Roof box – What you gotta watch out for that!

09. Jan 2019 | Industry + More

The roof box really is a great invention, isn’t it? After all, this useful accessory offers a lot of extra storage space on top. All right, so it’s actually not that much. Nonetheless, it isn’t just the interior of the car that dictates how much luggage to take on trips away. And a roof box like this also provides ample space for bulky objects such as skis alongside hundreds of litres of added stowage volume. This increases the appeal of such roof boxes, especially in winter. Still, drivers ought to take note of a few things.

What you should bear in mind before buying a roof box

The decision starts with choosing the appropriate system. After all, not all roof-box fastening systems will be compatible with the vehicle in question. You should ensure that the box is compatible with the respective roof rack, and that the roof rack also fits your car. If in doubt, you should consult your retailer.

Furthermore, the fully loaded roof box is not permitted to exceed the approved roof load. This approved roof load can be found in the manual for your car: it is usually between 75 and 100 kilograms for most passenger cars.

You should also keep the maximum dimensions of the roof box in mind. The roof box should not extend beyond the rear end of the car, nor should it block the boot. It also shouldn’t protrude at the front so as to ensure the proper aerodynamic conditions. Anyone who wants to transport bulky objects such as skis ought to ensure that the roof box is large enough for these.

 

You should also keep the maximum dimensions of the roof box in mind. The roof box should not extend beyond the rear end of the car, nor should it block the boot. It also shouldn’t protrude at the front so as to ensure the proper aerodynamic conditions. Anyone who wants to transport bulky objects such as skis ought to ensure that the roof box is large enough for these.

Other important criteria to consider:

  • Is the roof box lockable?
  • Does the box close correctly?
  • Are the contents protected against water?
  • Is the manufacturing quality of the roof box satisfactory?
  • Are there fastening fixtures for securing the load?

The roof box in action

Generally speaking: the more luggage is transported, the higher the fuel consumption will be. And the larger the roof box, the higher the air resistance will be, which also has an effect on fuel consumption. After letting talented designers work their magic, roof-mounted luggage carriers not only look stylish these days; they are also conceived with aerodynamics in mind.

Do not leave mounting the box until just before departure. Take your time to mount the rack system and the box itself. After all, an improperly mounted roof box can loosen and become a dangerous projectile when the vehicle brakes. The step-by-step mounting instructions will inform you on how to proceed correctly and avoid making mistakes.

When loading, you should ensure that heavy objects are positioned in the centre of the roof box, with lighter ones towards the front and rear. Suitable fastening fixtures should be used to fix items of luggage in place and thereby prevent them from sliding around.

Incidentally, very heavy items of luggage ought not to be stowed in the roof box at all for safety reasons. It’s better to stow these immediately behind the rear seats in the car.