Are you planning to take the whole family on a camping trip? Or maybe you’re moving soon? When you need to haul more cargo than your car can store, you can secure cargo on the roof of your car and avoid attaching a trailer or making multiple trips. Learn how to properly store cargo on the roof of your car.
Materials Needed
Before placing cargo on your car’s roof, make sure you have the proper materials to keep the items secure and safe. First, verify whether your vehicle has a roof rack. A roof rack acts as a support when securing your load. Many crossover vehicles and SUVs are equipped with the side and cross rails of a roof rack, but you can buy and install roof rack bars if your vehicle doesn’t have them. Roof racks come in several sizes, so read carefully to know whether a particular set of racks is compatible with your vehicle.
Next, make sure you have several tie-down cords or straps. While you can use ropes to secure your cargo, you’ll need to use specific knots. If you’re familiar with knots, go ahead and use rope. However, you should also consider using ratchet straps or cam straps along with the rope. These tie-down straps are easy to use and stay snug despite outside forces and vibrations. You can use a bungee cord to attach items together, but do not use a bungee cord by itself to secure your load to the roof rack.
Another tie-down material you should use is netting or a waterproof tarp. These items act as another safeguard to keep your items secure and protected. The tarp is especially useful if you might encounter precipitation on your drive.
Pack the Cargo
Next, pack your cargo in such a way that it aligns with the aerodynamics of your vehicle. First, place smaller items together in a tub or suitcase. Then, you can begin organizing the cargo on the roof of your car. Place heavier items on top of lighter items to keep them in place, and all items should stay centered between the doors.
Secure the Cargo
After packing the cargo on top of the car, use your tie-down materials to secure the load. The straps and cords should go front to back and side to side for optimal security. For even more security, strap the load to the car through the doors. If your cargo extends beyond the front or rear windshield, use the straps to secure the load to the front and rear of the car to reduce updraft.
Safe driving practices while hauling a load on your roof include driving in the right lane, staying under the speed limit, and checking the load about five to 10 minutes into your journey and frequently throughout to ensure that everything is still secure,
With the right materials and proper packing and securing techniques, you can safely store cargo on the roof of your car for your next adventure.
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