The Differences Between E Track Rails and A Track Rails
Published on 06/01/25
Securing cargo inside enclosed trailers can be a challenging task. Still, with the right tools for the job, it can be extremely easy and effective, whether you are a professional trucker or an individual moving personal items.
Two cargo control systems commonly used for securing cargo inside enclosed trailers are E Track Rails and A-Track Rails. These systems offer adaptable anchor securement points along the walls or floor of the trailer or moving van. This combination allows for securing cargo from small boxes or heavy equipment from the ideal location and angle.
While both rail systems are visually similar and have comparable functions, several key differences make each rail system unique. Let’s begin with the differences between each rail.
What Is E-Track?
E-track has become the industry standard for cargo control and has been widely used for the last several decades in the transportation industry. It consists of high-strength 12-gauge steel rails with slots located every 2 inches, providing multiple tie-down securement anchor points along the rail.
One of the biggest reasons behind the popularity is the flexibility it offers from load to load, where the cargo may not always be the same size or be secured in the same location. E-Track rails can also be installed either horizontally or vertically on the walls or floors of the trailer making it ideal for dry vans, enclosed trailers, moving vans, and even cargo vans.
The Benefits of E-Track Rail Systems
One of the major benefits of e-track is the flexibility it offers operators to optimize the trailer setup exactly how they want it to transport the types of cargo being moved. E Track also supports a wide range of e track accessories such as e track straps, e track bars, rope tie-offs, dolly straps, and more.
These accessories help to make either your securing or organizing flow better throughout the trailer. There are even e-track accessories that can be used to hold extension power cables, air hoses, and other tie-down straps.
E-Track rails are constructed from 12-gauge steel with a minimum yield of 50,000 lbs PSI and are designed to safely support heavy loads by utilizing the strength of the trailer’s walls and flooring. However, E-Track rails cannot be rated using either a breaking strength or working load limit rating.
This is due to their strength being solely dependent on the walls or flooring to which they are attached, which can vary significantly based on the vehicle or trailer manufacturer. Instead, refer to your owner’s manual to understand the limitations and recommendations for the best way to install e-track.
E-Track works great for securing cargo such as:
• Vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, side by sides, lawnmowers, and more.
• Palletized cargo using e track ratchet straps or cam buckle straps.
• Furniture or boxes during a move.
• Landscaping trailers to secure lawn equipment and to stay better organized.
• Multi-tiered cargo setups using e track load bars to create additional levels.
What Is A-Track?
A-Track is a newer rail system that closely resembles E-Track. It’s made from the same 12-gauge steel and provides similar functionality for securing cargo. However, A-Track is less common and is mainly found in newer trailers. The main difference between A-Track and E-Track lies in the slot design which may or may not be compatible with all E-Track Accessories.
As A-Track rails are extremely similar to e-track rails, they can also be installed either horizontally or vertically inside trailers or along the flooring. If you have any questions, our experts are standing by and here to help you decide which option to go with or provide you with a quote. You can reach our cargo control experts by calling us at 800-444-0956 or using our Contact Us page via email located at the top of our website.
Choosing Between E-Track and A-Track Rail Systems
One of the biggest benefits of using A-Track rails is a newer and more modern design which is often compatible with e-track straps, e-track bars, and e-track accessories. While not all manufacturers’ e-track accessories are compatible, Trucking Depot has E-Track fittings that are compatible with E-Track, F-Track, and A-Track rail systems.
This is ideal for added flexibility for professional moving fleets or professional truckers who secure cargo in different trailers or set up configurations. However, because A-Track rails are newer, less commonly available, and may have compatibility issues with certain manufacturers’ e-track products, most individuals and professionals prefer standard e-track rail systems.
When choosing between these two systems, consider the most common type of cargo you will be transporting, how your trailer is set up, and the type of accessories you intend to use. If you primarily use E-Track fittings or already own E-Track accessories, we recommend choosing E-Track rails, since many accessories are not compatible with A-Track systems.
If you have any questions or need help, our experts are standing by and can be reached by calling 800-444-0956 or by using our Contact Us page at the top of the website. We look forward to helping you find exactly what you need.
