For tradespeople working in plumbing, heating, or construction, getting pipes to site safely is as important as any other part of the job. A damaged length of copper or plastic pipe isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s lost time and money. Roof-mounted pipe carriers solve the problem, but not all are built equally. This guide compares the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 — the current model replacing the RP21, now available in a sleek black finish — against four leading alternatives, so you can make an informed choice.

At a Glance: Pipe Carrier Comparison

Pipe Carrier	Price (inc VAT)	Material	Length	Security Lock	Weather Resistant
Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31	£230.99	6063A T6 Aluminium	3m
Van Vault S10520	£184.99	Steel	3.152m
Aero-Tech 3m Pipe Carrier	£77.00	Unspecified	3m
Hunter GS795 Bracket Set	£163.38	Steel	Varies
TopSystem Transport Tube	£517.06	Unspecified	4m (2-section)

Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 — £230.99 inc VAT

alt=”Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 universal van pipe carrier” width=”1024″ height=”770″ />

The Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 is the benchmark against which other van pipe carriers should be measured. Built from T6 Aluminium Alloy — the same grade used in aerospace and automotive applications — it strikes an ideal balance between strength and weight. Unlike steel alternatives, aluminium won’t rust, meaning it maintains its integrity and appearance even after years of exposure to rain, road salt, and UV.

Installation takes around 15 minutes and is designed as a one-person job — supplied with a standard fitting bracket and spacers compatible with Rhino roof racks, roof bars, and most other systems. The locking system is integral to both nose cones rather than relying on an exposed padlock, and a hidden rubber O-ring seal in each bulkhead creates a watertight barrier when closed. The RP31B also carries full professional safety accreditation with crash-tested bulkheads — an important detail for tradespeople working under health and safety obligations.

Key strengths

• 6063A T6 Aluminium body with 30% glass-filled nylon nose cones — lightweight, corrosion-proof, and built to last
• Integral locking on both nose cones — more tamper-resistant than an exposed padlock shackle
• Hidden rubber O-ring seal in each bulkhead — watertight when closed, keeping pipe contents dry in all conditions
• 66 × 15mm tube capacity (unlined) — dual end openings for fast loading from either side
• 50kg maximum load — crash-tested bulkheads with full professional safety accreditation
• 15-minute one-person installation — supplied with bracket and spacers, fits Rhino racks, bars, and other systems
• Available in three lengths: 3030mm, 4060mm, 5090mm
• RRP £339.52 — currently £230.99 — significant saving on list price

Verdict: The standout choice for tradespeople who need a reliable, theft-resistant pipe carrier that will last the life of the van.

Buy Now — £230.99 inc VAT

Van Vault S10520 Security Tube — £184.99 inc VAT

Van Vault is a well-established name in van security, and the S10520 Security Tube reflects that pedigree. Its heavy-duty steel shell offers genuine resistance to forced entry, and the locking mechanism is robust by any measure. For tradespeople working in high-theft areas, this level of physical security is reassuring.

The trade-off is weight. Steel is considerably heavier than aluminium, which has a knock-on effect on fuel consumption and payload capacity — a real consideration if your van is already carrying tools and materials. The additional bulk can also make fitting and daily removal less convenient. At £184.99 it’s the closest rival to the Rhino on price, but once you factor in the extra weight and the long-term cost of potential corrosion (steel requires maintenance aluminium simply doesn’t), the gap in value narrows significantly.

Key points

• Heavy-duty steel construction — excellent physical resistance to attack
• Secure locking mechanism — strong deterrent against opportunistic theft
• Heavier than aluminium alternatives — adds to payload and affects fuel economy
• Susceptible to corrosion over time — requires maintenance in wet or salty environments
• £184.99 — cheaper upfront, but running costs may be higher

Verdict: A credible option if security is the absolute priority and weight isn’t a concern, but the Rhino RP31 offers better all-round value for most tradespeople.

Aero-Tech 3m Pipe Carrier — £77.00

The Aero-Tech is the budget option in this comparison, and the price reflects it. At £77.00 it’s accessible for tradespeople who need a temporary or occasional solution, and its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. For a sole trader doing the odd job that requires pipe transport, it may do the job in the short term.

However, the compromises are significant. There’s no integrated locking system, which means pipes — and the carrier itself — are vulnerable to theft whenever the van is left unattended. The construction lacks the weather-sealing of the Rhino, leaving pipes exposed to rain ingress and road dirt. Over time, the build quality is unlikely to match the demands of daily professional use, meaning replacement costs could quickly erode any initial saving.

Key points

• Very low entry price at £77.00 — accessible for occasional or light use
• Lightweight and easy to handle — simple to move between vans
• No security locking — unsuitable for unattended parking in public
• Limited weather protection — pipes exposed to rain and debris
• Build quality may not suit daily professional use

Verdict: Fine for very occasional use, but not recommended for tradespeople who rely on their pipe carrier every day. The cost saving over the Rhino RP31 is quickly lost if pipes are damaged or stolen.

Hunter Plumbing Pipe Carrier and Bracket Set GS795 — £163.38 inc VAT

The Hunter GS795 takes a different approach — rather than a fully enclosed tube, it uses a bracket-and-carrier system. This can make it easier to load and unload pipes quickly without threading them into a tube, which some tradespeople prefer for shorter or varied pipe lengths.

The downsides are meaningful, though. Without an enclosed tube design, pipes are exposed to the elements during transit, and there’s no locking mechanism to deter theft. For jobs where you might leave the van parked on a residential street for several hours, that’s a genuine vulnerability. The steel construction also brings the same long-term corrosion concerns as the Van Vault. At £163.38 it sits in an awkward middle ground — not cheap enough to be a throwaway solution, not capable enough to replace a properly enclosed, lockable carrier.

Key points

• Open bracket design — easier loading for varied or short pipe lengths
• No enclosed tube — pipes exposed to weather and road debris in transit
• No security locking — pipes and carrier vulnerable to theft
• Steel construction — heavier and susceptible to rust without maintenance
• £163.38 — mid-range price without mid-range capability

Verdict: The open bracket system suits occasional, flexible loading, but the lack of security and weather protection makes it a poor choice for everyday professional use.

TopSystem Transport Tube 4000mm 2-Section — £517.06 inc VAT

The TopSystem stands apart from the others in one key respect: its adjustable 2-section design extends to 4 metres, making it the go-to option for anyone regularly transporting longer pipe runs. If your work frequently involves 4m lengths — common in commercial heating or larger domestic installs — this is worth serious consideration.

The price, however, is a steep £517.06 — more than double the Rhino RP31 and over six times the Aero-Tech. For most plumbers and heating engineers working with standard 3m pipe lengths, that premium isn’t justified. The carrier also lacks the weather-resistant sealing of the Rhino, which is a notable omission at this price point. It’s a specialist tool rather than an everyday solution.

Key points

• 4m adjustable 2-section design — essential for longer pipe lengths
• Locking system included — reasonable security for the price
• No weather-resistant sealing — a significant gap at this price point
• £517.06 — significantly more expensive than all alternatives
• Overkill for standard 3m pipe work — best suited to specialist applications

Verdict: Only worth the premium if you’re regularly carrying 4m-plus pipes. For standard 3m work, the Rhino RP31 is the better investment at less than half the price.

Conclusion: Which Pipe Carrier Should You Choose?

Each of these carriers has a use case, but for the majority of plumbers, heating engineers, and contractors who need a dependable, daily-use pipe carrier, the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 is the clear recommendation. It combines the three things that matter most on a working van: security against theft, protection against the elements, and construction quality that holds up over years of use — all at a price that represents genuine value against its RRP.

The Van Vault offers strong security but carries a weight penalty. The Aero-Tech is cheap but lacks the features a working tradesperson depends on. The Hunter bracket set suits occasional use but leaves pipes exposed. The TopSystem earns its place only if 4m pipe lengths are a regular requirement.

If you’re equipping a van for the long term, buy once and buy right.

Order the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 Today

RRP: £339.52 — Now £230.99 inc VAT (£192.49 ex VAT)

Fits most commercial vans in around 15 minutes.

Buy the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 — £230.99

Need to kit out a fleet? We support large orders and are happy to discuss requirements for any number of vehicles.

sales@vanroofrack.co.uk

The post Comparing Pipe Carriers: The Rhino PipeTube Pro RP21 vs Other Top Brands appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

The Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31B is the successor to the popular RP21 and Rhino’s premier solution for the safe and secure transport of copper pipe, plastic conduit, and other long materials. It combines a refreshed modern aesthetic with professional-grade durability, built to meet the standards of commercial vehicle users across Europe.

Technical Specifications

Key Features

Premium Finish

The RP31B is available in a durable powder-coated black finish, providing a refined, professional look that pairs cleanly with the black roof bars and racks fitted as standard to most modern commercial vans. A sleek anodised silver version is also available if you prefer a classic finish.

Huge Carrying Capacity

As an unlined pipe carrier, the RP31B holds up to 66 × 15mm copper tubes — maximising internal volume without a plastic lining eating into usable space. If you’re carrying plastic pipes or materials where surface contact marks would be an issue, the PVC-lined variant holds 59 × 15mm tubes and provides a protective barrier throughout transit. Both variants support a maximum load of 50kg.

Dual Access

Twin openings at both ends allow quick, convenient loading and unloading from either side of the vehicle. No slow threading of pipes from a single point — a practical time-saver when you’re on site and working to a schedule.

Integral Locking System

Both nose cones are equipped with a locking system to secure and protect your materials. Built into the carrier itself rather than relying on an aftermarket padlock, the lock point is more tamper-resistant than an exposed shackle — and there’s nothing separate to lose.

Weather Protection

A hidden rubber O-ring seal inside each bulkhead creates a watertight seal when the nose cone is closed, preventing water ingress during transit. Whether the van is parked overnight or covering motorway miles in heavy rain, pipe contents stay dry and protected.

Certified Safety

The RP31B features crash-tested bulkheads and has received full professional safety accreditation — an important consideration for tradespeople working under health and safety obligations.

Fast, One-Person Installation

Designed for a quick one-person installation completable in approximately 15 minutes. Supplied with a standard fitting bracket and spacers to ensure compatibility with Rhino roof racks, roof bars, and other systems — no specialist tools or vehicle-specific brackets required in most cases.

Unlined or Lined?

The RP31B unlined is the right choice if you primarily carry copper tube — the larger internal capacity (66 vs 59 × 15mm tubes) means you can fit more per run, and copper is robust enough not to be marked by contact with the aluminium interior. For plastic pipes, push-fit fittings, or any material where surface appearance matters, the lined variant is worth the modest reduction in capacity. Read our full guide: Which pipe carrier is right for me — unlined or lined?

Order the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31B Today

RRP: £339.52 inc VAT — Our price: £230.99 inc VAT (£192.49 ex VAT)

Buy Now — £230.99 inc VAT

We also support large fleet orders and are happy to discuss requirements for any number of vehicles.

sales@vanroofrack.co.uk

The post Maximising Van Storage with the Rhino PipeTube Pro RP31 Van Pipe Carrier appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

Van pipe carriers — also known as pipe tubes or conduit carriers — are roof-mounted aluminium tubes designed to transport pipes and long materials safely on commercial vans. They come in two distinct variants: unlined and lined. The difference matters more than most buyers initially realise, and choosing the wrong type can mean damaged stock, surface marks on plastic pipes, or simply paying more than you need to. This guide explains exactly what sets them apart and which is right for your work.

Quick Comparison

Unlined Van Pipe Carriers

Unlined carriers are constructed from aluminium with no internal lining — just open space from end to end. The Rhino RP31B is built from 6063A T6 aluminium with 30% glass-filled nylon nose cones, weighing 12.74kg and holding up to 66 × 15mm tubes. Both nose cones lock independently, and a hidden rubber O-ring seal in each bulkhead keeps water out when closed.

• Higher capacity: Without an internal lining taking up space, unlined carriers hold more pipes — 66 × 15mm tubes vs 59 in the lined equivalent. Over a working week, that can mean fewer trips to the merchant.
• Lower weight: At 12.74kg vs 17kg for the lined version, the unlined carrier puts less load on your roof rack and marginally improves fuel economy over time.
• Lower cost: Unlined carriers are typically less expensive to buy, making them the practical choice when surface protection isn’t a requirement.
• Minimal surface protection: Pipes sit directly against the aluminium interior. Copper tube handles this without issue, but softer or more valuable materials may pick up light contact marks during transit.

Best for: Plumbers and heating engineers who primarily carry copper tube. Copper is robust enough that minor contact marks from the carrier interior don’t affect its use, and the extra capacity and lower weight make the unlined version the better day-to-day choice.

View the Rhino RP31B Unlined →

Lined Van Pipe Carriers

Lined carriers feature an internal PVC lining that creates a protective barrier between your pipes and the aluminium shell. The Rhino RP32B shares the same 6063A T6 aluminium body, locking nose cones, and O-ring weather seals as the RP31B, with the addition of a full internal lining. It weighs 17kg and holds 59 × 15mm tubes.

• Full surface protection: The PVC lining cushions pipes against contact with the carrier interior, preventing marks, scratches, or abrasion during transit — critical for plastic push-fit, chrome, or any pipe where appearance matters.
• Enhanced moisture barrier: The lining adds an additional layer between pipe contents and any condensation or water ingress, offering extra protection for long-distance or long-duration storage.
• Slightly lower capacity: The lining reduces internal volume, meaning 59 × 15mm tubes rather than 66. For most jobs this isn’t a practical issue, but it’s worth being aware of on larger installs.
• Heavier and higher cost: At 17kg the lined version is 4.26kg heavier than the unlined, and it carries a higher price tag to reflect the additional materials.

Best for: Tradespeople carrying plastic push-fit pipe, barrier pipe, chrome fittings, or any other material where surface condition matters. Also the better choice for coastal or high-humidity environments, or when pipes will be stored in the carrier for extended periods between jobs.

View the Rhino RP32B Lined →

Which Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to what you’re carrying and how much you value capacity versus surface protection:

• Mainly copper tube? Go unlined. The RP31B gives you more capacity, less weight, and a lower price — and copper is resilient enough not to care about contact with the carrier interior.
• Plastic pipe, push-fit, or chrome? Go lined. The RP32B’s PVC lining prevents surface marks and keeps materials in better condition between merchant and site.
• Mixed use or unsure? The lined RP32B is the safer all-round choice — the capacity difference is modest, and you’ll never regret having the extra protection.

Both the RP31B and RP32B share the same core specifications: 6063A T6 aluminium body, 30% glass-filled nylon nose cones with integral locks, hidden rubber O-ring weather seals, 50kg maximum load rating, crash-tested bulkheads with full professional safety accreditation, and a one-person 15-minute installation compatible with Rhino roof racks, bars, and most other systems.

The post Which Pipe Tube Carrier is right for me? Unlined or Lined? appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

Step-by-step installation

1. Preparation and pre-assembly

Unbox and lay out all components on cardboard to avoid scratches; count parts against the parts list. Assemble crossbars and feet loosely so you can fine-tune alignment once on the roof.

2. Preparing the roof

Park on a level surface and remove the factory bolt covers from the Transit Custom roof. Clean the mounting area and inspect for corrosion or damage before fitting.

3. Fitting the roof bars

Position the assembled rack on the roof and align with the factory bolt holes. Insert bolts and hand-tighten; use a measuring tape to centre the rack left-to-right. Leave bolts slightly loose to allow final alignment of side rails and crossbars.

4. Fitting the side rails and crossbars

Attach side rails to the crossbars and set crossbar spacing to suit your load. Tighten bolts progressively and, where possible, torque to the manufacturer’s specification.

5. Final inspection and test

Inspect every fastener and torque to spec where possible. Gently shake the rack to confirm stability and re-check bolts after the first 50 miles and after heavy loads.

The post Fitting a Rhino Black KammRack to a New Model 2024 Transit Custom LWB appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

What You’ll Need for Installation

Before climbing up to begin the setup, let’s gather the necessary tools and components to ensure a smooth workflow:

• ULTI Bar+ roof bars kit (Ford Transit Connect specific)
• Necessary basic hand tools (spanners, screwdrivers, and Allen keys as specified in your kit)
• A step ladder and a clean, well-lit working area

Once your workspace is prepped, let’s dive into the step-by-step installation process.

1. Assessing the Van Roof

Start by examining the roof of your Ford Transit Connect to identify the optimal placement for the roof bars. Take note of the factory-drilled mounting points and ensure the roof surface is clear of any dirt or debris that might interfere with a flush fit.

2. Preparing the ULTI Bar+ Kit

Unbox and lay out all the components of the ULTI Bar+ kit. Check your parts list to ensure every bracket, bolt, and bar is accounted for and ready to go. Crucial step: Make sure you thoroughly read the official manufacturer instructions before tightening any hardware.

3. Locating the Mounting Points

Locate and carefully pop off the plastic mounting point covers on your van’s roof. This will expose the threaded attachment holes specifically designed by Ford for installing aftermarket roof racks.

4. Fitting the Roof Brackets and Bars

Position the base roof brackets over the exposed mounting points and insert the provided hardware. To guarantee a snug and stable fit, you will need to secure and tighten the bolts from the inside of the van. Once the brackets are firmly anchored to the roof, place the ULTI bars across them, aligning them evenly on both sides before locking them down into their final position.

5. Adding Load Stops

Slide and attach the included load stops to the upper channels of the bars. These are essential safety accessories designed to prevent your cargo from shifting or sliding laterally during transportation.

6. Final Measurement and Safety Check

Before loading up your van, perform a final measurement check. Ensure that the roof bars are perfectly parallel, properly aligned, and tightly fastened. Give the bars a firm shake to verify there is no play or rattling in the hardware.

Ready for the Road

By following these steps and referencing the accompanying images, you can successfully and safely install ULTI Bar+ roof bars on your Ford Transit Connect van. With your new roof rack system fully operational, you’ll be ready to tackle demanding hauling needs and optimize your daily workflow with complete confidence. Happy driving!

Need further assistance or advice on outfitting your commercial van? Please don’t hesitate to contact our team at sales@vanroofrack.co.uk or leave a comment below!

The post Fitting a set of Van Guard ULTI Bar+ roof bars to a Ford Transit Connect appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

Embarking on outdoor adventures or maximizing your commercial vehicle’s utility often requires extra space, and that’s where a reliable roof rack comes into play. For Vauxhall Movano owners seeking to enhance their vehicle’s carrying capacity, the Rhino Modular Roof Rack stands out as a top-notch solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the seamless process of fitting the Rhino Modular Roof Rack onto your Vauxhall Movano, unlocking a world of possibilities for transporting gear, equipment, or goods. Whether you’re a weekend explorer, tradesperson, or someone in between, join us as we navigate through the steps to elevate both your vehicle’s functionality and your overall experience on the road.

Stage 1: Preparing to Unbox Your Rhino Modular Roof Rack

1. 1. Verification of Order: Start by verifying that the components you’ve received match your order. Confirm that the Rhino Modular Roof Rack kit includes all the specified parts and accessories. Carefully cross-reference the items with the packing list to make sure you have everything needed for the installation process.

1. 1. Compatibility Check: Double check that the Rhino Modular Roof Rack you’ve received is tailored for your specific van model. Rhino manufacture Modular Racks for many makes and models of van, and they each come with specific fitting kits.

Stage 2: Unboxing Your Rhino Modular Roof Rack

Before you dive into the fitting process, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the components of the Rhino Modular Roof Rack.

Carefully unpack the box to reveal the precision-engineered parts that will soon enhance your Vauxhall Movano’s carrying capacity.

Thorough Parts Inspection: Lay out all the parts in a well-lit and spacious area. Refer to the itemized sheet included in the packaging to verify quantities and confirm that each part is in pristine condition. Check for any signs of damage, scratches, or dents that may have occurred during shipping.

Photographic Documentation: Take a proactive approach to potential issues by capturing detailed photographs of each part before the fitting process begins. Pay close attention to any areas that show signs of damage, and keep these images for reference. This step serves as a visual record, helping in case you need to contact us to resolve issues.

Stage 2: Attaching the Brackets to Your Vauxhall Movano’s Roof

The foundation of a secure roof rack installation lies in the attachment of brackets to your vehicle’s roof. Ensure a clean and stable surface by thoroughly cleaning the roof area where the brackets will be placed. Then, follow the Rhino Modular Roof Rack’s instruction manual to affix the brackets securely. These brackets serve as the anchor points for the entire system, guaranteeing stability and safety during your travels.

Stage 3: Installing the Rhino Modular Roof Rack

With the brackets securely in place, it’s time to assemble the Rhino Modular Roof Rack and attach it to the brackets. Carefully position the assembled roof rack onto the installed brackets, making sure all components align correctly. Tighten the provided bolts securely, double-checking to confirm that every element is fastened according to the Rhino’s specifications.

Stage 4: A Finished View – Ready for Work

Stand back and admire the transformation of your Vauxhall Movano. The Rhino Modular Roof Rack seamlessly integrates with the vehicle, presenting a sleek and functional design. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, transporting construction materials, or anything in between, your Vauxhall Movano is now equipped for the journey ahead.

In conclusion, fitting a Rhino Modular Roof Rack to your Vauxhall Movano is a straightforward process that unlocks a world of possibilities for your vehicle. Enhance your adventures and streamline your work with this durable and reliable roof rack system. As you hit the road with confidence, you’ll appreciate the added versatility and convenience that the Rhino Modular Roof Rack brings to your Vauxhall Movano.

To view our range of Rhino Roof Racks in both Black and Silver please visit our online store at Movano Roof Racks 

Please comment below if you want us to clarify any points in this article.

The post Fitting a Rhino Modular Rack to a 2023 Vauxhall Movano appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

Crafted with a meticulous balance of strength and flexibility, Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking offers a lightweight yet durable metal solution. Its core purpose? To systematically store and organize power tools and components, elevating efficiency within the workspace.

Quality at an Accessible Price:

One of the standout features of Van Guard’s offering is its premium quality without the hefty price tag. The Trade Van Racking doesn’t compromise on excellence while remaining remarkably affordable. Manufactured in Britain, it upholds Van Guard’s commitment to producing top-tier commercial vehicle products at accessible price points.

Customized Solutions for Every Need:

Van Guard recognizes that one size doesn’t fit all. Hence, their range is tailored to fit specific vans, ensuring a snug and optimized fit for various makes and models available in the market. Whether you seek a basic setup or a comprehensive storage solution, the Trade Van Racking offers Bronze, Silver, and Gold packages configured as full van kits or as nearside and offside units.

• Bronze Package: Ideal for starters, this package covers essential shelving for basic storage needs, including offside and nearside shelves.
• Silver Package: Stepping up, the Silver package amplifies convenience with added features like shelves, a drop-down door, rubber matting, and racking bins for a more organized setup.
• Gold Package: The epitome of efficiency and versatility, the Gold package encompasses shelves, a drop-down door, a drawer, rubber matting, and racking bins, catering to all conceivable storage requirements.

Effortless Assembly and Rigorous Testing:

Ease of assembly is another hallmark of Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking. It’s straightforward to put together, ensuring minimal downtime in setting up your workspace. Moreover, each unit has undergone rigorous crash-testing, meeting and exceeding industry standards for safety and reliability.

In a nutshell, Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking isn’t just about storing tools; it’s a comprehensive system designed to enhance productivity, safety, and organization for tradespeople. With its range of packages and customization options, it’s a testament to innovation meeting the practical needs of the modern tradesperson.

If you’re a tradesperson seeking an efficient and reliable storage solution, Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking might just be the upgrade your workspace needs.

Find your ideal racking today at https://www.vanroofrack.co.uk/racking-and-shelving

The post Maximizing Efficiency: Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking for the Modern Tradesperson appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

For tradespeople, time spent searching for tools and materials is time that could be spent completing jobs and serving customers. An organised van not only improves efficiency but also helps protect equipment, maximise available storage space and create a more professional working environment.

Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, builder, engineer or maintenance contractor, a dedicated van racking and shelving system can transform the way you work. By giving every tool and component a designated place, you’ll spend less time searching and more time getting the job done.

Benefits of professional van racking include:

• Faster access to tools and equipment
• Improved productivity on-site
• Better protection for expensive power tools
• Safer transportation of materials and components
• Increased storage capacity
• A more professional image for customers

Van Guard Trade Van Racking Systems

Van Guard’s Trade Van Racking range has been developed to provide a practical, durable and affordable storage solution for commercial vehicles. Manufactured in Britain and engineered specifically for the demands of everyday trade use, these aluminium shelving systems help keep tools, consumables and equipment securely organised.

Designed to be lightweight yet incredibly strong, the system minimises the impact on vehicle payload while providing excellent load-carrying capability. Each shelf is capable of supporting up to 30kg, making it ideal for storing tool cases, power tools and everyday accessories.

Key features include:

• Lightweight aluminium construction
• Crash-tested design
• Straight and angled shelf options
• Single and double shelving units
• Adjustable shelf configurations
• Suitable for a wide range of van models
• Manufactured in the UK

A premium product at a non-premium price, our Trade Van Racking is extremely easy to assemble and has been crash tested to industry standards. Available as single or double units to best utilise the load area, and a choice of fully adjustable straight and angled shelves, allows the carrying of tool cases and smaller components.

Chris Angel – Head of Sales, Van Guard

If you’re looking for a high-quality British-manufactured van racking solution, Van Guard’s commitment to quality and value makes the range well worth considering.

Designed and manufactured here in Britain, the range fulfils Van Guard’s constant theme of manufacturing premium quality commercial vehicle products that are priced at an extremely affordable level.

Chris Angel – Head of Sales, Van Guard

Complete Van Racking Kits

A complete Van Guard Trade Van Racking Kit provides an instant storage solution for your vehicle. Available in various configurations, these kits typically include shelving for both sides of the load area, creating a practical workspace while maintaining access to larger equipment.

The modular design allows tradespeople to customise their van layout around their daily requirements, making it easier to transport everything from power tools and fittings to consumables and stock.

Because the units are manufactured primarily from aluminium, they offer an excellent balance between strength and weight, helping to maximise your available payload without compromising durability.

Each shelf has been designed to carry up to 30kg, making it ideal for transporting toolboxes, power tools, fixings and essential job materials securely.

Van Racking Accessories for Maximum Organisation

Once you’ve installed your shelving system, accessories can help take organisation to the next level.

Van Guard offers a range of storage accessories designed to work seamlessly with the Trade Van Racking system, including:

• Spray can holders
• Storage bins
• Tool hooks
• Cable clips
• Rubber matting
• Equipment holders

These accessories allow you to create dedicated storage locations for frequently used items, helping prevent damage and reducing wasted time searching through your van.

The result is a safer, tidier and more productive working environment that makes every journey and every job more efficient.

Upgrade Your Van Storage Today

If you’re looking for a durable, British-manufactured van racking solution, the Van Guard Trade Van Racking range offers an excellent combination of quality, flexibility and value.

Browse our complete range of van racking and shelving systems to create the perfect storage solution for your commercial vehicle.

If you need help choosing the right van racking kit for your vehicle, our sales team is here to help. Contact us at sales@vanroofrack.co.uk for expert advice and product recommendations.

Shop Van Guard Racking & Shelving Today →

The post Racking, Shelving, Drawers and Tool holders for your Trade Van appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

When choosing roof racks and commercial vehicle accessories, the material you pick affects payload, fuel economy, corrosion resistance, noise, and long‑term durability. Aluminium keeps weight down and improves payload and fuel efficiency, while steel offers higher raw strength and stiffness for heavy‑duty trade use. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right rack for your van and the work you do.

Quick comparison

Roof rack specific considerations

Load ratings and safety

Always check both the vehicle roof’s dynamic and static load ratings and the rack’s published limits. Material alone doesn’t determine safe load — design, mounting points and installation quality matter just as much. Steel frames often resist bending better under concentrated loads, while aluminium systems may require larger sections to match stiffness.

Wind noise and aerodynamics

Aluminium crossbars and low‑profile designs typically generate less wind noise and drag. If you spend a lot of time at motorway speeds, aerodynamic profiles and end caps can noticeably reduce noise and fuel penalty.

Corrosion protection and finish

Powder coating, galvanising and anodising extend service life. Aluminium benefits from anodising; steel benefits from galvanising or high‑quality powder coating. Pay attention to fastener materials and drainage paths to avoid trapped moisture that accelerates corrosion.

Installation and maintenance

Steel is often easier to repair in the field, while aluminium welding requires specialist techniques. Inspect fasteners regularly, torque to the manufacturer’s specification, and re‑check after the first 50 miles and after carrying heavy loads.

Which material should you choose

• Choose steel for maximum strength, compact structural sections and the lowest material cost for heavy‑duty, trade‑focused racks.
• Choose aluminium when weight savings, corrosion resistance and ease of handling are priorities — ideal for lightweight roof racks, ladder carriers and coastal use.
• Consider hybrid systems that combine a steel subframe with aluminium crossbars to balance strength and weight.

How we apply this at vanroofrack.co.uk

At vanroofrack.co.uk we stock both steel and aluminium roof rack systems and recommend products based on real‑world trade use and longevity. For heavy daily trade work we’ll suggest robust steel options with protective coatings. For maximum payload and corrosion resistance we’ll point you to lightweight aluminium systems.

Browse our full range and compare fitment, load ratings and finishes at vanroofrack.co.uk. If you’re unsure which material suits your van and workload, our team can help you choose the right setup.

Practical buying checklist

• Confirm your vehicle roof load rating and the rack’s dynamic/static ratings.
• Check finish and fastener materials for corrosion resistance.
• Ask for torque specs and installation guidance; re‑check after 50 miles.
• Consider total cost of ownership: initial price, fuel impact and maintenance.

The post Just what is the difference between Steel and Aluminium when it comes to Roof Racks? appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.

The Key Benefits of Commercial Van Roof Racks

1. Maximized Cargo Capacity

The most significant advantage of installing a commercial roof rack system is the immediate boost to your vehicle’s carrying capacity. A heavy-duty roof rack allows you to safely transport oversized materials that simply won’t fit inside the cargo bay. This is an essential upgrade for tradespeople—including builders, electricians, plumbers, and landscapers—who frequently need to haul:

• Step and extension ladders
• Pipes, conduit, and tubing
• Timber and large sheet materials

2. Uncompromising Strength and Durability

Commercial van roof racks are purposefully engineered to withstand the rigorous demands of daily professional use. Whether you opt for heavy-duty galvanized steel for maximum weight capacity or aerodynamically designed aluminium for lightweight, rust-free performance, a premium rack is built to endure rough road conditions and harsh weather. Once properly fitted, these systems guarantee your load remains stable and secure from site to site.

3. Streamlined Daily Workflow

Beyond just adding space, a well-configured roof rack system drastically improves your operational efficiency. Loading and unloading become significantly faster and safer when you integrate smart accessories. These additions help reduce physical strain on workers while keeping the van’s interior clutter-free:

• Rear Rollers: Allow for the effortless loading of heavy ladders or timber without scratching your van’s paintwork.
• Load Stops: Prevent the lateral shifting and sliding of cargo during transit.
• Ladder Clamps: Ensure rapid, lockable, and secure fastening of your ladders.

A Smart Investment for Your Fleet

Ultimately, a high-quality roof rack is a high-ROI investment for any business that relies on a commercial fleet. It maximizes your carrying capacity, boosts on-site productivity, and protects your van’s interior from unnecessary wear, tear, and damage.

Ready to optimize your commercial vehicle? Explore our complete range of professional-grade steel and aluminium van roof rack systems at vanroofrack.co.uk. We stock tailor-made setups for all major van makes and models, and our expert team is ready to help you choose the right setup for your daily workload. For personalized advice, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at sales@vanroofrack.co.uk.

The post Why choose a roof rack? appeared first on Commercial Vehicle News.