When it comes to kitting out your van for work or adventure, choosing the right van racking for your vehicle can make all the difference. Whether you’re a tradesperson needing organised cargo storage or an outdoor enthusiast, who wants efficient spaces to stow away your gear, the right van racking system will transform your vehicle’s functionality.  

But, before you rush into buying van racking, it’s important to remember that not all van racking ideas are created equal. So, in the spirit of the epic 1960s spaghetti Western film, let’s explore The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of van racking systems!

The Good

Effective van racking ideas focus on maximising space, organisation and accessibility, and safety (so your tools, parts or gear remain safely stowed away whilst in transit). Van Guard’s ULTIRack+ provides robust and customisable storage options. The modular racking system allows you to tailor the setup to your specific needs. Whether you need shelves for tools, compartments for outdoor gear, or hooks for equipment, our ULTIRack+ van racking offers flexibility and scalability, so you can turn your van racking ideas into a reality.

Durability should be at the top of your van racking ideas list. The best van racking systems will withstand the demands of daily use and be a long-lasting investment. The ULTIRack+ is made from a sleek aluminium alloy design with made to measure foot packs, multi-use side channels, a full width rear roller, and a game-changing cross bar system.

Good van racking systems should be easy to install and adjust. All our products come with comprehensive guides and all necessary hardware, making setup straightforward (even for those with limited DIY experience).

The Bad (what to avoid)

On paper, your van racking ideas may enhance your vehicle’s functionality, but beware of your designs falling short of the practical storage you need. It can be tempting to include too many ideas into your storage plan, but this will overcomplicate the layout and inadvertently make tools, parts, or materials less accessible.

Another van racking pitfall to avoid is ignoring weight distribution. It’s important to consider the weight of the tools, parts, materials, or outdoor gear that you need to stow away and design your van racking system effectively and safely, so it doesn’t impact on your van’s handling and fuel efficiency. As a rule of thumb, heavier items should be stored lower down and evenly distributed.

In the excitement of kitting out your van with new storage, it can be easy to forget about the safety and security of your van racking system. It’s critical to invest in properly secure van storage solutions to avoid items shifting during transit or worse, coming loose and posing a safety risk.

The Ugly

The ugly truth is that inferior van racking systems can break under load, causing damage to both your belongings and the van, so invest wisely and opt for a reputable, high quality van racking system that’s adaptable enough to meet your needs and see your van racking ideas become a reality. Take the time to list your requirements and choose a robust van racking system that aligns with your lifestyle and work demands.

Unsecured van racking can become a major hazard in the event of sudden stops or accidents. Our teams have spent decades researching, designing, and manufacturing products for vans, so we know how important it is to secure everything for transit. 

By focusing on quality, thoughtful design, and security, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your van storage solution meets your needs. We offer a range of top-tier products that embody the good aspects of van racking, while helping you steer clear of the bad and the ugly!