The 10 Best Cargo Bars
This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in August of 2019. Whether you're moving cross-country or simply trying to get a few things home from the store, a cargo bar can help ensure nothing is broken by the time you arrive. We've included models that extend across truck beds and trailers as well as those that attach to the roof of a car. While these selections can keep your stuff secure, always double-check your load before getting on the road. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Sparehand QSP-360
2. Reese Explore
3. DC Cargo Mall
Editor's Notes
March 03, 2021:
With no apparent reason to remove any of our existing choices, nor any exciting new options presenting cause to be added to our list, these rankings appeared to still be in good shape, and so it was a fast round of updates without any new inclusions or exclusions. With the opinion that the last editor for this page did a good job of putting together a sensible mix of options – including the US Cargo Control, which is large enough for use in moving vans, and the CargoLoc Roof Top, which can be secured to the roof of a smaller vehicle – we decided to leave our existing list intact while we wait for our next round of updates, to see if any promising new options have come to market by then.
For further moving solutions, you might be interested in our lists of moving blankets and arm straps for moving.
August 16, 2019:
There are a variety of models to choose from on this list, and the right one for you will depend in large part on what kind of vehicle you have. Pickups, vans, and trailers will do best with a standard bar, while smaller cars should opt for a bar that can be attached to the roof.
The Keeper 05060 is somewhat of an exception to that rule, however. It's small enough to fit in a car trunk, and the netting is fantastic for holding groceries, school gear, or any of the other odds and ends that accumulate in a vehicle. It's not ideal for trucks, though, as the netting is a little too short to fully reach across for most beds.
Keep in mind that these bars are only designed to prevent things from sliding while in transit — they're not intended to fully lock them in place. Ideally, they would be paired with some ratchet straps for added security; in fact, straps or rope are a necessity for the rooftop models. And, regardless of what you use to secure your load, be sure to check it multiple times before you get out on the road and keep an eye on it once you're there, as neither bars nor straps are guaranteed to prevent things from flying out of your truck bed or off your car's roof.
Special Honors
Yakima HD This model makes securing your load as painless as possible, as it sports multiple integrated tie-down points, allowing you to set up your rope or straps exactly where they need to be. Campers will especially love how easy it makes transporting large tents. rackattack.com
Front Runner Load Bar Kit Your truck will be much more versatile with this mounted on, as it allows you to carry a good-sized load without interfering with the tailgate. It has sliding T-nut locks that allow you to quickly add and remove equipment and accessories. frontrunneroutfitters.com
Thule Aeroblade Edge This bar has WindDiffuser technology to limit the drag it creates, so your car's fuel efficiency won't be dramatically affected. It also has a tensioning tool that lets you know when it's properly attached, so your stuff won't fly off as you drive down the freeway. thule.com
4. Rage Powersports
5. Shippers Supplies
6. US Cargo Control
7. Keeper 05056
8. CargoLoc Roof Top
9. ProGrip 900902
10. Keeper 05060
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.