Having objects rattling around in your truck bed can make anyone feel uneasy.
If you’re looking to keep them secure, a cargo net is one of the best options available.
So, let’s take a look at the 4 best cargo nets for your truck:
1. 4'x6' Super Duty Bungee Cargo Net for Truck Bed
This bungee net by Grit Performance reaches the sweet spot in price and quality.
Each square is spaced 4×4 inches apart. This can also stretch all the way up to 8 x 12 feet. The 12 included carabiners are one less weak point in the system. Much of the competition just uses plastic hooks, which aren’t going to hold up as long.
They back this product with a lifetime guarantee, but you must register on their website first for it to apply. Practical applications of this include landscapers, frequent campers, or anyone who hauls small to large items!
It has a happy customer base and it’s value for the price you pay is hard to beat. This isn’t just a small net, it can stretch to cover your whole truck bed.
2. Zento Deals Black Mesh Three Pocket Trunk Cargo Organizer Storage Net
Speaking of small nets, if you want something unobtrusive to haul groceries or other loads in, then Zento’s organizer has you covered.
This will work in the trunk of a car as well. There are three divided pockets for whatever you may need. Did we mention it’s extremely affordable? Well, it is. Even if this thing doesn’t work out, your wallet will survive the storm.
One of the reasons it’s cheap is because it doesn’t come with anything to attach to your truck with! So you’ll need to purchase hooks or carabiners separately. Which aren’t too costly, but it did come as a shock to some who purchased the item. As long as you’re fine with that, it’s a nice pickup.
Something to note is that only the top four bands on this are elastic. If you are set on this option and want to purchase carabiners separately, you can find them here.
3. Cargo Net MICTUNING 5x7 Feet Heavy Duty Truck Bed Bungee Nets
Mictuning has a cargo net that stretches up to 10 x 14 feet. Which is the most we’ve covered in this guide.
In addition to that, they include 16 clips to make sure you’ve got everything covered and held down tight.
This is ideal for larger trucks.
They’re also in that sweet spot of price range/value for this category. Their bungee core material is rubber and 6mm thick. Which is the reason it stretches so much. The mesh squares are spaced 5 x 5 inches apart.
As with anything that is rubber, you want to make sure not to leave this out in the sun all day. Elasticity will suffer as it doesn’t have a string core. This does include a storage bag.
4. Gladiator Cargo Net - RipProof Mesh Cargo Tarp
If you’re looking for something that is going to last a long time, the Gladiator Cargo Net is a quality purchase.
But, it’s also going to cost quite a bit more than other options. This is more of a tarp/net hybrid than your traditional cargo net.
They have 4 sizes to fit nearly all sizes of truck beds. Instead of the usual clips and plastic hooks, they include 4 heavy duty straps with metal hooks on the end. You can be sure this thing will keep everything in place as there isn’t much give.
If you’re hauling things more often than your average Joe, this is definitely worth a second look!
FAQS
I’m going to be hauling really heavy things, is a cargo net the best option for me?
If that’s the case, no. We recommend cargo bars for heavier items, or a tarp. That’s because a weakness of netting is that it can rip or stretch if weight is too much.
Nets work best for containing a lot of smaller to medium items that don’t weigh a lot. If you can imagine, taking a turn at a reasonable speed with a heavy item will put a lot of strain on a net that leads to tears.
What other ways can I secure a load in my truck bed?
As we mentioned before, a cargo bar is great for heavy items. The netting in this guide is also good for smaller to medium items. Lastly, consider getting a rubber mat to lay down in your truck bed.
It’s harder to things to go sliding across your truck when you provide some extra friction that a rubber mat will add. Cargo bags are also a middleground option if you’re looking to protect things from the elements.
Why do you suggest metal hooks over plastic?
For longevity purposes, metal hooks are going to do better in the elements. To add to that, if you get cargo nets with a rubber core, be sure to try your best to shield them from heat. If you’ve ever left a rubber band out in the sun and then tried to stretch it, you’ll understand what we mean.
Conclusion
Securing your truck bed is a priority among all owners. Hopefully, we’ve helped you make an informed decision that will also make your life a little bit easier.
If you ended up grabbing one of these options, let us know how it turned out for you. For heavy-duty use, we recommend the Gladiator. But, that comes at a cost. For lighter to medium use, the Grit Performance Net should work just fine.
Good luck on your search!