What is a pickup box extender?
A pickup box extender is a detachable accessory that lengthens the usable cargo area of a pickup truck’s bed or tailgate, letting you carry longer items than the standard bed would otherwise allow.
How it works and why people use them
Most extenders attach to the rear of the bed or to the tailgate area. They can be fixed or removable and are designed to extend the bed space while still enabling secure transport of long items such as lumber, ladders, pipes, or sporting gear. They are popular with contractors, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who frequently hauls unusually long loads.
Types of pickup box extenders
Here is a quick rundown of common designs you’ll encounter when shopping.
- Bed-mounted extenders that bolt or clamp to the rear of the bed and extend outward beyond the tailgate.
- Tailgate-mounted extenders that attach to the tailgate itself, often sliding or pivoting to reveal or hide the extended area.
- Pivoting or sliding extenders that fold or slide away when not in use to minimize obstruction.
- Hitch-mounted cargo extensions that connect behind the bumper or hitch to provide extra length for long loads.
Each design has different mounting points, compatibility with bed liners and tonneau covers, and varying load capacities. Choose based on how you use your truck, what you carry, and how often you need the extension.
Choosing and using a pickup box extender
When selecting an extender, buyers should consider the truck model and bed size (such as a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed), the desired extended length, weight capacity, installation method, and whether the device works with existing bed accessories like tonneau covers or bed rails. Installation can range from simple clamps to drilled mounts, and some extenders require professional installation.
Key considerations
Look at materials (steel vs aluminum), corrosion resistance, locking features, and warranty. Ensure the extender is rated for your intended cargo and that it complies with local regulations regarding loads that protrude beyond the tailgate or bed edge.
Safety and best practices
Secure loads with appropriate tie-downs, distribute weight evenly, and avoid overloading. Regularly inspect mounting points for wear and tighten fasteners as recommended by the manufacturer. Do not rely on the extender as a primary support for heavy items or as a substitute for proper vehicle payload management.
Summary
A pickup box extender expands a pickup truck’s cargo capability by adding a detachable extension to the bed or tailgate, enabling longer items to be transported more easily. Available in several designs to fit different bed sizes and uses, they require careful selection, correct installation, and diligent safety practices to maximize their value.
How does a box extender work?
Box. If it's a single extender push it into the electrical. Box until the flanges. Rest against the finished. Wall. If it's a multiple extender.
Are truck bed extenders worth it?
A bed extender can assist with longer cargo if your truck didn't come with one from the factory. It's such a useful feature that even the all-electric 2023 Ram 1500 Revolution concept was presented with an added bed extender. What you'll find here are several aftermarket options that meet virtually any budget.
What is a pick up box extender?
A truck bed extender is an accessory that increases the length of a truck bed to haul oversized cargo like ladders, lumber, or kayaks. It can be installed in two ways: attached to a trailer hitch receiver or clamped to the tailgate. When flipped out with the tailgate open, it extends the bed for longer items. When flipped in, it creates an enclosed area to keep smaller items from rolling around.
This video explains the features and benefits of a universal truck bed extender: 57sCURTYouTube · Jul 1, 2021
Types of truck bed extenders
- Hitch-mounted: These attach to a 2-inch trailer hitch receiver and are ideal for carrying long items like lumber, ladders, or kayaks. They are often constructed of steel and may have a load capacity of up to 350 pounds or more.
- Tailgate-mounted: These are designed to attach directly to the tailgate and are often made of aluminum or steel. They can be a good option for people who don't have a trailer hitch or who prefer not to have an extender in their hitch at all times.
- Cage-like: These are a type of hitch-mounted extender that is cage-like in design. They are versatile and can be used for both large and small loads, and they can be easily installed or removed.
- Fold-down: Some extenders have a fold-down design that allows them to lie flat against the tailgate when not in use. This makes them easy to store and transport, and they can also be used as a convenient workspace when the tailgate is open.
- Canvas: These are a less common type of bed extender, made of canvas instead of metal or plastic. They are often water-, UV-, and abrasion-resistant, and some have a special layer to prevent punctures.
How they work
- When flipped out: A truck bed extender can be flipped out to extend the truck bed's length, allowing you to haul long items like lumber, ladders, or kayaks.
- When flipped in: Some extenders can be flipped inside the truck bed to create a secure, enclosed storage area for smaller items, such as tools or groceries. This keeps them from rolling around and causing damage, and also keeps them from being stolen.
Are truck bed extenders legal?
Answer: Yes they are. Keep in mind that when the load extends four feet or more beyond the tailgate or body of the vehicle, it's a good idea to have added support to safely and securely transport your load.
