1994 Mercury Villager Truck Bed Slides

Things to Consider when Choosing a Truck Bed Slide

Truck bed slides are a handy addition to any pickup, significantly easing cargo loading and unloading. However, there are several brands, models, and sizes on the market. To ease your decision, consider the following factors.

Bed Size

How large is your pickup’s bed? And how much of the bed’s cargo space would you like the slide to take up? While bed slides come in several sizes, most consumers will benefit from the largest possible bed slide they can fit into their pickup’s bed (i.e., an 8-ft. slide for an 8-ft. bed, a 6-ft. slide for a 6-ft. bed, and so on). Regardless of your preference, measure your pickup’s bed before placing an order to ensure a perfect fit.

Weight Capacity

Regarding weight capacity, consider the limits of the bed slide and your pickup’s payload capacity. While it’s nice to have a bed slide with a high weight capacity, you’ll have to consider the weight of the slide compared to your pickup’s payload. After all, there’s no point in having a bed slide with a 2,000-lb. capacity if your truck can only handle 1,000 pounds.

Material

Depending on your needs, expectations, and climate, you may have preferences regarding your bed slide’s construction. A lightweight aluminum bed slide may be best for half-ton or mid-size pickups, while rugged steel constructions may better suit heavy-duty trucks.

Security Features 

While some bed slides are low-tech, others feature various security and safety features like automatic locks, side rails, and non-skid decking. Before placing an order, determine which features are vital to you and verify that your selected bed slide includes them.

Specialty Features

While all bed slides serve a similar purpose, some aren’t merely sliding alloy panels retrofitted into a pickup’s bed. Some models offer unique specialty features to refine operation, including the DECKED Truck Bed Storage System and the Cargo Ease Cargo Ramps.

DECKED Truck Bed Storage System

The DECKED system isn’t your average cargo slide. Instead, it consists of a robust platform with two integrated, lockable storage drawers, offering enhanced cargo space and security. 

Why we love it:

• 100-percent recycled high-density polyethylene and steel construction

• Considerable payload capacity, up to 2,000 pounds

• Attaches to existing factory tie-downs

• Effortless operation via sealed ball-bearing rollers

• Built-in bottle opener, conversion guide, and ruler

• Built in the USA

• Limited lifetime warranty

Cargo Ease Cargo Ramps

Cargo Ease Cargo Ramps are a heavy-duty add-on for Cargo Ease Cargo Slide systems, securing to the cargo slide to prevent ramp shifting and sliding. 

Why we love it: 

• 1,800-lb. capacity

• Includes cargo slide and loading ramps

• 3 locking positions

• Steel frames are powder-coated

• ¾-in. ultra-plywood deck with polyethylene coating

• 8 sealed roller bearings for smooth movement

• Features 4-in. laser cut steel side rails and spring-release T-handle

Top Truck Bed Slide Brands

At Realtruck, we carry all of the top cargo slide brands, including: 

• CargoGlide: Commercial-grade bed slides featuring rugged steel frames, TPO-coated plywood decks, and aluminum rails to keep cargo safe and secure.  

• Bedslide: Whether you’re a trade worker or weekend warrior, Bedslide’s premium cargo slides are up to the task.

• DECKED: Durable, composite drawer systems ideal for contractors, trades workers, frequent campers, and others who work from their pickups. With lockable drawers, a 2,000-lb. weight capacity, and built-in tie-downs, the DECKED bed system is one of the leading bed slides on the market.

Maintaining Your Truck Bed Slide

While most truck bed slides feature sealed bearings, corrosion-resistant frames, and maintenance-free decks, it’s still wise to routinely clean and inspect the moving parts for damage/excess dirt and debris. Every so often, inspect the rails for excess dirt, grease, or corrosion, clear any debris wedged beneath the deck, and inspect moving parts for any excessive wear. 

Truck Bed Slide FAQs

How much weight can a truck bed slide carry? 

Depending on the brand and model, bed slide cargo capacities can vary—however, most can carry between 1,000–2,000 pounds. 

How long does a truck bed slide last? 

While this question is highly subjective, a cargo slide that’s used responsibly and according to the manufacturer's instructions should last indefinitely. 

How difficult is installing a truck bed slide? 

While not exceptionally challenging, installing a truck bed slide typically requires drilling holes into the bed floor. Additionally, due to the bed slide's sizable dimensions and heavy weight, it’s best to have an extra set of hands.