There’s a universal feeling among truck owners—a mix of pride in the vehicle’s capability and a nagging anxiety about its biggest feature: the open bed. I remember a recent trip to the hardware store, loading up on lumber and bags of concrete for a weekend project. The sky was a brilliant, cloudless blue. Or so I thought. Halfway home, the heavens opened up in a torrential downpour. By the time I pulled into my driveway, the paper bags of concrete were a soggy, hardening mess. It was a frustrating, costly, and entirely avoidable experience. An open truck bed is an invitation for trouble, whether it’s a sudden storm, blowing debris on the highway, or the prying eyes of opportunistic thieves. Securing your cargo isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting your investments, your tools, and your peace of mind. This is where a quality tonneau cover becomes less of a luxury and more of an essential piece of equipment.
- Fits 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Ford F-150 5' 7" Bed (67.1")
- BETTER FIT | Relentlessly tight fit prevents edges from curling with exclusive spring-loaded SureTension Control System that requires no manual adjustments
What to Consider Before Buying a Truck Bed Cover
A tonneau cover is more than just a piece of vinyl; it’s a key solution for transforming your truck’s utility. It instantly adds a secure, weatherproof trunk to your vehicle, protecting everything from groceries and luggage to expensive tools and equipment. The primary benefits are threefold: security, weather protection, and even improved aerodynamics, which can lead to a modest improvement in fuel economy. By enclosing the bed, you create a locked space (when paired with a locking tailgate) that deters theft and keeps your belongings out of sight and out of the elements. It turns your do-everything truck into a truly versatile machine, ready for work commutes, family road trips, and rugged job sites alike.
The ideal customer for a soft roll-up cover like the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover is a practical truck owner who values flexibility, ease of access, and affordability. If you frequently haul large or awkwardly shaped items—like motorcycles, appliances, or tall furniture—the ability to roll the cover completely out of the way in seconds is a massive advantage. This design offers 100% bed access without needing to remove the entire unit. However, it might not be the best fit for those whose absolute top priority is security. While it keeps things out of sight, a determined thief could theoretically cut through the vinyl. For those needing maximum protection, a hard-folding or retractable aluminum cover, like the BAKFlip MX4, might be a more suitable, albeit more expensive, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fitment & Vehicle Specifics: This is non-negotiable. A tonneau cover must be precisely matched to your truck’s year, make, model, and bed length. The model we’re reviewing is specifically for the 2015-2025 Ford F-150 with the 5′ 7″ bed. An ill-fitting cover will leak, flap in the wind, and fail to provide adequate security. Always double-check your truck’s specifications before purchasing.
- Cover Type & Bed Access: How will you use your truck bed? Soft roll-up covers offer full bed access. Soft and hard folding covers offer partial access unless fully removed. Retractable covers slide into a canister at the bulkhead, taking up a small amount of bed space. Choose the style that best complements your hauling needs.
- Materials & Durability: Soft covers typically use industrial-grade, tear-resistant vinyl, often with a textured finish to resist UV fading. Hard covers use materials like aluminum or fiberglass-reinforced polymer for superior impact resistance and security. Consider your climate—if you face heavy snow, ensure the cover has strong cross-member bows for support, a key feature of the TruXport.
- Ease of Use & Installation: Most modern tonneau covers, including the TruXport, feature no-drill, clamp-on installations that can be completed in under an hour with basic hand tools. Look for user-friendly latching systems. The TruXport’s dual paddle latches, which allow you to open the cover from either side of the truck, are a prime example of thoughtful, convenient design.
Finding the right balance of price, features, and durability is key to making a smart purchase that will serve you and your truck for years to come.
While the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- Fitment - Compatible with 1982-1993 Chevy S10 GMC S15 Fleetside 6Ft Bed
First Impressions: Smart Engineering in a Simple Package
Unboxing the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover, the first thing we noticed was its straightforward, no-fuss design. There aren’t a hundred small pieces to sort through. You get the pre-assembled vinyl cover and rail unit, two side rails, and a small box of hardware containing six sturdy clamps. The RTxVinyl material immediately feels substantial; it has a pleasant leather-grain texture that looks far more premium than a simple glossy vinyl. It feels thick and tear-resistant, inspiring confidence right out of the box. The aluminum frame components are lightweight yet rigid, making the parts easy to handle during installation. Compared to heavy hard-folding covers, maneuvering the TruXport’s components into place is a one-person job. The instructions are clear and concise, a sentiment echoed by many users who found the process surprisingly simple. It’s clear that TruXedo has refined this product over the years to be as user-friendly as possible, from unboxing to final adjustments. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of this user-friendly approach.
What We Like
- Extremely fast and simple no-drill installation, often under 30 minutes.
- Excellent weather resistance keeps the bed dry in heavy rain and car washes.
- Pre-set tension control and Velcro system keep the cover tight and prevent flapping.
- Affordable price point offers incredible value and functionality.
- Provides 100% bed access by rolling up neatly to the cab.
Potential Drawbacks
- Some reports of inconsistent stitching and minor fit-and-finish issues.
- Vinyl material offers less security against theft than a hard cover.
A Deep Dive into the TruXedo TruXport’s Real-World Performance
A tonneau cover can look great in a picture, but its true worth is only revealed on the road, through rainstorms, and under the strain of daily use. We put the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover through its paces on our 2022 Ford F-150 to see if its performance matched its promises. We focused on the three aspects that matter most to truck owners: installation and fit, weather protection and daily operation, and long-term material durability.
Installation and Fitment: A True 30-Minute Upgrade?
TruXedo claims a quick and easy installation, and we were determined to test that. Laying out the pieces on the garage floor, the simplicity of the system was immediately apparent. The process involves attaching the side rails to the truck bed using three C-clamps per side. No drilling, no permanent modifications—a huge plus for anyone with a new or leased truck. The instructions were well-illustrated and easy to follow. We started the timer and got to work. Placing the front header rail against the bulkhead and then clamping on the side rails took less than 15 minutes. The key, we found, is not to tighten the clamps fully at first. This allows for small adjustments to ensure the rails are perfectly square and level.
Once the rails were in place, we unrolled the cover. The integrated cross-bows fell neatly into place within the rails, and the entire assembly stretched towards the tailgate. This is the moment of truth for fitment. The dual paddle latches clicked securely into the rails, and we closed the tailgate. The fit was snug and perfectly aligned. After a final check, we went back and fully tightened the six clamps with a 1/2″ socket. Total time from opening the box to a fully installed cover: 28 minutes. This confirms the reports from numerous users, one of whom noted, “I was able to complete the installation in about 30-35 minutes… I was impressed with the engineering that went into this product.” While some users have reported minor fitment issues or the need for extra weather stripping on trucks without bed liners, our experience with the F-150’s factory bed rail caps was flawless. The cover sits about 1.5 inches above the rails, creating a clean, low-profile look that complements the truck’s lines. The ease of installation is a major selling point and it genuinely lives up to the hype.
Everyday Usability and All-Weather Protection
A tonneau cover you have to fight with is one you won’t use. The TruXport excels in this area. To open it, you simply drop the tailgate and pull one of the two paddle latches at the rear of the cover. This single-handed operation from either side of the truck is incredibly convenient. The cover releases and you can begin rolling it toward the cab. The RTxGrip hook-and-loop (Velcro) system holds the sides down tightly but releases with a satisfying tear as you roll. The integrated cross-bows roll up right along with the vinyl, so there are no loose parts to manage. At the cab, two cab buckles secure the rolled-up cover for safe driving with the bed open.
But how does it handle weather? This is where the SureTension Control System comes into play. These spring-loaded mechanisms are pre-set at the factory to keep the vinyl taut in all temperatures, preventing sagging in the summer heat or over-tightening in the cold. On the highway at 75 mph, we observed zero flapping or wind noise—the cover remained drum-tight. To test its water resistance, we took it through a high-pressure automatic car wash and then drove through a severe thunderstorm. After both tests, we opened the tailgate to find a virtually bone-dry bed. A few stray drops were visible near the tailgate corners, a common spot for minor water ingress on any tonneau cover, but not enough to damage any cargo. Our findings are strongly supported by a user who edited their review after two months, stating, “it’s been the rainy season ever since I got it and there has not been a single drop that has gotten inside the bed.” For protecting gear from the elements, the TruXport performs exceptionally well, far exceeding expectations for its price point.
Material Quality and Long-Term Durability
Affordability can sometimes mean a compromise in quality, so we paid close attention to the materials and construction of the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover. The RTxVinyl is the star of the show. It’s a heavy-duty, leather-grain fabric that not only looks fantastic but is designed to withstand the elements. It resists UV rays to prevent fading and cracking, a common failure point on cheaper vinyl covers. After several weeks of testing in the hot sun, the matte black finish looked as good as new. The stitching along the edges was uniform and tight on our unit, though we did note one user review that mentioned disappointment with the stitching quality on their specific cover, which is something to be aware of.
The frame and hardware are equally important. The anodized aluminum rails and bows are resistant to corrosion, and the heavy-duty clamps provide a secure grip without damaging the truck’s paint. A key feature for durability, especially in northern climates, is the integrated cross-bows. These bows provide crucial support under the weight of heavy snow, preventing the vinyl from stretching or tearing. While one user expressed concern about water pooling and wished the bows were more crowned, we found they did an adequate job of shedding rain during our tests. Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty, TruXedo clearly stands behind the product’s construction. For a truck owner looking for a reliable cover that will endure the rigors of daily use for years, the TruXport’s materials and build quality offer outstanding, long-lasting value that you can explore further and verify online.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we dug into a wide range of user feedback to see how our experience compared. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the vast majority of owners praising the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover for its incredible value and ease of installation. One owner summed it up perfectly: “This product has exceeded my expectations in multiple ways, making it a great functional addition to my F-150 truck at a great value… the installation process was pretty straight forward.” Another highlighted its performance, saying, “Awesome cover… The canvas top is super durable and don’t fade and crack like the cheap vinyl ones… the bed of my truck stays extremely dry.”
However, no product is perfect, and it’s important to consider the critical feedback as well. A small number of users have pointed out minor quality control issues. One user was “a little disappointed in the quality of the stitching… the misalignment of the frame once closed and the wrinkles.” This suggests that while the design is solid, there can be some manufacturing variance. Another common point, though more of a trade-off than a flaw, is the latch system. While we found it convenient, one user noted, “It would be nice to have pull strings for the latch release though.” This feedback is valuable, painting a realistic picture of an excellent entry-level cover that delivers on its core promises but may lack some of the refined finishing touches of its more expensive counterparts.
How Does the TruXedo TruXport Compare to the Competition?
The tonneau cover market is crowded, but the TruXport holds a strong position. To give you a clearer picture, we’ve compared it to three popular alternatives, each offering a different set of features and catering to a different type of truck owner.
1. Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover 5’1″ Bed
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- DESIGN - US patented. Cover is dual-coated and made out of heavy duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl, with built-in horizontal crossbars that offer support when...
The Tyger Auto T1 is a direct competitor to the TruXport, operating in the same budget-friendly, soft roll-up category. Both offer a clamp-on, no-drill installation and a low-profile design. The primary difference often comes down to the latching system and tension controls. The Tyger T1 uses a similar tailgate latch system and Velcro sides. For a buyer on a tight budget, the Tyger is a very compelling alternative and is often one of the most popular choices online. However, we found the TruXport’s pre-set SureTension system to be a slightly more refined feature, providing a consistently taut fit without the need for manual adjustments, which can be a deciding factor for those who want a “set it and forget it” solution.
2. RealTruck BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover
- Fits 2019 - 2024 Chevy/GMC Silverado/Sierra, w/ MultiPro/Flex tailgate (Will not fit Carbon Pro Bed) 5' 10" Bed (69.9")
- Made in the USA with Global Materials
The BAKFlip MX4 represents a significant step up in both price and security. This is a hard-folding cover made from heavy-duty aluminum panels with a premium matte black finish. Its primary advantage is security; when the tailgate is locked, the bed is secured like a vault, impervious to knife cuts. It also sits flush with the bed rails for an ultra-sleek, factory-installed look. The trade-off is cost and a slight reduction in bed access, as the folded panels rest against the cab’s rear window, blocking the view. The MX4 is for the truck owner who prioritizes maximum security and a premium aesthetic and is willing to invest significantly more to get it.
3. Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover
- Fits 2015 - 2020 Ford F-150 (incl. Raptor) 5' 7" Bed (67.1")
- MADE IN THE USA | made in the USA with globally sourced materials and supported by our USA-based customer service team!
The Gator ETX is another strong contender in the soft roll-up market, very similar in design and function to the TruXport. It features a heavy-duty vinyl top, a simple clamp-on installation, and an easy-to-use trigger latch at the rear. Like the TruXport, it offers full bed access and a reliable seal against the weather. When comparing the two, the decision often comes down to brand preference, warranty (the Gator ETX also offers a strong warranty), and subtle design cues. The TruXport’s leather-grain vinyl gives it a slightly more premium look in our opinion, but the Gator ETX is a fantastic alternative that provides nearly identical functionality and value for the price.
The Final Verdict: Is the TruXedo TruXport Right for Your F-150?
After weeks of hands-on testing, driving through storms, and loading and unloading cargo, our conclusion is clear: the RealTruck TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Cover offers one of the best combinations of value, functionality, and quality on the market today. It’s not the most secure cover available—for that, you’ll need a hard-paneled option—but that’s not its mission. Its purpose is to provide an affordable, incredibly easy-to-use, and highly effective barrier against the elements, and it succeeds on all fronts. The installation is genuinely effortless, the tensioning system keeps the cover looking sharp and performing silently on the highway, and the weather sealing is more than a match for heavy rain.
We recommend the TruXport without hesitation to any Ford F-150 owner who wants to protect their cargo, improve the look of their truck, and gain massive utility without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect solution for the daily driver, the weekend warrior, and the practical-minded truck enthusiast. If you’re ready to transform your open truck bed into a secure and versatile cargo space, this cover delivers performance that far outweighs its modest price tag. You can check the latest price and secure this excellent upgrade for your truck today.
Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API