There are three main types of truck bed extenders, each functioning uniquely.
Standard Truck Bed Extender:
A standard bed extender essentially acts as a metal cage that helps contain cargo. Instead of driving with your tailgate up like usual, you would leave it down and load cargo using that extra space. The cage, or the bed extender, contains everything inside the truck bed the way your tailgate normally would. They’re simple, easy to D.I.Y., and super space-saving.
Trailer Hitch Bed Extender:
This type of bed extender connects to the trailer hitch of your truck. It serves as an appendage supporting lengthy items jutting out from the truck bed. Mount the extender to your hitch and set it to the right length for whatever extra-long cargo you need to haul. This could be logs of lumber, PVC pipe, or a very long kayak. Strap the cargo down, and you’re ready to go! This type of bed extender can also be used as a hitch-mounted bike carrier. The versatility and functionality of hitch bed extenders are unmatched!
Bed Trays or Bedslides:
The least common type of truck bed extenders are bed trays or bedslides. Bedslides are installed directly onto the bottom of the truck bed. They slide out when needed, providing a workstation platform or making it easy to unload cargo. When unused, they slide neatly into the truck bed, acting as a large drawer to shelve and organize cargo.
These slide-out truck bed extenders are a bit more complicated and time-consuming to install. They are quite different than the first two bed extenders. The extension feature of bedslides is for stationary use only. However, the benefits include a platform to organize and easily access your tools. This allows users to avoid the struggle of awkwardly lugging heavy cargo while climbing into their truck beds. Another perk of bedslides is the ability to convert your truck bed into one colossal, organized drawer for all of your bulky items.