Car racking includes all the accessories you need to transport luggage, sports equipment, and other cargo safely and conveniently. From roof racks to roof boxes, from bike racks to ski racks , here's a comprehensive guide to choosing the solution best suited to your needs.
1. Types of Car Carrier Systems 🚗📦
Roof bars
🔹 Basic structure for transport on the car roof.
🔹 They allow the installation of boxes, ski racks, bike racks and other accessories.
🔹 Available in universal or car model specific versions.
💡 Materials:
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Aluminum : Lightweight, aerodynamic and corrosion resistant.
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Steel : Cheaper, but heavier and less resistant to atmospheric agents.
Roof Box
🔹 Ideal for increasing load capacity on long journeys.
🔹 Variable capacity (from 300 to over 600 liters).
🔹 Safety lock and quick fastening systems.
🔹 Available in hard (safer) and soft (lighter and easier to store) versions.
💡 What to consider?
✔️ Capacity in liters and dimensions compatible with the car.
✔️ Opening type (lateral or bilateral).
✔️ Approval and weather resistance.
Car Bike Rack 🚴♂️
🔹 On the roof : Attaches to the roof racks, suitable for multiple bikes, but requires more effort to assemble.
🔹 Rear (on tow hook or tailgate) : More convenient for loading and unloading, excellent stability.
🔹 Indoor : Attaches to the inside of your trunk to protect your bike from the elements.
💡 Factors to consider:
✔️ Number of bikes to transport.
✔️ Attachment type and vehicle compatibility.
✔️ Fixing system to avoid scratches and damage to the bike.
Ski and Snowboard Rack 🎿🏂
🔹 Installed on roof bars or magnetically directly on the roof.
🔹 They can carry 2 to 6 pairs of skis or snowboards.
🔹 Some models have an anti-theft lock for added security.
💡 Types:
✔️ With clamp : Practical and safe, with easy opening.
✔️ Ski Box : Protects skis and snowboards from snow and rain.
✔️ Magnetic : Attaches directly to the roof without the need for bars, easy to install.
Roof Racks and Baskets
🔹 Open structure for carrying bulky items (e.g. suitcases, camping equipment).
🔹 Greater flexibility than roof boxes.
🔹 They require tie-down straps to stabilize the load.
💡 Available materials:
✔️ Galvanized Steel : Strong yet heavy.
✔️ Aluminum : Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
✔️ Reinforced plastic : Cheaper and lighter.
Rear and Tow Bar Luggage Rack
🔹 Alternative to roof boxes, more accessible and with less aerodynamic impact.
🔹 Perfect for vehicles with a towbar.
🔹 Models with rigid structure or waterproof soft bag .
💡 Advantages compared to the roof box:
✔️ Easy loading and unloading.
✔️ Less air resistance (less fuel consumption).
✔️ Suitable for carrying heavy objects.
2. How to Choose the Right Load Bearing System?
🔍 Questions to ask before purchasing:
✅ How much extra space do I need? Roof boxes for bulky luggage, ski racks for winter gear, bike racks for two-wheelers.
✅ What type of car do I have? Not all systems are compatible with all cars.
✅ How often will I use it? For occasional use, simpler solutions like magnetic ski racks or soft boxes are better.
✅ What is the maximum weight that can be transported? Each car has a weight limit for roof cargo (see the owner's manual).
✅ Safety and approval : Make sure the product is approved according to European regulations (e.g. ISO/PAS 11154 for roof boxes).
3. Assembly and Safety Tips
🔧 Correct assembly: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and check stability before setting off.
🚨 Balanced Load: Distribute the weight evenly to avoid imbalances.
⛽ Aerodynamics: A roof box or bulky cargo increases fuel consumption.
🔒 Security and anti-theft: Use locks and locking systems to protect your luggage.
📏 Vehicle height: With a box or roof load, be careful in parking spaces with limited height.
Conclusion
The right car rack system makes every trip more comfortable, increasing cargo capacity without sacrificing interior space. Whether you need a roof box, bike rack, ski rack, or rear cargo rack , the choice depends on your transportation needs and compatibility with your vehicle. 🚗📦
