At Upfit Supply, we’ve unboxed our fair share of gear, but this one had us especially excited. Today, we’re walking you through the unboxing of the Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder, made specifically for the RAM ProMaster High Roof model. Designed to work in tandem with the Vantech H2.1 roof rack system, this side-mounted ladder offers rugged functionality, sleek design, and easy roof access without needing to climb onto your bumper or rear door.

Whether you’re in construction, telecom, HVAC, or simply loading up gear for weekend adventures, having reliable roof access is a must. Let’s get into what makes this Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder a smart investment for RAM ProMaster owners.

First Impressions: Unboxing Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder

The first thing we noticed when cracking open the packaging was how secure everything was. Vantech doesn’t mess around when it comes to shipping protection. Inside the main box, components are wrapped, padded, and nested into sub-packaged units. This ensures that nothing shifts during transit, a common problem with other heavy-duty accessories.

Even better, it ships with a parts list and install guide right up top—a small but vital inclusion. It helps make sure you’ve got everything you need before installation begins.

Lightweight but Durable: The Ladder Frame and Rungs

As we removed and unwrapped each component, it quickly became clear: this is an all-aluminum ladder from top to bottom. That means you get maximum strength without the weight—a huge advantage on a high-roof van.

Included in the kit:

  • Two one-piece aluminum ladder rails
  • Ten extruded aluminum steps, including a few curved models for ergonomic mounting
  • All mounting brackets and end caps
  • Complete stainless steel hardware kit

Every step is threaded at the ends for easy, secure installation. The steps have a light texture for grip, and the curvature on some adds extra comfort and foot control.

Mounting System: How It Attaches to the Van

What sets this Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder apart is its integration with the H2.1 Roof Rack system. This isn’t a standalone ladder; it’s designed to work with the rack.

  • Top Mount: Brackets slide into the H2.1 roof rack channels.
  • Bottom Mount: Requires drilling into the lower frame or underside edge of the van.

This combination creates a stable, low-profile ladder that feels like part of the vehicle. Plus, all brackets are made from anodized black aluminum, matching the H2.1 rack for a consistent, professional look.

Unpacking the Brackets and Hardware

Next up in the unboxing: hardware and support brackets. Vantech includes:

  • Four ladder-to-rack connection brackets
  • Four side-support mounting brackets
  • End caps for both ladder rails
  • Dual-bagged stainless hardware kit, including lock washers, nuts, bolts, and slider bolts

We really appreciated the dual-bagged hardware—it ensures nothing gets lost and keeps small parts from spilling during unboxing. Everything is stainless steel to prevent corrosion and maintain strength long-term.

Details That Stand Out

Even for a relatively straightforward product like a van ladder, Vantech goes above and beyond in design and usability.

Here are a few features we think deserve to be highlighted:

  • All-aluminum construction: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and built to last
  • Modular install: Works with the H2.1 roof rack—not against it
  • Pre-threaded step mounts: Speeds up installation and keeps assembly tight
  • Curved top steps: Improves comfort and usability
  • Textured grip: Increases safety during wet or icy conditions
  • Anodized black finish: Clean, professional appearance that resists weathering

Installation Notes

While this isn’t a full install guide, here’s a quick preview:

  1. Verify parts using the included instructions.
  2. Attach ladder steps to the side rails.
  3. Mount top brackets into the H2.1 rack’s upper channel.
  4. Position ladder and secure lower brackets—this is where you’ll need to drill.
  5. Double-check all bolt connections for tightness and alignment.

We’ll be posting a full installation video soon to walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why Choose the Vantech H2.1 Side Access Ladder?

There are plenty of ways to get on top of your RAM ProMaster—but few are as secure, clean-looking, or integrated as this option. Here’s why we like it:

  • Purpose-built for high-roof ProMaster vans
  • Works seamlessly with the H2.1 rack system
  • Strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant
  • Fast to install with common tools
  • Looks factory-installed when complete

Whether you’re hauling ladders, loading kayaks, or installing solar panels, this ladder gives you safe, easy access to your roof gear—without relying on rear door steps or clumsy exterior bolt-ons.

Final Thoughts on Unboxing the Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder

This isn’t just another aftermarket ladder. The Vantech H2.1 Side Access Van Ladder is a smart, sleek, and functional upgrade for RAM ProMaster owners already running the H2.1 rack system. With solid construction, thoughtful packaging, and an easy install process, it’s one of the best side-mounted ladder systems we’ve seen.

If you’re looking to upfit your van for work, adventure, or anything in between, you’ll definitely want to check this ladder unbox video on Youtube.. You can shop it directly from our site here.

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