How to Carry a Canoe on Top of a Truck With a Camper Shell

Strapping a canoe to the top of a truck is easier with a camper shell than it is without one. The camper shell provides an even base and many shells come with tie-downs for extra security. Securing the canoe on the truck is an easy process but you must choose secure anchor points and cinch the straps tight. The properly secured canoe will not shift while driving, but the upside-down position does create major drag on the vehicle.

Things You'll Need

  • Foam blocks or roof rack
  • Ratchet straps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place several foam blocks on top of the camper shell if the truck does not have a rack. Towels also work as a cushion between the canoe and the roof. The foam or towels are primarily to protect the paint, so may not be necessary on old trucks with flaked paint.

    • 2

      Load the canoe on the truck in an upside-down position. Adjust the canoe's position so one tip is over the hood of the car and the other is over the back of the camper shell. Hook one end of a ratchet strap to each tip of the canoe. Hook the opposite end to a stable point on the frame. Towing loops on the front and the tow bar on the rear are common anchor points.

    • 3

      Tighten the ratchet straps until both are snug. Continue tightening until the canoe is visibly placing pressure on the foam blocks. The canoe is stable and prepared for transport at this point.

    • 4

      Secure each end of a third ratchet strap to a tie-down for extra security. Place the strap directly over the middle of the canoe. Tighten the strap until firm pressure is placed on the canoe.