What is a Headache Rack?

What is a headache rack - Three metal headache rack designs

What Is A Headache Rack?

One of the questions that might linger to those who are not familiar with a headache rack is “What is a headache rack?” Or “why is it called a headache rack?”.

A headache rack is one simple, but highly functional, portion of a trucker’s essential equipment that provides safety for the trucker, functionality, and visual appeal. If you are looking to improve the utility of your truck, these racks are one of the best upgrades to consider. A headache rack is essential in Canada to protect our trucks from harsh weather and rugged terrains. They can be tailored to your individual needs, making it easier for you to transport various types of freights. Whether you are planning to buy a headache rack or want to obtain additional information about it, here is an overview of what a headache rack is:

What Does A Headache Rack Do?

So what does a headache rack do? Headache racks ensure protection and safety. Trucks experience collisions or sudden breaks. Items loaded in a truck end up crashing through the rear window when these happen. This is where the headache rack comes into play by serving as a barrier between the cargo and the cab of the truck.

It is not only safety that the headache rack is capable of providing because it can also enhance the overall functionality of your truck. For instance, if you need to strap down cargo securely, there are headache racks that come with integrated tie down points. The purpose of this feature is to provide stability for large items or even irregularly shaped items.

Some headache racks also come with extra features such as mounting points to keep truck accessories secure. Regardless of the tasks your truck will carry out, a headache rack equipment will make sure you are ready to roll.

Headache racks are not only intended for safety, protection and functionality as it also provides visual appeal. These racks give your truck professional appearance, signifying trucker’s readiness to take on the challenges that transporting cargos entails.

What Is A Headache Rack And Types of Headache Racks

What is a headache rack? In its simplest term, a headache rack is a cab guard, installed on your vehicle. It enables truck owners to haul heavy or awkward items safely. Aside from guaranteed safety, headache racks are compliant to Canadian transportation safety standards. The type of headache rack to choose will depend on your unique needs. They are ideal for the Canadian wilderness, offering both protection and visibility. Whether you are seeking safety, functionality or convenience, there is a headache rack designed for these needs and preferences.

1. Stainless Steel Headache Racks:
Stainless steel headache racks are known for their durability. They are also resistant to corrosion, making them the preferred choice among truck owners searching for high-quality truck equipment and professional appearance.
Stainless steel is one of the best materials that can withstand Canadian winters, resisting corrosion even in the harshest conditions. These racks are made to last, providing solid support against collisions and abrupt stops. If structural integrity is your priority a stainless headache rack will not disappoint. It provides good value for money as it requires less maintenance.

2. Aluminum Headache Racks:
Aluminum is also a frontrunner when it comes to strength and durability. Aluminum headache racks are lightweight yet durable, suitable for Canada’s varied climate. Its quality is not the only reason it stands out among truck owners because it also provides efficiency and stability.
Headache racks crafted with aluminum provide aesthetic appeal with its wide selection of finishes and designs. Truck owners can customize their vehicles without compromising on functionality and maneuverability.

3. Mesh Backing Headache Racks:
Achieving protection and visibility is difficult to achieve when searching for headache racks. The good news is that headache racks with a mesh backing provide the best of both worlds. The mesh design acts as a barrier to prevent dislodging items due to the vehicle’s constant motion.
The protection it offers does not limit truck owners from seeing through to the rear. The design makes things visible to the driver, ensuring comfort and convenience while on the road. Mesh backing headache racks remove distraction without limiting or sacrificing your hauling needs.

4. Louvered Headache Racks:
The angled slats or also referred to as louvers are intended to keep your rear cab window well-ventilated. These racks, with the shade they provide, minimize the heat of the sun so truck owners will stay comfortable while driving. Louvered headache racks are the best option for those seeking ultimate protection against sun exposure.

Benefits of Headache Racks

Are headache racks worth it? If you are still weighing the pros and cons of headache racks, it is best to get started by exploring its benefits.

Safe Cargo Transportation

The greatest fear of truck owners and drivers is to cause damage to transported items. While inevitable, damaging items is preventable by installing a headache rack. Safety is one of the top benefits of having a headache rack installed because it does not only protect your cargo but your vehicle as well. Even during transit, your items are kept safe and stable, preventing potential damage.

Passenger Safety

Headache racks are not only provided to items being transported but also to truck owners. Since racks have safety features that prevent items from sliding, truck owners are kept safe because there is a sturdy separation between them and the cargo.

Personalize with Accessories

Enhancements are not only meant to make vehicles visually pleasing because they also provide visibility, safety and convenience. Headache racks, for instance, go beyond style, design and appearance. They are practical, safe, secure, and functional. These racks give your truck a professional look, showing it’s ready for the challenges of transporting cargo across Canada.

Practical Design Features

Headache racks have a compact design that can fit tight spaces. It is considered practical because it improves maneuverability and visibility without setting other essential aspects, like safety aside. It comes with different styles to match your preference and needs.

Verduyn Tarps Headache Racks

Protection, organization and appeal rolled into one. Verduyn Tarps headache racks and accessories are your perfect companion for transporting items without worrying about storage or safety. As a proud Canadian company, Verduyn Tarps offers headache racks designed to meet the specific needs of Canadian truckers.

Verduyn Vault Checkerplate Headache Rack With Chain Racks & Tray

Made with aluminum alloy, Verduyn Vault Checkerplate Headache Rack With Chain Racks and Tray provides high quality protection without sacrificing visual appeal.

Verduyn Vault Checkerplate Headache Rack With Chain Racks, Trays, And Center Vault

This headache rack does not fall short of storage options. It is suitable for storing shovels, steel tarps, spare tires, 3/8″ chains, rubber straps, cheater bars, chain binders, portable cargo straps, brooms, corner protections, 4′ dunnage boards, coil racks, 5/16″ chains, V boards, 8′ dunnage boards, lumber tarps, ladders.

3 Door Checkerplate Headache Rack With Cam Locks

Truck owners can carry heavier loads without worrying about fuel costs because of the efficiency of 3 Door Checkerplate Headache Rack With Cam Locks. This rack has two shelves and a chain rack for optimal functionality.

Get Superior Protection and Versatility For Your Truck With Verduyn Tarps’ Headache Racks

Now that you have answers to the question “What is a headache rack?” and if you are wondering, “Are headache racks universal?”, they need to be customized to match your hauling needs. Mounting points and dimensions will be taken into consideration. Verduyn Tarps provides expert guidance on headache racks and their accessories. Equip your truck with premium headache racks. For expert guidance on headache racks and accessories, trust Verduyn Tarps, the leader in Canadian truck equipment. Call 888-277-7787 for more information.