Down Ladder Racks
For those worried about lifting ladders and the risk of shoulder and back injuries, Adrian Steel’s ProLift ladder racks are an optimal choice. As our safest, most ergonomic ladder rack, ProLift racks use unique, patent-pending systems to raise and lower ladders up to 50% easier than comparable drop-down ladder racks.
Designed for convenience, the ProLift series allows you to store extension ladders up to 30 feet long on high-roof work vans in just five easy steps.
HD Utility Roof Racks
Your ladder rack might become more than just a ladder rack, carrying cargo such as conduit, lumber, and other supplies. This easily installable ladder rack fits on the largest variety of vehicles while offering a sleek, minimalistic design and premium weatherstrip.
Grip-Lock Roof Rack Systems
The days of wrestling with bungee cords are over with Grip-Lock racks. Instead of relying on elastic cabling as tie-downs to secure your ladders to the ladder rack and crossbars, Adrian Steel’s Grip-Lock system is a one-handed operation that securely grips ladders and locks them into place, limiting slide and stress on the ladder rack itself. Grip-Lock van roof racks are optimized for low-roof and compact vans and can secure a variety of sizes, from 7-foot step ladders to 34-foot extension ladders.
Interior Ladder Storage
Interior Ladder Storage provides secure in-van storage for your ladders and equipment, shielding them from harsh environments. Keeping your ladders inside the vehicle protects them from the elements, which reduces wear and tear caused by exposure during travel. Plus, interior storage helps prevent theft, ensuring your equipment stays safe and ready for the next job.
Conduit Carriers
Keep your conduit protected from the elements and secure from theft with our diamond tread aluminum conduit carriers. These carriers are durable and look professional. They feature a lift-up door with a swivel lock for easy, one-handed access. Compatible with our ProLift, Grip-Lock, and HD Utility racks, these ladder rack accessories support the protection of your precious cargo.
Four Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Ladder Rack
1. Material and Durability
Choosing the cheap option isn’t always the right option. When investing in a ladder rack for your work vehicle, you want something that can withstand time. The materials used in your ladder rack and rack accessories can highly impact the performance of your setup. Aluminum racks are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them ideal for contractors working in wet or coastal areas. They’re also easier on your vehicle due to their lower weight. On the other hand, stainless steel racks are heavier but offer superior strength and durability, which is necessary for hauling heavier ladders or materials. Consider your work environment and the loads you’ll carry when choosing a suitable material.
2. Weight Capacity
Not all ladder racks are created equal, especially regarding how much they can hold. The ladder rack you choose for your work vehicle needs to be rated for the weight of your ladders, scaffolding, or materials you will carry to protect your vehicle. Most ladder racks specify a maximum load limit, so check the limit to ensure it aligns with your needs before purchasing. Additionally, make sure to consider the gross vehicle weight (GVW) to ensure that you are not overloading your van with your ladder rack and stowed ladders.
3. Compatibility with Your Vehicle
The perfect ladder rack won’t do you much good if it doesn’t fit your vehicle correctly. Adrian Steel ladder racks leverage OEM mounting points, taking the compatibility question out of the picture. However, we recommend specific racks for different vehicle types, like compact, low-roof, full-size vans, or high-roof vehicles across various Ford, Chevrolet, Ram, Nissan, and Mercedes Sprinter van models.
4. Ease of Use
Your ladder rack should make your daily tasks easier, not more complicated. To protect your team’s safety and physical health, look for features that simplify access to your ladders, such as drop-down ladders or those with side mechanisms to support ladder retrieval without climbing onto the vehicle. Additionally, quick-release systems and adjustable mounts can assist with securing ladders and equipment. When selecting your ladder rack, consider how it would integrate into your team and their current needs.
Maximize Your Work Vehicle’s Potential
Selecting the right ladder rack for your work vehicle isn’t just about transporting ladders — it’s about optimizing your workday, protecting your equipment, ensuring safety, and making your job easier. A well-designed ladder rack maximizes your vehicle’s storage capacity, ensuring you’re not wasting valuable space by cramming oversized equipment into your truck bed or cargo area.
Maximize your work vehicle’s potential with Adrian Steel’s ladder rack configurations. With systems designed explicitly for every work vehicle, you can get paired with a ladder rack system that enhances your workday and keeps your essential equipment safe and secure.
Do you want to reorganize your tool set? Discover your perfect ladder rack by contacting your local Adrian Steel distributor.