6 Best Jack Storage Brackets For Securing Gear In Moving Vans

Securing heavy recovery gear inside a van often feels like a losing battle against gravity and road vibration. A loose jack doesn’t just create an irritating rattle; it becomes a dangerous projectile during emergency maneuvers or sudden stops. Selecting the right mounting system is the critical difference between a streamlined adventure rig and a cluttered, hazardous workspace.

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Hi-Lift Jack Loc-Rac LR-200: Best for Security

The Hi-Lift Loc-Rac stands out because it prioritizes hardware-level security. Unlike simple strap-based systems, this unit features a steel-based locking mechanism that essentially immobilizes the jack against the mounting surface. If the van is frequently left in remote or urban areas, the ability to padlock the handle in place provides peace of mind that the gear will remain where it was left.

This system is ideal for builders who want a “set it and forget it” solution that doesn’t require constant tightening. Because it uses a specialized base and top clamp, it creates a rigid connection that resists the constant swaying motion of a van in transit. Expect to spend a bit more time on the initial alignment to ensure the holes match the jack perfectly, but the long-term payoff in silence is well worth the effort.

If security and absolute stillness are the primary requirements, this is the clear choice. It is not for the person who needs to access the jack every single day, as the locking mechanism is intentional and somewhat deliberate to operate. For a primary recovery tool meant for emergencies, however, the Loc-Rac is an industry standard for a reason.

Smittybilt Jack Mount: Most Versatile Option

Versatility is the hallmark of the Smittybilt Jack Mount, designed primarily for those who don’t want to drill permanent holes into their van body. It utilizes a clever bracket system that adapts to various mounting surfaces, making it a favorite for modular van builds where interior layouts might change after a year or two. The steel construction is robust enough to handle the weight of a heavy-duty jack without bending or fatigue over thousands of miles.

The adaptability of this mount shines when space is at a premium. It can be positioned vertically or horizontally, allowing users to tuck the jack into narrow gaps between cabinets or alongside the rear doors. This flexibility means no space in the van is truly off-limits for storage.

This mount is best for those who prioritize functional layout changes and need a bracket that can move with the build. While it lacks the integrated padlock feature of more security-focused units, it offers superior installation ease. It is the perfect middle-ground for the DIY van builder who values structural integrity over specialized anti-theft hardware.

ARB High Lift Jack Mount: Best for Roof Racks

When interior square footage is at capacity, the roof rack becomes the only logical home for bulky recovery gear. The ARB High Lift Jack Mount is engineered to interface seamlessly with specific roof rack systems, turning unused exterior space into a secure storage platform. By mounting the jack externally, the interior remains clear of grime, mud, and grease that inevitably accumulate after a trail recovery.

ARB is known for high-quality powder coating, which is essential for gear exposed to the elements. This mount keeps the jack high off the ground, reducing the risk of corrosion and making it easier to reach during a trailside repair. The mechanical design is straightforward and minimizes the number of moving parts that could fail due to rain or road salt.

This is the definitive choice for the overlander whose van is consistently packed to the ceiling. It is not for those who park in low-clearance garages or those who prefer to keep their gear out of the wind and weather. For the true road warrior, this mount is a reliable, professional-grade investment.

Reese Towpower Farm Jack Mount: Budget-Friendly

Sometimes the most effective solution is the most understated one. The Reese Towpower mount provides a no-nonsense way to fix a jack to a wall or steel member using standard bolt patterns. It lacks the bells and whistles of high-end specialized mounts, but it performs the fundamental job of holding weight securely at a fraction of the cost.

Installation requires a bit more foresight, as users will need to determine the best backing surface to prevent wall deformation. It works exceptionally well when bolted through a metal rib or a reinforced plywood wall section. Given its simple design, it is easily modified or reinforced with additional washers or steel backing plates.

This mount is the smartest pick for the budget-conscious builder who prefers to allocate funds toward solar or water systems. It is not a premium, quick-release solution, but it gets the gear off the floor and locked down securely. If the budget is tight and the DIY skills are solid, this is the most logical starting point.

Roll Bar Jack Mounts: For Interior Cages

Many professional van conversions incorporate structural safety cages or interior racking systems that mimic the utility of a roll bar. Using a roll bar-style jack mount on these internal pillars provides a high-strength anchor point that doesn’t rely on the van’s thin sheet metal skin. These clamps wrap tightly around circular tubing, ensuring that the heavy jack remains rigid even when bouncing over washboard gravel roads.

The strength-to-weight ratio of these mounts is excellent because they leverage the rigidity of the van’s existing structural members. By positioning the jack on an internal pillar, the gear is kept within the vehicle’s footprint while staying completely out of the way of cargo or living space. It is a clean, industrial look that appeals to those who enjoy a utilitarian aesthetic.

These are for the builder who is willing to integrate their storage directly into the structural skeleton of the van. It is less suited for stock panel vans without exposed framing, as the clamp mechanism requires a circular profile to work correctly. For the right build, this is the most professional way to manage heavy gear internally.

DIY L-Track Mounts: Best Customizable Setup

L-track is arguably the most versatile storage system in the modern van industry, and using it for jack storage is a masterclass in modularity. By installing a section of L-track on a wall or ceiling, builders can use specialized studs and custom brackets to create a bespoke mounting point for a jack. This setup allows for the jack to be moved, tilted, or removed entirely in seconds without tools.

The beauty of L-track lies in its ability to adapt as the needs of the van change. If the jack needs to be moved to make room for a new shelf, simply unclip the bracket and slide it to a new section of track. It is the ultimate “ever-evolving” storage solution for vans that serve both as daily drivers and long-term travel homes.

This is the recommendation for builders who refuse to be locked into one layout. It requires a bit more planning to ensure the L-track is mounted into structural framing, but the flexibility is unmatched. For the builder who loves customization and expects their needs to change, there is no better path.

Choosing Your Mounting Location in a Van

Deciding where to store a heavy jack is a balance between accessibility and safety. The rear doors are the most common location, as this provides quick access during a recovery scenario without needing to unpack the interior. However, ensure the doors are reinforced to handle the weight, as the extra mass can cause hinges to sag over time.

Interior wall mounting is a safer bet for keeping the gear clean and protected from the elements. Look for structural ribs in the van body to anchor the mounts, as these are the strongest points for handling dynamic loads. Avoid mounting the jack high on an interior wall unless it is exceptionally well-secured; a heavy object at head height can be dangerous during a collision.

Always prioritize center-of-gravity considerations. Keeping heavy gear lower in the van keeps the vehicle more stable during cornering and off-road maneuvers. Never compromise the structural integrity of the van’s frame by drilling into critical supports just to make a specific mounting spot work.

Installation Tips for a Rattle-Free Ride

Vibration is the silent killer of van builds, turning every loose bolt into a constant source of noise. When installing jack mounts, use rubber washers or gaskets between the bracket and the mounting surface to dampen micro-vibrations. This simple step prevents the metal-on-metal contact that makes gear sound like it is shaking the entire van apart.

For the jack itself, consider wrapping the base or the handle with a piece of old inner tube or specialized rubberized tape. This creates a friction fit that keeps the jack from clanking against the bracket. If a rattle persists, a quick check of the mounting bolts—tightened with a drop of medium-strength thread locker—usually solves the issue once and for all.

Ensure that all mounting hardware is oversized, using backing plates rather than just washers on thin wall panels. A jack is heavy, and the force exerted during a sudden stop is significantly higher than the static weight. Taking the extra time to distribute the load across a larger surface area will save the van’s interior finish from stress cracks.

Securing More Than Just Jacks With These Mounts

These mounting systems are rarely limited to just one tool. The same brackets that hold a high-lift jack can often be repurposed for shovels, axes, or heavy-duty recovery boards. Before committing to a specific bracket, check if it can accommodate the handle diameter of other long-handled tools.

When planning a multi-tool mount, consider the sequence of use. If the shovel is needed more often than the jack, ensure the mount is designed for a quick-release mechanism so the jack doesn’t have to be removed first. Efficient storage is all about creating a system where the most critical tools are the most accessible.

Think of the mounting bracket as a platform rather than a singular item. By adding a small bungee or a secondary strap, a simple jack mount can become a versatile utility rack. This approach minimizes the total amount of hardware needed in the van, keeping the aesthetic clean and the weight down.

Safety Check: Weight Vibration and Access

Safety in a van is not just about keeping things organized; it is about protecting occupants from flying gear. Every mount must be rated for significantly more than the weight of the jack to account for the G-forces involved in sudden braking or cornering. If a bracket feels flimsy during installation, it is almost certainly inadequate for long-term road use.

Periodically inspect the mounts during routine van maintenance. Check for signs of metal fatigue, stress fractures around the bolt holes, or loosening nuts. A few minutes spent with a wrench before a trip can prevent a catastrophic failure when the gear is needed most.

Finally, ensure the jack is always reachable without having to unload the entire van. If the jack is buried behind a bed or deep in a storage box, it is effectively useless in an emergency. The best storage system is one that guarantees the tool is ready for action, no matter how much gear is packed inside.

Properly securing your recovery gear is a hallmark of a professional-grade van build that values both form and function. By choosing a mounting system that fits your specific travel style and installation preferences, you transform a potential hazard into a reliable, integrated part of your vehicle’s infrastructure. Whether you opt for a heavy-duty bolt-on bracket or a versatile L-track setup, prioritize structural integrity and vibration dampening to ensure your gear remains secure through every mile of the journey.