A tonneau cover is an excellent investment for your truck. As you shop for covers, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with your choices. Find out how to select the right cover, measure your truck bed and weigh the pros and cons of tonneau covers today.
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How To Properly Measure Your Truck Bed
Before you start comparing tonneau covers for sale, it’s important to know the dimensions of your truck bed. One way to do this is to physically measure its length and width.
Start by measuring the bed length from the inside edge of the tailgate to the bulkhead. This dimension may be slightly longer than the stated measurement of your chosen tonneau cover. For example, a cover that’s described as a 67 inch one fits a truck bed that’s less than an inch longer than that measurement.
Measure the width of your truck bed as well. If you have a bed liner or additional accessories, you may need to work around these to find the right dimensions for your tonneau cover.
An even simpler way to find the right cover is to shop at a reliable online store. Enter the make, model, year and trim level of your pickup to automatically filter out covers that aren’t the right fit.
What Are the Different Truck Best Cover Styles?
Tonneau covers range from soft, affordable roll up styles to rugged, lockable hard covers. Start your search by considering the best cover style for your driving situation:
- Tri fold tonneau cover
- Roll up cover
- Hinged cover
- Retractable cover
Some covers have special features to consider as well. Specialty covers can come with locking mechanisms to reduce the risk of theft. Others are designed to fit around your truck tool box. The price, ease of use and durability of covers all vary depending on the style you choose. You can also find hard or soft versions of each of these cover types. Explore the key differences between hard and soft covers to find the best choice for your truck.
Why Choose a Hard Cover?
Hard covers are an excellent investment for long-term use. Rugged and ready to open and close whenever you need, these covers are dependable for use on the job site or for a long camping trip.
Most hard covers are made of fiberglass and offer impressive water resistance. Most come in black or gray, but you can find covers that match your truck’s paint job for a professional look.
Benefits of a Soft Cover
Soft covers are far more lightweight and manageable. Easily install and uninstall them without the help of a friend or two. A soft cover can still provide great water resistance and protection from UV rays, but it won’t weigh down your truck.
A soft cover is more affordable than a hard cover in many cases. A rigid frame behind the flexible cover keeps your tools, camping gear or groceries safe while you drive.
Make the Switch With a Highly Rated Truck Bed Cover
From a weekend camping trip to daily work trips, there are many situations where a tonneau cover can be the right choice for your ride. Making the switch you might also want to look at truck step rails for more upgrades. Check out name-brand tonneaus online to prepare to make the switch.