Best Truck Bed Cargo Nets
Find the right net for your bed length, cargo shape and tie-down locations—without mistaking elastic coverage for rated load restraint.
Compare Current OptionsA cargo net that covers the bed can still fail the real buying test: does it reach usable anchors, stay tensioned around your cargo and suit the way you load the truck? This guide separates size-specific webbing nets from elastic and weather-covering options, then walks through a cargo-first selection method.
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01 Quick picks by load and bed
These picks solve different cargo problems. Bed length alone is a starting point—not a guarantee that a particular truck’s anchor points and load are compatible.
Gladiator lists the GRN-100 for compact five-foot truck beds. Its webbing layout makes it a candidate for irregular gear when the anchor geometry works.
Gladiator identifies the SGN-100 as its net for 5.5-foot short beds, a different footprint from its compact-bed model.
Gladiator lists the MGN-100 for 6.5-foot standard truck beds. The larger net footprint can drape over taller cargo where suitable anchor points exist.
Keeper specifies a 51-by-77-inch elastic net for most standard-size truck beds and describes it as intended to hold smaller items in place.
Rightline Gear sells a weatherproof cargo net intended to add coverage for bed cargo; the product is distinct from an open bungee-grid net.
Core MFG’s truck bed cargo net is listed as a dedicated pickup-bed accessory, separate from its cargo sports bag net.
02 Compare net formats and limitations
Published dimensions below are manufacturer specifications where available. Unspecified dimensions are deliberately not guessed.
| Cargo net | Published size / format | Best use | Primary limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gladiator Cargo Net GRN-100 | GRN-100 • 4.75 × 5.25 ft | Compact five-foot beds | A five-foot bed label does not prove anchor reach or adequate restraint for a particular load. |
| Gladiator Cargo Net SGN-100 | SGN-100 • 4.75 × 6 ft | Short-bed pickup coverage | Not automatically suitable for a five-foot compact bed or a six-and-a-half-foot standard bed. |
| Gladiator Cargo Net MGN-100 | MGN-100 • 6.75 × 8 ft | Standard-length beds | More material can be awkward for a small, flat load; anchor positioning still controls effectiveness. |
| Keeper Truck Cargo Net 06146 | SKU 06146 • 51 × 77 in | Elastic net for small cargo | Elastic containment should not be assumed to provide a certified working load limit for heavy equipment. |
| Rightline Gear Weatherproof Cargo Net | Weatherproof cargo-net configuration | Weather-exposed small gear | Do not equate “weatherproof” with a sealed waterproof enclosure or a rated heavy-load restraint. |
| Core Truck Bed Cargo Net | Core MFG truck bed cargo net | General-purpose bed containment | The retailer category listing alone does not establish precise dimensions, strength ratings or universal fit. |
03 Detailed recommendations and tradeoffs
Recommendations are based on documented product identity and intended use, not hands-on testing or claims of universal vehicle fit.
Gladiator Cargo Net GRN-100
Compact five-foot beds: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Gladiator lists the GRN-100 for compact five-foot truck beds. Its webbing layout makes it a candidate for irregular gear when the anchor geometry works.
Who it suits: Compact-pickup owners with bulky, varied-height loads who need a bed-spanning restraint system.
Ownership tradeoff: Measure the usable tie-down span, check the manufacturer’s anchoring directions and secure cargo independently when needed.
Check PriceGladiator Cargo Net SGN-100
Short-bed pickup coverage: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Gladiator identifies the SGN-100 as its net for 5.5-foot short beds, a different footprint from its compact-bed model.
Who it suits: Owners of 5.5-foot beds carrying uneven camping or household loads.
Ownership tradeoff: Confirm anchor placement and the tensioning method; do not treat net dimensions as a load rating.
Check PriceGladiator Cargo Net MGN-100
Standard-length beds: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Gladiator lists the MGN-100 for 6.5-foot standard truck beds. The larger net footprint can drape over taller cargo where suitable anchor points exist.
Who it suits: Owners of longer pickup beds who regularly haul bulky outdoor equipment.
Ownership tradeoff: Fold and stow the net dry, inspect webbing and fittings and follow the supplied installation instructions.
Check PriceKeeper Truck Cargo Net 06146
Elastic net for small cargo: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Keeper specifies a 51-by-77-inch elastic net for most standard-size truck beds and describes it as intended to hold smaller items in place.
Who it suits: Drivers seeking a simpler stretch-over net for light, low-profile loads.
Ownership tradeoff: Verify hooks and anchor geometry, inspect elastic condition and add rated restraints when the load requires them.
Check PriceRightline Gear Weatherproof Cargo Net
Weather-exposed small gear: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Rightline Gear sells a weatherproof cargo net intended to add coverage for bed cargo; the product is distinct from an open bungee-grid net.
Who it suits: Drivers who want to reduce exposure of suitable small gear while keeping it contained.
Ownership tradeoff: Confirm the exact product dimensions, attachment method and coverage before ordering; use independent tie-downs for demanding loads.
Check PriceCore Truck Bed Cargo Net
General-purpose bed containment: choose this format only when its footprint and attachment points suit the load.
What stands out: Core MFG’s truck bed cargo net is listed as a dedicated pickup-bed accessory, separate from its cargo sports bag net.
Who it suits: Owners who want a conventional cargo net rather than a hanging storage pouch.
Compare adjacent solutions
A net helps restrain suitable cargo but is not a substitute for properly rated straps and anchors.
- Truck bed extenders — tailgate and receiver-style extensions.
- Truck bed organizers — dividers, bins and modular storage.
- Truck bed racks — elevated cargo platforms and load limits.
- Truck bed protection and storage guide library — browse all 14 related guides.
Ownership tradeoff: Check the selected model’s dimensions, included hardware and manufacturer instructions before purchasing.
Check Price04 The cargo-net sizing worksheet
- Measure the usable bed: record the inside length and width, not just the advertised bed class.
- Mark your actual anchors: measure distances between the tie-down points you intend to use; avoid assuming every stake pocket is a rated anchor.
- Describe the load: low boxes, loose lightweight items and tall irregular gear need different coverage and tension.
- Check the net's relaxed dimensions: compare the published footprint with your anchor span and the height of the cargo. Do not guess at allowable stretch.
- Check the fastening hardware: confirm hooks, straps and attachment points are compatible and will not rub sharp edges.
- Separate containment from restraint: if the load could cause harm when it shifts or escapes, follow the truck manual and applicable cargo-securement rules with suitable rated restraints.
- Check operating clearance: make sure the net does not interfere with the tailgate latch, tonneau cover, bed rack or access to critical hardware.
Decision rule: if the product does not document the dimensions or attachment method needed for your bed, do not rely on a “universal” claim alone.
05 Mesh, webbing, elastic and weather-covering nets
Webbing nets are useful when a net must span and conform around uneven items; match their footprint and anchoring hardware carefully. Elastic grids can be convenient for light, low-profile cargo but elasticity is not itself a verified working-load limit. Weather-covering nets add surface coverage but should not be treated as watertight tarps unless the manufacturer explicitly supports that claim.
Do not confuse a bed-spanning cargo net with a tailgate net. Tailgate nets cover the tailgate opening and address a different problem. A hanging bag net also differs from a restraint net spread across cargo.
06 Frequently asked questions
Is a truck bed cargo net enough to secure heavy equipment?
Not automatically. A net’s shape and coverage do not establish a certified working load limit. Use appropriately rated restraints and vehicle tie-down points for consequential loads.
What size cargo net fits a five-and-a-half-foot bed?
Gladiator lists the SGN-100 for 5.5-foot short beds, but you must still check actual bed dimensions, anchor positions and the load’s height.
Will an elastic net fit every pickup?
No. Keeper describes its 51-by-77-inch net as fitting most standard-size beds, not every truck and every load. Confirm its attachment span.
Does a weatherproof cargo net keep everything dry?
Do not assume so. Weather protection depends on the exact material, coverage, seams and installation; use a purpose-built sealed container for moisture-sensitive gear.
Can I use a cargo net with a tonneau cover?
Sometimes, but only if the net, hooks and load height clear the cover’s rails, latches and operating path. Test clearance without forcing the cover.
Bottom line
Buy for your load and anchor geometry first. Gladiator’s size-specific nets make bed-length selection easier; Keeper offers a documented elastic alternative for smaller items. For loads with serious movement risk, add the rated securement system the cargo actually requires.